What is the sentence for a first DUI in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts DUI laws, like other states, defines driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol (DUI) as having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or more if you are over the age of 21.  If you are under 21, the BAC is 0.02%.  If you are found to have these BAC levels, or higher, you are immediately considered as driving impaired.   

Your first DUI offense in Massachusetts can carry the following penalties: 

• Jail time – you can have to spend up to 2 and a half years in jail, even for a first offense, depending on the circumstances
• Fines – you can pay between $500 and $5,000 in fines, fees, and court costs
• Loss of driving privileges – you can have your license suspended for one year. In cases where your work or education make it impossible to live without your license, this can be lowered to 3 months, or in other cases, it can be lowered to 6 months

First-time DUI offenders can also see these alternative penalties:

• Instead of jail time, you can be put on probation with required attendance in rehabilitation and education programs for addicts
• You can have your license suspended for only 45 to 90 days

If you are arrested for a DUI in Massachusetts, you need to call an experienced attorney as soon as possible to help you defend against the potentially serious penalties you face.