DUI ATTORNEY

Hire the Most Trusted DUI Attorney in  Bristol, Norfolk, & Plymouth Counties, Massachusetts

A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) arrest can be a frightening and confusing experience. The BAC limit for a DUI charge in Massachusetts is .08% for all drivers over the age of 21. DUI conviction can result in fines, jail time, and license suspension. 


Our qualified DUI attorneys are here to provide an unwavering defense to protect your rights, freedom, and future prospects. Our team, led by Michael P. Carroll, will analyze the basis of the allegation from every possible angle. As such, we will go through the details of your arrest, scrutinize the legality of the traffic stop, and the administration of field sobriety tests.

Our in-depth knowledge of Massachusetts DUI laws allows us to identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution's case and explore opportunities to suppress evidence if law enforcement violated your rights. Whether you're facing a first-time offense or a subsequent DUI charge, we fight tirelessly to protect your driver's license and minimize the consequences you face. 


Please get in touch with us today for more information.

Building a DUI Case in Massachusetts - Key Steps

Securing a DUI conviction requires the prosecution to prove specific elements beyond a reasonable doubt. Below, we have highlighted the specific elements the prosecution must prove for a DUI charge:

  • Motor Vehicle Operation
  • Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Level
  • Impaired Driving Ability
  • Refusal of Chemical Testing
  • Prior DUI Convictions
  • Aggravating Circumstances (e.g., driving with a minor in the vehicle, causing injury or property damage, or having an exceptionally high BAC level)

Take Prompt Action

Facing a DUI charge requires proactive steps on your part. Here's what you can do to strengthen your defense:

Gather Evidence

Collect any documentation related to the arrest, including the police report and any witness statements you can obtain.

Recall Details

While memories may blur, try to recall the events leading up to your arrest as accurately as possible. Do note down details like the time of day, weather conditions, and any medications you consumed beforehand.

Avoid Self-Incrimination

Do not admit guilt to the arresting officer or discuss the details of your case on social media.

Seek Legal Counsel

Contact an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible. The sooner they can begin investigating your case, the better chance is your chances of getting an acquittal.

Be Honest and Transparent

During your consultation with your attorney, be completely honest about the details of your arrest. Withholding critical information will not go in your favor.

GET A QUOTE

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

If you need a lawyer Michael Carroll is the way to go. Knowledgeable, and professional can't think of anyone else better. If ever need lawyer again he's who I will call!

Mike S.

Grateful for Mike’s help! He is professional, supportive, and responded quickly to my questions. The legal system can be overwhelming and Mike helped me make sense of it. He is not only knowledgeable and experienced, but also friendly and easy to talk to. He charged a very fair price for the value of his services. I highly recommend.

Colleen C.

He listened to me and was by my side through the whole process. The road was hard at times but the outcome of my divorce was better than I expected.

Sylvia S.

Mike is a great attorney with superb negotiating skills. Mike is the go-to person any time I need to run a case by him for his opinion. Mike has a great knowledge of the defense side of a case having been a BI adjuster for many years.

Jeffrey L.

Expertly helped very quickly (with time constraints) and efficiently with great professionalism and affability. Would absolutely recommend his services.

Dante B.

Most excellent lawyer- very hard worker-easy to talk to -always looks out for my better behalf. totally happy !

Steve L.

Types of DUI Cases We Handle

First-Time DUI Offenses

A first-time DUI conviction can lead to fines, license suspension, and even jail time, leaving a lasting impact on your record. Our experienced attorneys work to reduce penalties, explore diversion programs, and negotiate for dismissal or lesser charges whenever possible.

Repeat DUI Offenses

If you have prior DUI convictions, the penalties increase significantly, including longer license suspensions and potential jail time. We fight to reduce or dismiss charges to prevent severe consequences.

 Felony DUI Charges

A DUI may be charged as a felony if it involves:

  • Multiple prior DUI convictions
  • An accident resulting in injury or death
  • Driving under the influence with a minor in the car

We aggressively defend felony DUI cases to protect your freedom and future.

DUI Involving Drugs (DUID)

Driving under the influence of prescription, illegal, or recreational drugs carries the same penalties as an alcohol-related DUI. We challenge the evidence, testing methods, and officer observations to build a strong defense.

Underage DUI

Drivers under 21 years old face zero-tolerance laws, meaning even a BAC as low as 0.01% can result in penalties. We help young drivers and their families navigate the legal system and work to protect their future.

How a DUI Attorney Can Help

  • Protecting Your Driver’s License: One of the most immediate concerns after a DUI arrest is license suspension, which can impact your ability to work, attend school, and manage daily responsibilities. We assist clients in requesting DMV hearings to contest the suspension and fight to retain their driving privileges. In cases where a suspension is unavoidable, we work to secure alternatives such as restricted or hardship licenses, allowing you to continue driving under certain conditions. 


  • Reducing or Dismissing Charges: A DUI conviction can result in serious legal and financial penalties, but not all DUI cases are clear-cut. Our attorneys thoroughly analyze the evidence, identifying flaws in breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and police procedures. We negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges, obtain dismissals, or secure alternative sentencing options, helping clients avoid severe repercussions. 


  • Representing You in Court: If your case proceeds to trial, you need a strong legal advocate on your side. We aggressively challenge evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and question law enforcement's procedures to build a compelling defense. Our goal is to create reasonable doubt and fight for an acquittal or reduced penalties. 


  • Helping You Avoid Harsh Penalties: A DUI conviction can lead to jail time, heavy fines, probation, and mandatory DUI programs. We advocate for diversion programs, rehabilitation, or community service as alternatives to incarceration, working to protect your future and minimize long-term consequences.

Choose Us for Microscopic Analysis & Robust Legal Defense

DUI charges are notoriously challenging due to tight deadlines and time-consuming technical procedures, such as Field sobriety tests (FSTs) and breathalyzer tests. Our extensive experience in DUI defense enables us to successfully identify and challenge any technical errors in the reports and evidence. 


We are well-familiar with the full scope of potential repercussions. Our DUI lawyer can help minimize collateral consequences such as loss of employment opportunities, and the ability to rent a car and to travel to certain countries. 


Book your consultation today. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should I do immediately after being arrested for a DUI in Massachusetts?

    If you're arrested for DUI, remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not admit guilt or answer any questions beyond providing basic identification. Contact an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights. Avoid discussing your case with law enforcement without legal representation, as anything you say can be used against you. Time is critical—Massachusetts has strict deadlines for contesting license suspensions, so securing legal counsel quickly can significantly impact your case.

  • Will my driver's license be suspended after a DUI arrest?

    Yes, Massachusetts has an immediate license suspension policy for DUI arrests. If you refuse a breathalyzer test, your license is suspended for at least 180 days. If you fail the test (BAC of 0.08% or higher), your license is suspended for 30 days. You may request a hearing within 15 days of arrest to challenge the suspension. Hiring a skilled DUI attorney can improve your chances of getting your license reinstated or securing a hardship license.

  • Can I get a DUI even if I wasn’t driving?

    Yes, Massachusetts has an "operation" law, meaning you can be charged with DUI even if your vehicle is not moving. If you're in the driver’s seat with the keys in the ignition, or if there’s evidence that you recently operated the vehicle while impaired, you could still be arrested. This law is broadly interpreted, making it crucial to have a strong legal defense to challenge the evidence of "operation."

  • How can a DUI attorney help my case?

    A skilled DUI attorney examines every detail of your case, from the legality of the traffic stop to the accuracy of field sobriety and breathalyzer tests. They can challenge unreliable evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, and identify procedural errors that may lead to case dismissal. An attorney also helps navigate court proceedings, license hearings, and plea negotiations, ensuring the best possible outcome based on your circumstances.

  • What are the penalties for a first-time DUI in Massachusetts?

    A first-time DUI offense can result in up to 2.5 years in jail, fines up to $5,000, and a one-year license suspension. However, first-time offenders may qualify for an alternative disposition, including probation, alcohol education programs, and reduced license suspension. A DUI attorney can assess whether you’re eligible for alternative sentencing and work to minimize penalties.

  • Are breathalyzer tests always accurate?

    No, breathalyzer results are not always reliable. Factors like improper calibration, medical conditions, or even mouthwash can cause false positives. In Massachusetts, the accuracy of breathalyzer devices has been legally challenged, leading to suppressed results in many cases. An experienced DUI attorney can analyze whether your breath test was conducted properly and challenge its validity in court.

  • What is the difference between an OUI and a DUI in Massachusetts?

    Massachusetts law uses the term "OUI" (Operating Under the Influence) instead of "DUI" (Driving Under the Influence). The two terms mean the same thing—both refer to operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. The state’s laws focus on "operation" rather than "driving," meaning you don’t need to be actively moving the vehicle to be charged.

  • Can I refuse a field sobriety test in Massachusetts?

    Yes, you have the right to refuse field sobriety tests without automatic penalties. These tests are highly subjective, and failure is often based on officer judgment rather than scientific accuracy. However, refusing a breathalyzer test triggers an automatic license suspension under Massachusetts’ implied consent law. An attorney can help you understand the consequences of refusals and develop a defense strategy.

  • What if I was arrested for DUI with a child in the car?

    DUI charges become significantly more severe if a child under 14 is in the vehicle. This can lead to additional charges of child endangerment, which carry harsher penalties, including increased fines, longer license suspension, and possible jail time. Massachusetts courts treat these cases seriously, and a strong legal defense is crucial to mitigate penalties.

  • Is a DUI conviction permanent on my record?

    A DUI conviction in Massachusetts stays on your criminal record permanently, as the state does not allow expungement for DUI offenses. However, an experienced DUI attorney may help you avoid conviction through case dismissal, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing options, which can minimize long-term consequences.

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