DUI Penalties in Boston

No one plans to get pulled over for driving under the influence. But if you consume alcohol and get behind the wheel of a car in Boston, being convicted of a DUI is possible. If you are facing DUI charges in our state, it’s important that you understand the potential penalties and get legal help from a skilled DUI attorney in Boston. 

Potential Consequences of a Boston DUI Conviction

If you are convicted of a DUI in Boston, you could face the following penalties for a first offense:

  • Imprisonment. While it’s not common, if you are convicted of a DUI, even a first offense, you could face being imprisoned for up to two and a half years. Being imprisoned for even a short amount of time can have devastating consequences on a person’s life. 
  • Fine. Rather than being imprisoned, it’s more likely that you will be charged a fine (in some cases, a person will be penalized by both a fine and a period of incarceration). The fine for a first-time DUI offense in our state is between $500 and $5,000. This fine does not include court and legal fees. 
  • License suspension. If you refused to comply with a request to submit to a blood or breath alcohol test prior to being charged and convicted of a DUI, you will automatically lose your license for a period of 180 days. For those who are under the age of 21, the license suspension period for a refusal to consent to testing is three years. 
  • Insurance rate increases. While not an administrative or criminal penalty handed down by the state of Massachusetts, if you are convicted of a DUI, it’s very likely that you will see your motor vehicle liability insurance rate skyrocket.
  • Employment consequences. Depending on your profession, you could face the suspension of a professional license if you are convicted of a DUI; you could also be terminated from your job. What’s more, you may find it very difficult to secure future employment, especially if your profession involves operating machinery, equipment, or a motor vehicle. 
  • Mark on your criminal record. Note that when you are convicted of a DUI, that conviction will appear on your criminal record. This can make it difficult for you to pursue certain opportunities, and can also be a source of shame or embarrassment. 

All of the above are the penalties for a first offense driving under the influence charge. If you are charged a second or subsequent time, both the period of potential incarceration and the amount of the fine increase, you will automatically have your driver’s license suspended (even if you didn’t refuse to consent to testing), and an ignition interlock device will be installed in your vehicle if your license is reinstated or you are granted a hardship license. 

Get Help from a Qualified Boston DUI Attorney Today

Your life could be shaped by the outcome of your criminal case. If you have been charged with a DUI, don’t hesitate to exercise your legal rights by immediately calling a qualified DUI attorney in Boston. At The Law Offices of Paul R. Moraski, Attorney at Law, our experienced DUI lawyer can start working on your case immediately. Reach us today online or by phone at (978) 397-0011.