OUI Charges Involving Olin College of Engineering Students
An OUI arrest (Operating Under the Influence) is one of the most common but serious charges that college students face. For those enrolled at Olin College of Engineering, the consequences can extend far beyond the courtroom—potentially affecting academic standing, scholarships, future job prospects, and more.
At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we understand how an OUI charge can derail a bright future. We fight to protect your rights, preserve your academic record, and limit the long-term damage of an OUI arrest.
📞 Call Us Now: (857) 229-2442
📍 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
Massachusetts OUI Law: What You're Facing
Massachusetts law (M.G.L. c. 90 § 24) imposes strict penalties for anyone operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. For college students under 21, the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is just 0.02.
First-offense OUI penalties may include:
⛓️ Up to 2 ½ years in jail
🚗 License suspension for 1 year (reducible with program participation)
💰 Fines from $500 to $5,000
📚 Mandatory alcohol education programs
🔒 Potential ignition interlock device
A conviction can remain on your record for life, affecting internships, graduate school, and employment—especially in fields like engineering and technology.
Your Case Will Be Handled in Dedham District Court
OUI arrests occurring in or around Needham (where Olin College is located) are handled in Dedham District Court, located at:
📍 631 High Street, Dedham, MA 02026
We are highly familiar with the procedures, judges, and prosecutors in this court—and we use that knowledge to craft the strongest possible defense.
Will Olin College Discipline My Child?
Yes. Even if the OUI arrest happened off campus, Olin College of Engineering may still take disciplinary action. This may include:
⚖️ A formal disciplinary hearing
📋 Conduct probation or suspension
💸 Loss of scholarships or housing privileges
📜 Permanent notation on the academic record
While Olin is a tight-knit and high-achieving community, its expectations for student behavior are strict—and violations of state law are taken seriously.
Parental Questions We Often Hear
Can the school take action even if the incident was off-campus?
Yes. Most colleges, including Olin, reserve the right to discipline students for off-campus conduct that reflects poorly on the school.
Will this affect my child's scholarship or financial aid?
Potentially. While FAFSA rules are more forgiving for alcohol charges than drug offenses, scholarships based on conduct or academic standing may be at risk.
Can this be expunged or kept off their record?
For many first-time offenders, we can pursue alternative dispositions (like a CWOF) that help avoid a criminal conviction.
Is it worth hiring a private attorney?
Absolutely. The wrong move at arraignment could mean an automatic license loss or permanent record. A skilled attorney can guide you toward the best resolution while minimizing long-term harm.
Olin College Code of Conduct on Alcohol and OUI
Olin College of Engineering maintains strict policies concerning alcohol use and driving under the influence, aligning with Massachusetts state laws and the college's commitment to student well-being. The college explicitly prohibits students from operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary actions, including counseling, probation, suspension, dismissal, and referral to law enforcement authorities for prosecution.
Furthermore, Olin's Honor Code emphasizes integrity and responsibility, expecting students to uphold these values both on and off-campus. The college asserts jurisdiction over student conduct that violates its policies, regardless of whether the incident occurs on campus or elsewhere. This means that an OUI offense off-campus can still lead to internal disciplinary proceedings.
Students found in violation of these policies may face consequences such as:
📋 Disciplinary probation or suspension
🏠 Loss of campus housing or leadership positions
🧠 Mandatory counseling or educational programs
📜 Permanent notation on academic records
Given the potential for both legal and academic repercussions, it's crucial for students and their families to understand the seriousness of OUI charges and to seek appropriate legal counsel promptly.
Our Defense Strategies for OUI
🔍 Was there reasonable suspicion for the stop?
🚶 Were field sobriety tests administered properly?
⚗️ Was the breath test machine calibrated?
📚 Is your student eligible for a 24D First Offender Program?
📝 Can the charge be continued without a finding (CWOF)?
We build a tailored defense based on the unique facts of your case and your student's long-term goals.
Why Hire Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?
🎓 We specialize in representing college students charged with OUI and other criminal offenses. Our team:
⚖️ Knows Dedham District Court inside and out
📚 Regularly represents students from Olin College, Babson, and Wellesley College
🤝 Balances criminal defense with school discipline strategy
👨👩👧 Works directly with parents to navigate these stressful moments
Let us guide you with knowledge, discretion, and a results-driven strategy.
Contact Us Today for Experienced OUI Defense
Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm
📍 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 (857) 229-2442
We're ready to act immediately. Don't wait—protect your student's future starting today.
