April 17, 2025
Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol (1st Offense),
Possession of Open Container,
Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle
Client was a positive, and enthusiastic young man charged with Operating Under the Influence, Possession of an Open Container, and Negligent Operation of a Motor Vehicle. He had been driving home after a casual get-together with friends when he passed by police officers who were responding to an unrelated car accident. Although driving at an appropriate speed, officers observed that Client was traveling the wrong way down a one-way street. The vehicle was visibly damaged, and the client was soaked in blood. Police made a polite inquiry, and Client was surprised to learn he had entered a one-way. Officers, concerned for his well-being, spoke further with Client and determined that although he felt he was okay to drive, his condition clearly demonstrated he was not in a state to safely operate a vehicle. He was cited and the case proceeded through the court system. After consultation with Client and the District Attorney, Attorney Barabino successfully negotiated dismissal of both the alcohol-related open container charge and the negligent operation charge. These dismissals were particularly important to the client, as they avoided a mandatory $500 fine and license surcharge. As to the OUI charge, Attorney Barabino ensured that client received the lightest sentence permitted by law, an outcome that will result in dismissal of the charge after one year upon successful completion of standard probationary conditions.
RESULT: First Offense OUI resolved; Collateral issues resolved.