Saco, ME OUI Lawyer For A First Offense OUI

If you’ve recently been arrested for your first OUI in Saco, Maine, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unsure of what comes next. That’s completely understandable. Being charged with Operating Under the Influence for the first time is a serious matter, but you are not alone.

As a seasoned Saco OUI lawyer with extensive experience helping first-time offenders in York County, I’m here to walk you through every step of the legal process and help you protect your rights, your license, and your future.

If you’ve been charged with OUI and aren’t sure what to do next, call 1-888-839-4384 or use our online contact form to schedule a FREE CONSULTATION with an OUI lawyer in Saco, ME now!

What to Expect After a First OUI Arrest in Saco

An arrest for OUI typically begins with a traffic stop, perhaps for swerving, speeding, or some other minor infraction that leads to a field sobriety test or breathalyzer. If you are found with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or greater, or if you refuse a test under Maine’s implied consent law, you can be arrested on suspicion of OUI.

Once you’ve been arrested, the clock starts ticking on several important deadlines:

• Administrative license suspension: The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) may automatically suspend your license unless you request a hearing within 10 days.
• Criminal proceedings: You will be given a court date for arraignment, where you’ll enter a plea.

These are not minor formalities. Your driving privileges, freedom, and record are all on the line — especially in a first OUI case where you may be unfamiliar with the system.

This is the time to contact a Saco OUI lawyer who understands the local court procedures and Maine’s unique OUI laws.

 

Why You Need a Local Saco OUI Lawyer on Your Side

Choosing a local attorney matters. As a Saco OUI lawyer, I regularly appear in Biddeford District Court at the York Judicial Center, where most Saco OUI cases are heard. I understand how local prosecutors handle first-time OUI cases and what diversionary options or negotiated pleas may be available. In some cases, it may be possible to reduce or even dismiss the charges depending on the circumstances of the stop, the testing methods used, or your cooperation with law enforcement.

More importantly, I will evaluate the details of your drunk driving arrest, including whether the police officer had probable cause, whether field sobriety tests were administered correctly, and whether the breath or blood tests were lawfully obtained and reliable. These technical OUI defenses can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Penalties for a First OUI in Saco

Under Maine law, a first OUI conviction carries serious consequences and mandatory minimum penalties, even if no accident or injury occurred.

You may be facing:

• A mandatory minimum 150-day license suspension
• A minimum fine of $500
• Possible jail sentence if aggravating factors were present (e.g., BAC of 0.15% or higher, having a minor in the vehicle, or causing an accident)
• Mandatory participation in the DEEP (Driver Education and Evaluation Program) for driver’s license reinstatement
• A permanent criminal record

Even though these are standard penalties, every case is unique.

As your criminal defense lawyer, I will work to minimize or avoid these OUI penalties by building the strongest possible defense.

Your Rights and Options as a First-Time Offender

If this is your first encounter with the legal system, it’s important to know that you still have rights — and options. First-time OUI offenders may be eligible for reduced criminal charges, deferred dispositions, or alternative sentencing. If your arrest involved procedural errors or weak evidence, we may be able to challenge the case altogether.

I will explain your legal options in plain language, help you understand what each path entails, and work with you to choose the one that offers the best outcome for your future. Whether that means negotiating a plea, pursuing a dismissal, or taking your case to trial, I’ll be in your corner.

Moving Forward After a First OUI Arrest

An OUI arrest can feel like the end of the road, but it’s not. With the right legal representation, it can be a turning point.

As your Saco OUI lawyer, I’ll not only help you fight OUI charges but also assist you with the collateral consequences that can come with an OUI arrest, including:

• Seeking a work-restricted drivers license or ignition interlock
• Addressing insurance rate increases or SR-22 requirements
• Helping you understand how this may impact job applications or professional licenses

My goal is to help you come through this experience with your dignity, your license, and your future intact.

 

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

If you’re facing your first OUI in Saco, don’t wait. Time is a critical factor, especially when it comes to protecting your driver’s license and building your defense.

Call me today at 1-888-839-4384 to schedule a free consultation.

Let’s talk about your case, your options, and how we can move forward — together.