Massachusetts DUI Consequences

Massachusetts drivers, take heed: your state’s elected legislative officials are on a mission to reduce the number of alcohol-related collisions that occur each year. In their efforts to accomplish this task, lawmakers have enacted stringent sentencing guidelines to punish anyone who is convicted of driving under the influence (DUI). From fines to a license suspension and even jail time, Massachusetts DUI consequences include some of the harshest penalties in the nation. Here’s what you’ll face if you are arrested for drunk driving in Massachusetts.

Although first-time offenders typically receive lighter sentences than individuals who have a history of drunk driving, the punishment for a first DUI includes a fine of $500 to $5,000, a one-year license suspension, and up to 2.5 years of jail time. Repeat offenders, meanwhile, face even harsher penalties, such as a $600 to $10,000 fine, 2-year license suspension, and a jail sentence of 60 days to 2.5 years—even if several years have passed since the driver’s first conviction.

While the penalties for a first or second DUI conviction are certainly nothing to laugh about, they’re rather lenient in comparison to what you’ll face for a third or subsequent offense. Indeed, a third DUI carries a $1,000 to $15,000 fine, 8-year license suspension, and a minimum 180-day jail sentence. For a fourth offense, you could be fined as much as $25,000, lose your license for ten years, and spend two to five years behind bars. Should you rack up four DUI convictions, a fifth offense will cost you up to $50,000 in fines and a permanent license suspension. In addition, a 2.5 to 5-year jail sentence may be imposed.

Regardless of whether it’s your second or fifth conviction, state law requires all repeat DUI offenders to have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle. In simple terms, this means you will have to perform a breath test each time you attempt to start your automobile—and if the device detects alcohol on your breath, you will be unable to operate your vehicle. Furthermore, if this penalty is included in your sentence, you will incur additional expenses for the device’s installation and maintenance, as well as monthly monitoring fees.

Finally, it is important to understand how a DUI conviction will affect you in the future. Even if it is your first offense, your conviction will remain on your criminal record for the rest of your life—costing you countless opportunities for employment, housing, and educational assistance. Your budget may also suffer the consequences of your actions, as your auto insurance rates are sure to go up once your insurer finds out about your conviction. In fact, it’s not unusual for companies to charge drivers who have been convicted of DUI two to three times more for coverage—and that’s assuming your company doesn’t drop your coverage altogether.

Fortunately, an arrest is not the same as a conviction, and there are a number of strategies available for your defense. To discuss tactics that can be used to challenge your arrest, submit your information online today to receive a free, no-obligation consultation with a skilled DUI defense attorney in your area. In many cases, a strong legal strategy is all you need to reduce or avoid the devastating consequences of a DUI conviction. Complete our online form today to schedule your free case evaluation.