DUI Defense Attorney in Bristol County, MA

To meet this burden in a DUI case, the prosecution must establish the following key elements:

• You operated a motor vehicle: To prove you were driving, the state will have to present evidence that you were behind the wheel of the car at the time of the arrest. If you were in the passenger seat, you cannot be convicted of OUI.
• You were on a public roadway: The prosecution must establish that you were on a road or in a place the public has a right of access to.
• You were under the influence or had an unlawful BAC: The prosecution must show that your ability to drive safely was compromised because of alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances or that your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was 0.08 or greater. The prosecution can present evidence such as field sobriety tests, chemical tests, or witness testimony to demonstrate that you were impaired.

A skilled OUI defense attorney meticulously scrutinizes the prosecution's case, identifying weaknesses and inconsistencies that may cast doubt on the evidence presented. Simultaneously, they leverage the strengths of the defense's case to challenge the prosecution's arguments and advocate for their client's innocence.

When you work with a DUI defense attorney in Bristol County, we can examine whether officers had a lawful basis to stop your vehicle, whether roadside tests were conducted according to accepted standards, and whether any video or booking-room footage supports your version of events. We also review how chemical tests were administered and whether the equipment used complied with state requirements. By thoroughly analyzing each step the prosecution must prove, we look for opportunities to challenge the government’s case and seek a more favorable outcome.

What Are the Penalties for an OUI?

In Massachusetts, the penalties for DUI can have significant and far-reaching consequences.

The primary sanctions for a first-time OUI conviction include:

• A fine of not less than $500 nor more than $5,000
• Imprisonment for not more than two and a half years
• Driver's license suspension for one year
• Completion of an alcohol education class

The penalties for a DUI will increase depending on whether you have prior convictions. If you are convicted of a third DUI, you can face up to 5 years in state prison and a lifetime license suspension. If you are convicted of a fourth DUI, you can face up to 5 years in state prison and a permanent license revocation. You will also have to pay increased fines with each subsequent conviction.

Beyond the direct legal consequences, individuals convicted of OUI may also face other collateral consequences that can have lasting effects. A criminal record can adversely affect various aspects of one's life, including employment opportunities, professional licenses, educational pursuits, and housing options. Moreover, the stigma associated with a DUI conviction can strain personal relationships and tarnish one's reputation within the community.

What Are the Penalties for a Super Drunk Offense in Massachusetts?

If you are charged with a super drunk offense, you can face even harsher penalties. A super drunk offense is charged when you have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .20 or greater. If you are convicted, you can face even steeper fines and jail time. You can also face increased driver's license suspension periods.

Understanding Your Rights in a DUI Case

When facing a DUI charge, it's important to understand your rights and options. Our experienced Bristol County DUI attorney can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need to navigate through the complexities of your case.

Some key points to consider in a DUI case include:

• Your right to remain silent: You have the right not to answer questions from law enforcement about where you were, what you were doing, or whether you have been drinking, and you can request to speak with an attorney before deciding what to say.
• The consequences of refusing a breathalyzer test: Under Massachusetts law, refusing a breath test can result in an automatic license suspension through the RMV, which is separate from any penalties that might result from a criminal conviction.
• The importance of legal counsel before speaking: Talking to police or appearing in court without guidance can have long-term consequences, so consulting with a lawyer before making statements or entering a plea can help you avoid unintended mistakes.
• Potential defenses to a DUI charge: Depending on the facts, your attorney may be able to challenge the legality of the traffic stop, the way field sobriety tests were performed, or the reliability of breath or blood test results.

By understanding your rights and the legal process, you can make informed decisions and work towards the best possible outcome for your case. Contact our Fall River DUI attorney today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.

How Can You Fight a DUI Charge?

Facing an OUI charge can be daunting. Still, you have options for contesting the accusations against you.

Defense strategies include the following:

• Challenging the lawfulness of the traffic stop or arrest
• Disputing the accuracy of chemical test results
• Questioning the arresting officer’s observations of impairment

An experienced DUI defense attorney understands the nuances of the law and the tactics and procedures used by law enforcement officials and prosecutors. They can identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case, leverage legal precedents, and develop a tailored defense strategy to protect your interests.

As a drunk driving lawyer Bristol County residents can turn to in a crisis, we also help you evaluate whether alternative resolutions may be available in your case, such as treatment-based options or programs that could impact your license consequences. We will talk through how a plea, a trial, or a motion to suppress might affect your future so that you are not making decisions in the dark. Our goal is to help you balance the risks and benefits of each path so you can choose the approach that best fits your circumstances and priorities.

Contact Our Team Today

If you have been charged with DUI, you need to take the matter seriously. You could face a lifetime driver's license suspension, fines, and jail time if convicted. Hire an OUI lawyer to help you fight your charges. At the Law Office of Frank D. Camera and Associates, P.C., we provide aggressive advocacy and personalized attention throughout the legal process.

To schedule a consultation with our Bristol County DUI lawyer, fill out our online form or call us at (877) 444-1098.