Drunk driving is one of the most common crimes committed in Massachusetts and usually by individuals without a criminal history. Anyone, from a mom who had a glass or two of wine at dinner with an old friend to a college student who was pressured to have his first beers at a party, could be found guilty of this offense. However, as common as this crime is, not everyone knows the laws according to their state.
The first time you are found guilty of drunk driving in Massachusetts, you will:
- Be fined anywhere from $500-$5,000;
- Face up to 2 1/2 years in prison; and
- Your driver’s license will be suspended for 1 year.
In the event that you refuse the breath test, your license will be suspended for 180 days automatically, before appearing in court.
The second time you are found guilty of drunk driving in Massachusetts, you will:
- Be fined anywhere from $600-$10,000;
- Face 30 days mandatory and not more than 2 1/2 years in prison; and
- Your driver’s license will be suspended for 2 years; a work/education hardship license will be considered in 1 year; a general hardship license will be considered in 1 1/2 years.
In the event that you refuse the breath test on a second offense, your license will be suspended for 3 years automatically, before appearing in court.
The third time you are found guilty of drunk driving in Massachusetts, you will:
- Be fined anywhere from $1,000- $15,000;
- Face 150 days mandatory and not more than 5 years in prison; your sentence may be served in an Alcohol Treatment Facility; and
- Your driver’s license will be suspended for 8 years; a work/education hardship license will be considered in 2 years; a general hardship license will be considered in 4 years.
A fourth and fifth (or higher) drunk driving offense in Massachusetts enforces harsher penalties.
If you have been arrested for drunk driving in Massachusetts, the attorneys at Wynn & Wynn, P.C. are here to help negotiate a plea on your behalf. Contact us today at 1-800-852-5211.
