DUI

Being arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can lead to serious consequences such as hefty fines, loss of driving privileges and even jail time. Contacting an experienced DUI attorney who understands the law and can guide you through this difficult time is your best defense and should be your first move.

A Serious Charge

DUI is a serious infraction with extremely complex consequences for drivers, victims and the general population. Approximately half of a million people are injured in DUI-related highway crashes every year in the United States, costing taxpayers over 114 billion dollars.

Because of the high cost to society, prosecutors do their best to obtain convictions whenever possible. That's why you need an experienced Massachusetts criminal defense attorney if you're facing drunk driving charges.

DUI Punishments

• Fines:
  An individual convicted of driving under the influence should expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars in fines. The financial burden of a drunk driving charge does not stop at the courtroom; the defendant may experience higher insurance premiums, loss of employment and even loss of child custody.
• Incarceration in County or State Jail:
  An individual convicted of driving while under the influence may be required to spend up to several months in jail. The sentence may be enhanced if the defendant has multiple DUI or criminal charges, refused to take the sobriety test, or resisted arrest.
• Probation:
  Conditional probation is an important aspect of rehabilitation as far as the criminal justice system is concerned.
• Mandatory Attendance of DUI classes and AA Meetings:
  As part of the rehabilitation program, the defendant will be required to attend regularly scheduled meetings assigned by the court. If the defendant seeks their own treatment before sentencing, they may have more flexibility on what facility they will attend.
• Community Service:
  Community service is usually upheld as part of the probation. Having a DUI lawyer is important because they are familiar with local provisions on community service and may be able to have the defendant participate in community service instead of serving time in jail.
• Suspension, Revocation or Restriction of Drivers License:
  This is the most common punishment for DUI charges—revocation of driving privileges. In some cases, the court may issue a restricted license for defendants to travel to work and school.

DUI is a serious charge and can result in severe consequences. If you have been arrested for DUI, you should contact a DUI attorney immediately for legal guidance.

175 Central Street
Suite 215
Lowell, MA 01852

Tel: 800-483-9219