Lowell DWI Defense Lawyer
First Time DUI Arrest - What to Expect
There are a number of things that can go wrong during an arrest for drunk driving: did the officer have reasonable suspicion to pull you over? Did he conduct the field sobriety test properly? If you were given a chemical test, is there reason to believe the results were inaccurate or tainted? Our experience suggests few OUI arrests are 100% perfect – officers make mistakes, a breathalyzer doesn’t work, or blood samples are mishandled. As a result, we aggressively challenge OUI cases in court and have an established, proven track record of winning acquittals for our clients. This does not minimize, however, the seriousness of an OUI charge.
In Massachusetts, a first time conviction for driving while intoxicated can result in the suspension of your driver's license, expensive fines, and jail. Additionally, depending on the specifics of your case, you may be required to attend an alcohol education program and install an ignition interlock device on your car if your license is suspended and you apply for a hardship license. Further, insurance companies regularly collect information regarding DUI / OUI arrests and convictions. As a result, your insurance premiums will increase and you will be required to purchase SR-22 insurance.
In many cases, however, a Continuance without Finding (CWOF) can be requested and processed in a relatively short period of time. The court will likely grant a CWOF if your DUI charge does not involve other criminal charges, an accident, or injuries. If granted, you will likely be sentenced to one year probation, be required to an alcohol education program, and have your license suspended between 45 and 90 days. Afterwards, you should be eligible for a hardship license.
Billerica Initial Drunk-Driving Charge Attorney
Don't assume you can plead guilty and resolve a DUI charge quickly - contact Lowell, Massachusetts DWI defense lawyer Greg Oberhauser today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
DWI Defense - Penalties for a First Time DUI Conviction
While each case is different, in general, the following penalties apply to first time DUI convictions in the state of Massachusetts:
- Fines anywhere from $500 to $5,000
- Suspension of your driver's license for 1 year
- Potential jail term of not more than 2 1/2 years.
- Purchase of SR-22 insurance
- Installation of an ignition interlock device in order to drive on an occupational license
Penalties increase in cases where your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .20 or higher, if a minor is in your car at the time of your arrest, or if you were involved in an accident at the time of your arrest. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be eligible to participate in Massachusetts' alternative disposition process. Alternative disposition involves a plea bargain that results in mandatory alcohol education and the temporary suspension of your license, allowing first-time DUI offenders to avoid more serious penalties.
1st Offense for OUI? Contact Lowell DWI Defense Attorney Greg Oberhauser
A DUI / OUI in Massachusetts is a serious matter. Even if your sentence doesn't involve jail, a license suspension can create significant complications when driving to and from work, the store, and running everyday errands is a necessity. Even if you are eligible for a hardship license, it only allows you to drive 12 hours each day to drive to work, school, medical appointments, or for other purposes deemed necessary. Additionally, there may be problems with the reliability of the breathalyzer, blood, or urine test used in your case. For these and other reasons, it's important to talk to an experienced criminal defense lawyer who can prepare you for what's involved and explain the options available to you. To schedule a free consultation and discuss your case, contact DWI defense attorney Greg Oberhauser today.