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Child Endangerment DUI

Worcester Child Endangerment While OUI Lawyers
Serving Worcester, Middlesex and Hampden Counties

Massachusetts courts take an OUI charge with a child in the vehicle especially seriously. A child endangerment DUI charge can be added on top of a standard OUI, meaning a conviction on both means serving two separate sentences. Rudolf, Griffis, Ruggieri & Murray provides experienced representation to help clients facing this charge seek the best possible outcome.

Penalties For Child Endangerment While OUI

  • Fines: $1,000 to $5,000 for a first offense, $5,000 to $10,000 for subsequent offenses.
  • Imprisonment: 90 days to two and a half years in a house of correction, or up to five years in state prison.
  • Loss of driving privileges: Extended beyond what a standard OUI conviction would carry.

Even for a first OUI, prosecutors typically pursue harsher penalties in child endangerment cases, and a first offender program may not be available. Custody of your children can also be affected, making experienced representation critical.

Frequently Asked Questions

A child 14 years old or younger in the vehicle at the time of the OUI can trigger this additional charge. Since 2005, Massachusetts law allows child endangerment while OUI to be added on top of a standard OUI charge.

It’s possible. Beyond the criminal penalties, a child endangerment OUI charge can factor into custody proceedings. Addressing the criminal case with experienced representation is an important step in protecting your parental rights as well.

Often not. Prosecutors typically pursue harsher penalties in these cases and may not offer the 24D first offender program that’s available for standard first time OUI charges, making the defense strategy especially important.

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