If you may be facing a DUI charge in the near future, you should definitely be aware of the consequences that come with that. In the state of Maryland, a DUI conviction results in a misdemeanor instead of a felony. However, even misdemeanors have consequences that could introduce unwanted difficulties in your life. In this circumstance, you should strongly consider seeking Probation Before Judgment.
What is Probation Before Judgment?
Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) is essentially a means to give first time offenders of a crime a second chance before any repercussions are given. Rather than being convicted of a crime and instantly receiving the corresponding sanctions, PBJ allows citizens to be placed on probation for a maximum of five years (depending on the severity of the offense). Once the probation period is over, PBJ can be expunged and entirely removed from one’s record.
Advantages of Probation Before Judgment
One of the great advantages of Probation Before Judgment is that it leads to no criminal charges being added to the offender’s record. People who have been given Probation Before Judgment can confidently walk into job interviews and say that they have no criminal charges on their record. Additionally, those who are given PBJ as a result of a DUI or DWI do not have to worry about their car insurance rates skyrocketing. From the perspective of insurance companies, no crime was committed so no price increases will need to take place. Finally, unlike criminal charges, PBJ can be expunged from offenders’ records after the probation period ends.
Potential Negatives to Consider
While PBJ makes sense for a lot of people, there are some potential drawbacks that everyone should consider. If an individual on PBJ makes another similar mistake within their supervised period, they will receive the full punishment of the original crime. The other potential disadvantage of PBJ is that individuals lose the right to appeal their case. Even with these potential drawbacks in mind, Probation Before Judgment still remains a great result for many people.
Is Probation Before Judgment Best for You?
Receiving Probation Before Judgment is not a guarantee in any case. It is possible that PBJ is not even the best option for you. The Law Office of Elizabeth A. Lawrence offers high-quality legal representation, personal attention, and professionalism to help defend those who need it most. Contact here or call (410) 986-0088 to consult with an experienced attorney today who can help you assess your situation.