Massachusetts has a range of penalties applicable to offenders arrested on DUI charges. The stiffness of the penalty depends on the type of offense committed, the result of the offense, and the number of times the offender has committed a DUI offense in the past. For offenders arrested for the first time, the DUI penalties consist of a maximum jail sentence of not more than 2 years. Fines imposed may range from $500 to $5000. The license is also suspended for one year. Work or education hardship licenses are considered in three months and a general hardship license in 6 months. For those arrested for second offenses, the jail sentence is not less than 60 days, of which 30 days are mandatory, and a maximum sentence of not more than 2 years. Fines range from $600 - $10,000. Licenses will be suspended for two years with the ability to apply for a work or education hardship license in one year and a general hardship license in 1 years. Alternative disposition bargains for second offense DUI offenders include a probation period of two years as well as a 14 day confined treatment program paid for by the offender. An interlock device must also be installed on the offender's car at the owner's expense for two years. Third time offenders face jail sentences of not less than 180 days and not more than five years. A 150 day jail sentence is mandatory. These sentences may be served in a prison treatment program. Fines of $1,000 to $15,000 can be imposed. The license in suspended for eight years with a work or education hardship license in two years and a general hardship license in 4 years. Furthermore, the state is entitled to seize, keep, and sell the person's vehicle. For fourth offenses, the jail sentences in not less than two years, of which one year is mandatory, and not more than five years. Fines range from $1,500 to $25,000. The offender's license is suspended for 10 years, with a work or education hardship license considered in five years and a general hardship license considered in 8 years. |
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