Being arrested for Operating Under the Influence (OUI) in Wayland, MA is a serious legal matter that can affect your driving privileges, employment, and personal freedom. Massachusetts has some of the strictest OUI laws in the country, with penalties that include license suspension, fines, and jail time.
At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with an OUI charge. Our experienced attorneys have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against OUI charges in Wayland and across Massachusetts. We know how to challenge breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and police procedures to build the strongest possible defense.
If you've been arrested for OUI in Wayland, call (857) 229-2442 for a free consultation today.
Understanding Massachusetts OUI Laws
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 24, a person can be charged with OUI if they are:
- Found to have a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
- Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both.
- A driver under 21 with a BAC of 0.02% or higher.
Unlike many states, Massachusetts does not allow plea bargains to reduce an OUI to a lesser charge. A strong legal defense is essential to fight the charges and protect your future.
Penalties for an OUI Conviction in Wayland
The severity of an OUI conviction depends on whether it's your first offense or a repeat offense.
First Offense OUI
- Jail Time: Up to 2.5 years (though jail time is rare for first-time offenders).
- Fines: Between $500 β $5,000.
- License Suspension: Up to 1 year.
- Hardship License: Available after 3 months (or sooner with enrollment in the 24D First Offender Program).
- Alternative Sentence: The 24D Program allows first-time offenders to avoid a conviction by completing an alcohol education course.
Second Offense OUI
- Jail Time: 30 days to 2.5 years.
- Fines: Between $600 β $10,000.
- License Suspension: 2 years.
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID) required upon reinstatement.
Third Offense OUI (Felony OUI)
- Jail Time: 180 days to 5 years.
- Fines: Between $1,000 β $15,000.
- License Suspension: 8 years, with IID required upon reinstatement.
Additional Consequences of an OUI Conviction
- Higher car insurance premiums.
- Mandatory alcohol education programs.
- Probation and possible community service requirements.
- Employment challenges due to a criminal record.
Massachusetts Chemical Test Refusal Penalties
Massachusetts follows an "implied consent" law, meaning refusing a breathalyzer or blood test results in an automatic license suspension by the RMV.
Number of Prior OUI/Refusals | Suspension Period |
---|---|
None |
180 days |
One |
3 years |
Two |
5 years |
Three or more |
Lifetime |
Important Considerations for Chemical Test Refusals
- If convicted of OUI after refusing a test, both suspensions apply (refusal suspension + conviction suspension).
- No hardship license is available during the refusal suspension period.
- License reinstatement requires a hearing with the Massachusetts RMV.
Statute of Limitations for OUI in Massachusetts
The statute of limitations for OUI in Massachusetts is 6 years. However, most cases are prosecuted immediately following an arrest. If a delay occurs, a strong defense attorney may argue for dismissal based on procedural errors.
Defenses Against OUI Charges in Wayland
At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we use aggressive defense strategies to fight OUI charges, including:
-
Lack of Probable Cause for the Traffic Stop
Police must have reasonable suspicion to stop a vehicle.
If the stop was unlawful, the case may be dismissed. -
Breathalyzer or Blood Test Errors
Improperly calibrated breathalyzers can produce false BAC readings.
Certain medical conditions (such as diabetes or acid reflux) can affect test results. -
Field Sobriety Test Inaccuracies
Weather conditions, road conditions, and physical impairments can cause a driver to fail these tests unfairly.
If police administered the test improperly, the results may be unreliable. -
Rising BAC Defense
Alcohol takes time to absorb into the bloodstream.
Your BAC may have been legal while driving but higher when tested later. -
Violation of Constitutional Rights
If police did not read your Miranda rights or conducted an illegal search, your case may be dismissed.
Where Will Your OUI Case Be Heard?
If you were arrested for OUI in Wayland, your case will be handled at:
π Framingham District Court
600 Concord St., Framingham, MA 01701
π (508) 875-7461
Your arrest was likely conducted by:
π Wayland Police Department
38 Cochituate Rd., Wayland, MA 01778
π (508) 358-4721
Why Choose the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?
At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we provide aggressive and strategic OUI defense for clients in Wayland and across Massachusetts.
Why Clients Trust Us:
- Experienced OUI Defense Attorneys β Decades of experience handling OUI cases.
- Proven Success Record β We have successfully reduced and dismissed OUI charges.
- Aggressive Defense Strategies β We fight to challenge evidence and protect your rights.
- 24/7 Availability β We're always available when you need legal help.
- Personalized Legal Representation β Every case is unique, and we tailor a defense strategy to your specific situation.
If you've been charged with OUI in Wayland, don't wait. Time is critical in building a strong defense.
Contact a Wayland OUI Lawyer Today
Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm
π 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
π (857) 229-2442
π Arrested for OUI? Don't waitβcall now for a free consultation. We are ready to fight for you.