Aggressive OUI Defense in Norwood, MA

If you have been arrested for Operating Under the Influence (OUI) in Norwood, Massachusetts, you need an experienced attorney on your side immediately. OUI convictions can carry harsh legal penalties, affect your employment, and impact your driving privileges for years to come. The Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm has extensive experience defending individuals accused of OUI in Massachusetts and is ready to build a strong defense for you.

Understanding OUI Laws in Massachusetts

Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 24, a person can be charged with OUI if they operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You may be charged if:

• Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher (0.02% for drivers under 21).
• You fail field sobriety tests administered by law enforcement.
• An officer determines that you are impaired based on observations, even without a breathalyzer test.

OUI charges in Massachusetts cannot be plea-bargained down to a lesser offense like in some other states. This makes it crucial to fight the charges head-on with an experienced attorney.

Penalties for an OUI Conviction in Norwood

The penalties for an OUI conviction in Massachusetts depend on prior offenses and other factors.

First Offense OUI

• Fines: $500 – $5,000
• License Suspension: Up to 1 year
• Jail Time: Up to 2.5 years (rare but possible)
• Alternative Option: Eligible for the 24D program, which can reduce suspension time and avoid a conviction on record

Second Offense OUI

• Fines: $600 – $10,000
• License Suspension: 2 years
• Jail Time: 30 days to 2.5 years
• Mandatory Ignition Interlock Device (IID) required

Third Offense OUI (Felony OUI)

• Fines: $1,000 – $15,000
• License Suspension: 8 years
• Jail Time: 180 days to 5 years

Additional Consequences

• Higher Insurance Premiums
• Probation and Mandatory Alcohol Education
• Possible Job Loss or Difficulty Finding Employment

Massachusetts Chemical Test Refusal Penalties

Refusing a breathalyzer or blood test in Massachusetts results in automatic license suspension by the RMV. Massachusetts follows a lifetime lookback policy—any previous OUI convictions will increase the penalties for refusal.

Suspension Periods for Refusing a Chemical Test

Number of Prior OUI/Refusals	Suspension Period
None	180 days
One	3 years
Two	5 years
Three or more	Lifetime

Key Notes:

• If convicted of OUI after refusing a test, both suspensions will apply (one for refusal, one for conviction).
• To reinstate a license after a refusal suspension, a hearing with the RMV Hearings Officer is required.
• Hardship licenses are NOT available during chemical refusal suspensions.

How Long Does the State Have to File OUI Charges?

The statute of limitations for OUI in Massachusetts is 6 years. However, in most cases, charges are filed immediately following an arrest.

Defending an OUI Charge in Norwood

A strong legal defense can make a significant difference in an OUI case. Some possible defense strategies include:

1. Challenging the Traffic Stop
   If the officer lacked probable cause to pull you over, any evidence collected could be thrown out.
2. Contesting Breathalyzer or Blood Test Results
   Faulty breathalyzers or improper administration can lead to false BAC readings.
   Certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, acid reflux) can influence breathalyzer results.
3. Improper Field Sobriety Testing
   If tests were administered incorrectly, they may be invalid.
4. Rising BAC Defense
   Alcohol takes time to absorb—your BAC could have been under the legal limit at the time of driving but risen later when tested.
5. Violations of Your Constitutional Rights
   If police failed to read your Miranda rights or conducted an unlawful search, the case could be dismissed.

Where Will Your Case Be Heard?

If you were arrested for OUI in Norwood, your case will be handled at:

📍 Dedham District Court
631 High St., Dedham, MA 02026
📞 (781) 329-4777

The Norwood Police Department is responsible for handling arrests:

📍 Norwood Police Department
137 Nahatan St., Norwood, MA 02062
📞 (781) 440-5100

Why Hire the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm for Your OUI Defense?

At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming an OUI charge can be. Our experienced team is aggressive, knowledgeable, and committed to protecting your rights.

Why Choose Us?

• Extensive Experience – Years of defending OUI cases in Massachusetts courts.
• Aggressive Defense Strategies – We fight to get charges reduced or dismissed.
• Client-Focused Approach – We treat every case with dedication and respect.
• 24/7 Availability – We are always available to answer your questions.

If you've been charged with OUI in Norwood, don't wait. The sooner you act, the better your chances of avoiding severe penalties.