Protecting Your Career: OUI Defense For CDL Holders In Boston
When a commercial driver’s license holder gets an OUI in Massachusetts, it can have a significant effect on their career. Losing a license is not just an inconvenience but something that makes it impossible for them to work and could affect their career long-term. This leads to major financial ramifications that go beyond fines, fees and jail time.
This is why it is so important for CDL holders to understand their legal defense options, and the Law Offices of Lefteris K. Travayiakis, P.C. can help at this critical time. Founding attorney Lefteris K. Travayiakis has years of experience in this area of the law and offers free initial consultations. If you want to learn more about OUI defense for CDL holders, call now.
The .04% BAC Rule For Commercial Drivers
Many people believe that the legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08%, and this is true for many drivers. But the BAC limit for CDL holders in Massachusetts is set at half this amount, or .04%. This is true even when operating a personal vehicle and applies 24 hours a day. An OUI charge is, therefore, much easier to get for someone who has a CDL.
The High Stakes Of An OUI: CDL Disqualification
Even for a first-time conviction on OUI charges, there will be an immediate disqualification of the person’s commercial driver’s license. This lasts for a minimum of 12 months. The penalties escalate for any subsequent offenses. But even without any record, a driver would lose their license for a year.
Why CDL Holders Need A Dual Defense Strategy
An experienced law firm will use a dual-focused defense plan for OUIs involving CDLs, focused equally on the criminal court case and the disqualification hearing with the federal Department of Transportation. Securing a dismissal of the charges or a “not guilty” verdict is generally the only way to save one’s CDL.
Understanding The Limits To Hardship Licenses
When people who are not commercial drivers get an OUI, they can sometimes get a hardship license that allows them to continue driving for necessary purposes, like going to work. However, there is no hardship license for commercial drivers on OUI charges. Since this is not available, post-conviction relief should not be the focus, but rather defending against the drunk driving charges. Given the high stakes—a conviction could end a commercial driving career—it is imperative to hire an experienced defense attorney who understands the nuances of Massachusetts OUI law and can vigorously fight for a dismissal or acquittal.
Call For A Free Consultation Today
To learn more about your CDL OUI defense options in Boston, call the firm at 617-657-2333 or use the online contact form to set up your free initial consultation.