OUI Attorneys & OUI Lawyers - OUI Defense (Operating Under the Influence)

What Do OUI Attorneys Do?

OUI attorneys deal with Operating Under the Influence. The word "operating" is actually more encompassing (and more accurate) than "driving" because almost all states make it illegal to "operate or be in actual physical control" of a motor vehicle. This means that you can be sitting in your car, off the side of the road, with the engine running and the car in park, and asleep, yet still be charged with OUI (or DUI or DWI, for that matter, in most states). The states that have OUI as their acronym are Maine, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.

Attorneys categorize OUI as similar to other drunk driving offenses; a person is guilty of OUI when he or she drives or is in actual physical control of a motor vehicle and is under the influence of alcoholic beverages, any chemical or controlled substance to the extent that his or her mental faculties are impaired or when his or her blood alcohol level (BAC) is above the legal limit for the state.

OUI and other offenses involving the operation of a vehicle while intoxicated are criminal law matters, which could potentially incur a felony conviction and possibly a prison sentence, depending on how serious the charges are. Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense, you should contact a OUI attorney immediately.

New "Per Se" Offense Has Been Enacted

In recent years, all 50 states and the District of Columbia have enacted a second, "per se", offense: driving with an excessive blood-alcohol concentration (typically .08%). BOTH offenses are charged, and you can even be convicted of both.

DMV Administrative Actions

In addition to the criminal OUI charges brought, your state's department of motor vehicles can also take a variety of administrative actions against you whether or not you are actually convicted. Please refer to drunk driving defense form more information about this and other criminal charges that may be brought.

Should I hire a OUI Lawyer?

Because OUI laws are so complex, you not only need to hire an OUI attorney, but one who specifically specializes in OUI defense. OUI lawyers know that some of the enforcement and judicial procedures are unconstitutional and violate motorists' rights. They are more well versed with the different sobriety tests and their varying accuracy levels. Don't give up your rights. Contact an experienced OUI attorney who understands your particular needs and situation.