If you’ve been charged with Operating Under the Influence (OUI) Causing Serious Bodily Injury in Massachusetts, you’re facing severe penalties that could have a lasting impact on your life. A conviction may result in lengthy imprisonment, substantial fines, and the loss of your driver’s license. To protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome, you need an experienced OUI defense attorney in your corner.
At Riccio Law, our skilled legal team has a proven track record of successfully defending clients against OUI charges involving serious injury. We understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to providing the aggressive, strategic representation you need during this challenging time.
In Massachusetts, you can be charged with OUI (Operating Under the Influence) if you operate a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Notably, “operating” isn’t limited to driving. It can include:
Even if you’re pulled over for another reason, like a broken taillight, you can face OUI charges if the officer suspects impairment.
In the context of OUI charges, serious bodily injury is defined as any injury that results in:
Examples may include severe fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or internal organ injuries. Impairment refers to damage severe enough to significantly compromise the normal function of a body part or system.
The penalties for OUI Causing Serious Bodily Injury depend on whether you’re convicted of a felony or misdemeanor:
If the prosecution proves you operated negligently or recklessly:
If negligence or recklessness can’t be established:
When charged with OUI Causing Serious Bodily Injury, you may face additional charges or enhanced penalties based on factors like:
These enhancements can add years to your sentence and result in vehicle forfeiture or registration revocation.
When you’re facing OUI charges involving serious bodily injury, you need a defense team that will leave no stone unturned in fighting for your rights. At Riccio Law, our attorneys will:
Invoke your right to remain silent, request an attorney, and do not discuss your case with anyone except your lawyer. What you say can be used against you, so it’s crucial to have legal guidance before making any statements.
A conviction for OUI Causing Serious Bodily Injury carries a mandatory 2-year license suspension. However, your attorney may be able to help you obtain a hardship license for work or other essential needs.
Unfortunately, Massachusetts does not currently allow expungement of OUI convictions. However, your lawyer can help you explore other options, such as sealing your record or early termination of probation, to minimize the long-term impact of a conviction.
Jail time is a real possibility with these charges, but it depends on the specifics of your case. An experienced OUI defense attorney can work to negotiate a plea deal, argue for alternative sentencing, or fight for an acquittal at trial to help you avoid or minimize imprisonment.
If you or a loved one is facing OUI Causing Serious Bodily Injury charges in Massachusetts, time is of the essence. The decisions you make now can have a profound impact on your life for years to come. You need a skilled legal advocate who will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
At Riccio Law, we understand the fear, stress, and uncertainty you’re experiencing. We’ve helped numerous clients in your situation take on these serious allegations and move forward with their lives. Our attorneys will be your dedicated allies, working diligently to build a strong defense and achieve a favorable resolution.
Don’t wait to get the aggressive legal representation you need. Contact Riccio Law today for a free and confidential consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and start building your defense strategy. With offices in Quincy and Attleboro, we proudly serve clients throughout Massachusetts.
Call (617)-404-8878 or fill out our online form now to schedule your free case evaluation. Let us fight for you.