When You Get an OUI on New Year’s, This is What You Should Do
IIf you’ve been arrested for an OUI on New Year’s, you’re not alone. New Year’s Eve is one of the biggest nights of the year for OUI arrests. If you’re now facing OUI charges after a New Year’s Eve arrest, here’s what to do.
Understand the Penalties for an OUI
In the state of Massachusetts, OUI penalties are much stricter than in many other states. Although no prison time is required generally for a first or second offense OUI, Massachusetts has the highest maximum prison sentence for first-time OUI offenders. In addition to license suspension, a first offense OUI carries possible consequences of a monetary fine between $500 and $5,000, a one year license suspension, and mandated ignition interlock device installation, although IIDs are only required of offenders who meet certain criteria.
Getting arrested for an OUI on a holiday has no impact on the severity of the legal penalties you face. Whether you’re arrested on New Year’s Eve or any random Tuesday, your charges, legal proceedings, and possible consequences will be the same.
Hire an Attorney
The Massachusetts court system is complex and often difficult to navigate. It’s highly inadvisable to take on your OUI case pro se or by yourself. In fact, the first thing you should do after being charged with an OUI is reach out to OUI lawyers in your area. Having a qualified OUI lawyer will make navigating the legal proceedings an exponentially smoother experience. It also improves your odds of achieving a favorable outcome. This is true even if you failed a breathalyzer test; your lawyer will be equipped with arguments that refute the validity of your breathalyzer test results.
Respect Your License Suspension
When you’re arrested for an OUI, your license is automatically suspended. It is of critical importance that you do not drive with a suspended license. Driving with a suspended license can result in additional charges, further penalties, and extra legal fees. Don’t drive with a suspended license or participate in any other behaviors that could complicate your case or invite further charges.
Contact Attorney James Milligan
Attorney James Milligan is a Massachusetts OUI lawyer with 25 years of experience helping the people of the Bay State successfully combat OUI charges. Attorney Milligan has received substantial recognition for his accomplishments in the field of OUI defense and is Board Certified in drunk driving defense. If you’re interested in working with Attorney Milligan as your OUI lawyer, you can contact his office today to schedule a free case evaluation.
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