BLOG: Holiday celebrations lead to increase in OUI arrests

The Holiday Season in Maine is a magical time of year. Cities and Towns throughout Maine are decorated with lights, ornaments, and holiday displays. Retailers open their doors longer, and Mainers celebrate the spirit of the season. Holiday cheer is in the air!

Increased OUI arrests during the holidays

The holidays bring an increased amount of merriment and holiday parties, whether they be with co-workers, friends, or family. During the holiday season, the weather worsens and the days become shorter. All of these factors increase the risk of being charged with a criminal offense of Operating Under the Influence of Intoxicating Liquors (“OUI”).

At Douglas McDaniel Campo & Schools, we understand that unfortunate events can occur during even the most celebratory of times. We understand that individuals generally do not intend to leave a holiday party, be pulled over by law enforcement, be subjected to a battery of field sobriety tests, and subsequently be charged with an OUI criminal offense. Many first-time drunk driving arrests are of individuals who are otherwise law abiding citizens who may have had no prior involvement with the criminal justice system. Many first-time OUI offenders don’t realize that they are under the influence of alcohol until it is too late and they are being asked to perform field sobriety tests, or blow into an Intoxilyzer at their local police department. We understand that holiday activities can put folks in compromising positions, which can ultimately result in an OUI charge with significant collateral consequences. Remember – if you are driving impaired, and your faculties are impaired from alcohol to a degree, “no matter how slight,” you can be charged with an OUI in Maine.

How can an experienced Maine OUI lawyer help?

At Douglas McDaniel Campo & Schools, our OUI attorneys defend drivers who have been charged with drunk driving (and other motor vehicle offenses) in Maine. We have the background, knowledge and tenacity to obtain the best possible results for you and your unique situation. If you have a pending OUI charge, you are understandably going through a stressful experience. We will work to protect your rights and provide you with the best possible OUI defense.

If you find yourself with a summons to appear in court for an OUI charge, we can help you navigate through the court system and the State of Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles Administrative Hearing process. Our firm offers competitive OUI criminal defense rates. Please call today to inquire about our flat fees for Maine OUI defense, and to schedule your free OUI consultation with one of our attorneys.

We at Douglas McDaniel Campo & Schools wish you a safe and happy holidays and hope that you take preventative measures to avoid a drinking and driving charge.

— Posted by Attorney Benjamin P. Campo, Jr.