Reach Out to the Most Trusted DWI Attorney in  Bristol, Norfolk, & Plymouth Counties, Massachusetts Today

The first 24–48 hours after a DWI arrest are critical. Avoid speaking to the police beyond providing identification and request to contact an attorney immediately. Don’t assume you can “talk your way out of it.” Every statement can be used against you. Preserve any evidence such as receipts, text messages, or names of witnesses that could support your case. Contact an experienced DWI attorney like Michael P. Carroll as soon as possible—early legal representation can help preserve your license, challenge improper procedures, and guide you through the complex legal maze that follows an arrest.

Yes, you can refuse, but it comes with consequences. Refusing a breathalyzer leads to an automatic license suspension—180 days for a first offense, longer for repeat offenders. Field sobriety tests can also be declined, but this refusal may still be used as evidence in court. The key is understanding the trade-off between possibly avoiding self-incrimination and facing administrative penalties. A DWI attorney can help determine whether the refusal strengthens or weakens your defense, depending on the specific circumstances and how evidence was collected.

In Massachusetts, Operating Under the Influence (OUI) is the legal term used instead of DWI or DUI. All these terms are often used interchangeably by the public, but in legal documentation, OUI is the standard. It encompasses both alcohol and drug impairment while operating a vehicle. It’s important not to get caught up in the terminology—what matters most is understanding the penalties, potential defenses, and how a skilled attorney like Michael P. Carroll can contest the charges based on the facts of your case.

Not necessarily. License suspension depends on several factors: whether you submitted to a breath test, your BAC, and prior offenses. Even if you face an immediate suspension, an attorney can often request a Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) hearing to contest it. If successful, you may retain your driving privileges or obtain a hardship license. Many clients don’t realize that the suspension can be appealed separately from the criminal case—a nuance your attorney can navigate for you.

Beyond fines and jail time, an OUI conviction can haunt you for years. It may impact employment opportunities, especially in professions requiring security clearance, commercial driving, or professional licenses (nursing, law, teaching). Auto insurance premiums can skyrocket for up to five years. If you’re not a U.S. citizen, it could also affect immigration status. Many first-time offenders assume it’s “no big deal,” but even a first offense can lead to significant personal and professional fallout.

Absolutely. Breathalyzers are not foolproof and have been successfully challenged in Massachusetts courts due to calibration issues, operator error, or improper administration. In fact, the state temporarily halted breathalyzer use due to reliability concerns in past years. Your attorney can analyze the maintenance logs, training records, and procedural compliance to question the validity of the results. A failed test is not an automatic conviction, especially with a knowledgeable defense attorney advocating for you.

While public defenders are competent and hardworking, they often juggle a high caseload and limited time for individualized defense. A private attorney like Michael P. Carroll offers tailored attention, access to expert witnesses, and deep knowledge of local courts, judges, and prosecutors in Bristol, Norfolk, and Plymouth Counties. This familiarity can greatly benefit your case, especially when negotiating plea deals, contesting procedural errors, or pursuing a trial. A private attorney is your dedicated advocate from start to finish.

An RMV hearing determines whether your driver’s license remains suspended due to chemical test refusal or failure. It’s entirely separate from your criminal case and must be requested within a strict timeframe—usually 15 days after the arrest. Many clients don’t even realize this opportunity exists. An experienced attorney will represent you at the hearing, challenge the basis for suspension, and possibly restore your driving rights early. Missing this window could mean months without a license, even before your court case concludes.

Yes, Massachusetts allows hardship licenses for eligible drivers, typically requiring proof of employment, school, or medical necessity. You’ll need to meet specific criteria, including completing an alcohol education program. These licenses restrict driving to certain hours and require compliance with RMV conditions. The process can be tricky and is often denied if forms are incomplete or improperly filed. A skilled DWI attorney can help present your case convincingly to increase the likelihood of approval.

For first-time offenders, Massachusetts offers a 24D disposition, which may result in probation, driver alcohol education, and license reinstatement after a shorter suspension period. Court appearances include the arraignment, pre-trial hearings, and possibly a trial. An experienced attorney can help you avoid common pitfalls, negotiate reduced charges, or even seek case dismissal due to legal errors. Clients often underestimate how procedural missteps—like improperly filed motions—can affect outcomes. A tailored legal strategy makes all the difference.