Fifth Offense OUI

A fifth offense OUI in Massachusetts is considered extreme and should not be taken lightly. The Commonwealth characterizes this offense as a criminal felony. There are a wide range of penalties which can typically result, including prison time and a lifetime revocation of your vehicle registration. As of April, 2018, if you are charged with a fifth offense OUI in Massachusetts, the prosecution will likely seek a high bail and request a dangerousness hearing as provided by M.G.L. 276 § 58A. If you are facing a fifth offense OUI, do not risk your life or your freedom; contact the most qualified Massachusetts OUI/DUI/DWI attorney immediately for a free and confidential assessment of your case. Boston criminal defense lawyer Patrick J. Murphy possesses the legal knowledge to achieve the most favorable outcome through the implementation of the most legally compelling defense strategies in OUI cases.

Facing criminal charges of any kind is a serious matter, but with the implementation of Melanie's Law in 2005, Massachusetts has sought to impose heavy fines and penalties for those charged with multiple OUI offenses. Additionally, under Melanie's Law, if you already have a suspended license and are found operating a vehicle under the influence, you will receive both penalties for driving with a suspended license and OUI penalties. If you are found operating a vehicle under the influence with a child who is under 14 years old as a passenger, you will be charged with child endangerment and OUI offenses simultaneously.

Recognizing the seriousness of your charge and the penalties attached to it will enable you and your attorney to present the most aggressive legal defense to your OUI charge. Fifth and sixth OUI offenses in Massachusetts are punishable by:

  • Fines: $2,000 to $50,000
  • Incarceration: Minimum: 2.5 years in a house of correction or in a state prison, Maximum: 5 years in a state prison
  • Driver's License: Lifetime revocation without the possibility of hardship license
  • Additionally, the Registry of Motor Vehicles may seek to cancel your vehicle's registration plates for the duration of the license suspension
  • The District Attorney's Office may also seek the forfeiture of your vehicle.
  • Your judge may also decide that you must complete a substance abuse treatment program or OUI education program

Seventh and Eighth OUI Offenses in Massachusetts are punishable by:

  • Fines: $2,000 to $50,000
  • Incarceration: Minimum: 3.5 years in state prison, Maximum: 8 years in state prison

Ninth Offense OUI in Massachusetts is punishable by:

  • Fines: $2,000 to $50,000
  • Incarceration: Minimum: 4.5 years in state prison, Maximum: 10 years in state prison

The consequences of a felony conviction are life altering; a felony on your record may lead to your exclusion from job and educational opportunities, a significant debt to the court, as well as other undesirable repercussions. Only a Massachusetts criminal defense attorney who is well versed in the area of OUI law will be able to explain your legal rights and help you navigate through the complex and stressful situation with which you are faced. Boston criminal defense attorney Murphy possesses this knowledge and for decades he has successfully represented clients in Massachusetts. For additional information or for a confidential and free legal consultation, please contact the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy today by calling (617) 367-0450 or completing the contact form on our website.

Client Reviews
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"Highly Recommended. Attorney Patrick J. Murphy absolutely helped me out in my time of need. When I met him in his Boston office he put me right at ease and explained the criminal process to me in a way I could easily understand and in a manner that gave me complete confidence. I was facing a criminal wanton destruction of property charge in Barnstable District Court. On the day of the case, he was at the courthouse waiting for me and my wife. Mr. Murphy handled the hearing in a very thorough and professional manner putting us through our testimony and making a powerful argument to the decision maker. My case was thrown out and I could not be happier with the service from Attorney Murphy. I highly recommend him to you as a skilled legal advocate!" Rob, Avvo User
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"OUI Not Guilty Verdict. Patrick Murphy provided excellent service as council on my case. He worked diligently over a long legal process that spanned over 3 years. He was able to take my case to a Jury Trial and get me a Not Guilty verdict through he expert knowledge of the law and expertise in cross examination of the prosecutions witnesses. He was very professional and available at anytime night or day to answer questions." Chris, Avvo User
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"Highly Skilled and Professional Lawyer. Attorney Pat Murphy did a great job guiding me through an A&B charge, and most importantly getting the case dismissed in a very timely manner. He is very professional, returns call promptly, and did a great explaining his strategy and the legal process to me. I was confident throughout the whole process that I was in good hands and would receive the best possible outcome in my case. Would highly recommended Attorney Murphy." Avvo User
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"I Felt That I was in Good Hands... and I Was! Mr. Patrick J. Murphy was very quick to respond to my needs. He was always there to answer any questions I had in a timely fashion, and he made me feel very comfortable in an extremely uncomfortable situation. Having Mr. Murphy by my side in the courtroom felt like I was at an advantage. He speaks with confidence. He doesn't stutter or pause while put on the spot. He treated me with respect. He listens. He always greeted me with a warm welcome and never wasted any time." Avvo User