WORKING TOGETHER
How Our Services Help:
01
We challenge the validity of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) tests, field sobriety tests, and law enforcement procedures to fight for reduced or dismissed charges.
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Our firm helps clients understand the difference between OUI and DUI in Massachusetts and the best legal strategies for their case.
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We work to minimize penalties, negotiate alternative sentencing such as alcohol education programs, and seek hardship licenses for clients facing license suspension.
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Whether it’s a first offense or a repeat OUI charge, we provide aggressive defense to avoid severe penalties such as jail time and long-term consequences.
Why Choose Fiorentino Legal, P.C. for OUI/DUI Defense in Quincy
An OUI charge in Quincy can have serious consequences, from driving while intoxicated penalties to mandatory ignition interlock devices. Many drivers are unsure about the difference between DUI and OUI in Massachusetts, but the consequences remain the same—fines, license restrictions, and potential incarceration. We analyze every case thoroughly to challenge weak evidence and procedural errors, ensuring that our clients receive the strongest possible defense.
The severity of penalties for OUI depends on various factors, including blood alcohol content (BAC), prior offenses, and any aggravating circumstances, such as property damage or injuries. Whether you were stopped at a checkpoint or pulled over for erratic driving, our team fights to ensure that your rights were not violated and that any unreliable evidence is excluded from court.
For many, an OUI conviction can impact employment, insurance rates, and professional licensing. Massachusetts does not allow for OUI expungement, meaning a conviction stays on your record for life. We work diligently to prevent lasting consequences by seeking alternative sentencing options such as alcohol education programs and probation, helping clients regain control of their lives.
FAQs for OUI/DUI Cases in Massachusetts
How does Quincy handle OUI charges compared to the rest of Massachusetts?
Quincy follows Massachusetts OUI/DUI laws, meaning the same penalties apply statewide. However, factors like the judge assigned to your case and the specifics of local law enforcement procedures can impact the outcome of your case.
What are the penalties for OUI in Quincy?
A first-offense OUI charge can result in up to a $5,000 fine, a license suspension of up to one year, and possible jail time. Penalties increase for repeat offenders, with mandatory minimum sentences for third and subsequent convictions.
Can I refuse a breathalyzer test in Quincy?
Yes, but refusing a breathalyzer test triggers an automatic license suspension due to Massachusetts’ implied consent laws. A first-time refusal results in a 180-day suspension, while multiple refusals can lead to multi-year suspensions.
What's the difference between OUI and DUI in Massachusetts?
The difference between OUI and DUI in Massachusetts is primarily in terminology. Massachusetts uses OUI (Operating Under the Influence), while other states use DUI (Driving Under the Influence). Both refer to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Can I get a hardship license after an OUI conviction?
In many cases, yes. If you complete an alcohol education program and meet other eligibility criteria, you may qualify for a hardship license allowing you to drive for work or medical reasons.
How does my blood alcohol content (BAC) impact my case?
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is grounds for an automatic OUI charge. However, if you show signs of impairment, you can be charged with OUI even with a lower BAC. Commercial drivers face stricter limits, with a legal BAC threshold of 0.04%.
What if I was driving under the influence of drugs instead of alcohol?
Operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs carries the same penalties as an alcohol-related OUI. These cases rely on officer observations, field sobriety tests, and toxicology reports rather than breathalyzer results.
Will an OUI conviction stay on my record forever?
Yes. Massachusetts does not allow for OUI expungement, meaning a conviction remains on your record permanently. This can affect employment, insurance rates, and professional licensing.