Yes. A first-offense OUI under M.G.L. c. 90 § 24 is a criminal charge that, even on a CWOF, counts as a prior for life. A second offense within ten years triggers mandatory jail time and a two-year license suspension. The 24D disposition most first-timers accept requires an admission to sufficient facts, probation, an alcohol education program, and a 45 to 90 day license loss. A skilled OUI lawyer examines the stop, field sobriety tests, breath test calibration records, and booking video. Many first-offense cases have defensible issues a prosecutor will not volunteer. Our Massachusetts DUI lawyer page goes deeper on 24D and breath test litigation.
