Maryland Laws and Legal Penalties
Comprehensive legal reference for Maryland. Browse DUI laws, drug possession penalties, theft charges, statutes of limitations, and more. All information is sourced from public state statutes.
Note: This information is for general educational purposes only. Laws change frequently. Always consult a licensed Maryland attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Maryland Quick Facts
- State Capital: Annapolis
- Region: Northeast
- DUI BAC Limit: 0.08%
- Marijuana Status: Legal (recreational)
- Felony Theft Threshold: $1,500+
- Murder SOL: None
Maryland DUI Laws
| Offense | Penalties |
|---|---|
| First Offense DUI | Up to 1 year jail, $1,000 fine, 6-month suspension |
| Second Offense DUI | Up to 2 years jail, $2,000 fine, 9-month suspension |
| Felony DUI Threshold | 3rd offense |
| Legal BAC Limit | 0.08% |
Maryland has both DUI and DWI charges (DWI is lesser)
Maryland Marijuana Laws
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Status | Legal (recreational) |
| Medical Program | Yes |
| Recreational Use | Yes |
| Small Amount Penalty | Legal (up to 1.5 oz for adults 21+) |
| Large Amount Penalty | Over 1.5 oz: civil violation |
Maryland legalized recreational marijuana in 2023
Maryland Theft Penalties
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Misdemeanor Threshold | Under $1,500 |
| Felony Threshold | $1,500+ or more |
| Minimum Sentence | Up to 18 months |
| Maximum Sentence | Up to 25 years (theft over $100,000) |
Maryland theft in 5 value-based categories
Maryland Statutes of Limitations
| Crime Type | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Murder | None |
| Rape / Sexual Assault | None |
| Felony (General) | 1 year (misdemeanor only) |
| Misdemeanor | 1 year |
| Fraud | None (felony) |
| Theft | None (felony) |
| DUI / DWI | 1 year |
| Assault | None (felony) |
Maryland has no SOL for felonies; only misdemeanors have 1-year limit