The Penalties Are Severe
A conviction for a first offense of Operating Under the Influence (OUI) is a serious matter. However, a conviction for a second or third offense is far more serious, in part due to the passage of Melanie's Law in October 2005. Multiple OUI or DUI offenders in Massachusetts face stiff penalties, including jail or prison time and lengthy driver's license suspension.
My name is Stephen E. Dawley. I am an attorney with more than 30 years of experience, and I understand the consequences of several OUI convictions. If you have been charged with multiple OUI violations, you need an experienced lawyer to defend you. Please call my Framingham office at 508-283-3095 or send an e-mail for an appointment.
What Happens if You Are Charged With Multiple OUI Offenses?
A second conviction results in fines up to $10,000, 30 days to two and a half years in jail and a two-year license suspension. For a third offense, you may face fines up to $15,000, 150 days to five years in jail and an eight-year license suspension. A fourth offense carries fines up to $25,000, one to five years in prison and a 10-year license suspension.
You may also incur penalties specific to the regulations set forth in Melanie's Law.
Melanie's Law
Melanie's Law increased the severity of consequences for multiple OUI or DWI offenses. Four of the most severe consequences of Melanie's Law are:
- If pulled over for OUI while driving with a suspended license, you can be charged for both crimes at once.
- No one is allowed to employ a person with a suspended license as a driver.
- You can be charged with OUI and "child endangerment while OUI" if pulled over with a passenger who is a child under the age of 14.
- An ignition interlock device must be installed on your vehicle, making the car inoperable unless you prove by breathalyzer that you are not under the influence of alcohol.
If you are facing these charges, you need a criminal defense attorney on your side. I work hard to keep you out of jail and to help you retain your license.
You Need an Attorney
It is not a good idea to try to fight these charges by yourself — the consequences are too severe. Please call 508-283-3095 or send me an e-mail today.
