PRO

Licensed for 27 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at Rockland, MA
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI, Criminal Defense, Unknown

Virtual Consultation Available

Free Consultation

About James

Biography

Attorney James Milligan

Managing Partner of Milligan & Higgins
Board Certified Massachusetts Drunk Driving Defense Attorney

Attorney James Milligan over his 28 year career stands as one of Massachusetts' most distinguished and accomplished OUI defense attorneys, bringing unparalleled expertise and a proven track record to every case. With consistently impressive trial results, Attorney Milligan tries well over 60 OUI cases annually, maintaining an exceptional 90% acquittal rate that demonstrates his mastery of drunk driving defense.

As one of only two Board Certified OUI lawyers in Massachusetts, Attorney Milligan possesses specialized credentials that set him apart in the field. His expertise is further evidenced by his role as chair of the Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education statewide OUI seminar, a position he has held for 19 years, where he educates fellow attorneys on the intricacies of OUI defense.

This exceptional success rate reflects his thorough preparation, comprehensive understanding of OUI law, and skilled courtroom advocacy. Widely recognized as one of the foremost experts in the OUI field throughout Massachusetts, Attorney Milligan is respected by colleagues and peers as a thorough and meticulously prepared attorney. His extensive knowledge of drunk driving defense law (OUI, DWI, DUI) and seasoned trial experience have earned him a reputation as a go-to attorney for complex OUI cases.

Attorney Milligan handles more drunk driving cases annually than most attorneys encounter in their entire careers, providing him with invaluable real-world experience across all types of OUI situations. His extensive trial experience spans courts throughout the Commonwealth, giving him comprehensive knowledge of local procedures and judicial preferences.

As an active member of prestigious legal organizations including the National College for DUI Defense (NCDD) and DUI Defense Lawyers Association (DUIDLA), Attorney Milligan remains at the forefront of developments in OUI defense law and maintains the highest professional standards.

Whether facing a first-time OUI charge or a complex repeat offense, clients can trust Attorney Milligan's proven expertise, exceptional trial skills, and unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for every case.

Don't take another chance. You need proven and powerful drunk driving representation. Free Case Eval

Massachusetts Board Certified Drunk Driving Defense Attorney. Proven and Powerful Results.

Practice Areas

DUI and DWI 90%

Attorney James Milligan is one of just a few lawyers in Massachusetts who is board certified in drunk driving defense as recognized by the American Bar Association. Concentrating his practice entirely on Massachusetts drunk driving defense, OUI defense, DUI defense, and DWI defense, Attorney Milligan is often the best resource for other lawyers representing a client charged with drunk driving in Massachusetts.

29 years

90%

Criminal Defense 5%

Other 5%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 30 minutes

Payment Methods

Cash
Check
Credit Card

Awards

2025 2024 2023

...

+ 13

Licenses

Licensed in Massachusetts for 27 years

State: Massachusetts

Acquired: 1998

Active

No misconduct found

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Location

Milligan & Higgins

(781) 878-6550

Fax

300 Ledgewood Place, Suite 201, Rockland, MA, 02370

milliganhiggins.com/

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Attorney James Milligan

867 Boylston Street, Suite 5000, Boston, MA, 02116

milliganhiggins.com/

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Attorney James Milligan

100 Independence Drive, Suite 7 #481, Hyannis, MA, 02601

milliganhiggins.com/

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Online Presence

Other places you can find James online.

James M. Milligan Jr.'s Reviews

Overall Rating
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.

4.0 /5.0

205 Client Reviews

Avvo

5.0

(203)

Lawyers.com

3.0

(2 )

See client reviews from Lawyers.com

Showing 161 - 165 of 203 reviews

Posted by Christine | February 13, 2013 | DUI & DWI

James Milligan is OUTSTANDING!

James Milligan has "saved my life"... twice. I first started working with James (Jay) when i was 20 years old. I had gone through a road block, took field sobriety test & was arrested by the Massachusetts State Police for an OUI charge. Being under 21, i was looking at a loss of license for 3 years. ...Jay had looked over my case and pealed back any mistakes or questionable things the police had done and got my license back after 30 days and had to go to alcohol classes for 3 months. When the trial date came, the case was dismissed. I was so relieved and couldn't of asked for a better lawyer than Jay. About 6 months ago, i was pulled over for a moving lane violation, where the State Trooper had come to the conclusion that i was operating under the influence. I refused the field sobriety this time, but agreed to go into the station with the trooper to take the breathalyzer. Once i got to the police station i politely asked if i could call my lawyer (Jay), I wasn't sure if i was making the right decision. I called Jay at 1:00am and left him a message. He immediately called me back and walked me through the steps of what i needed to do, so I took the breathalyzer. When the trooper told me the results of the breathalyzer test, he had informed me that i "passed" with a .07. Relieved, i got a ride from the barracks to my home (i still have to get my car out of the tow yard later that day). Once the morning came, i had to go to the court house for my summons. Before i walked in Jay had called me to see how it all went. I informed him that i passed with a .07 and that i was at the court house and didnt understand why i had to be there if i passed. Jay took the time to explain to me that just because my first OUI was dismissed, i can still be on trial for a 2nd offense, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts can prosecute a .06 or a .07. Later that day i went to Jay's office, showed him all of the police reports etc. Once again, He amazed me with all of the things he found wrong with the report. I never had a loss of license, i didn't have to take any courses or anything like that, and just yesterday we went to trial for my case. I must admit i had gotten a little nervous hearing the Commonwealth question the arresting trooper. Now it was Jay's turn. The second i heard him start talking i knew i was in good hands. All of my nerves went away as i listened to Jay question him. In the end, the judge (i waived my right to a jury) had found me not guilty. It was like a weight was lifted off my shoulders and i sighed with relief. Walking out, i shook Jay's had and couldn't stop thanking him. I have without a doubt learned my lesson. I have been recommending Jay since my first arrest, five years later i will never forget what he has done for me. If you need a fantastic lawyer who actually cares about you and your life. Call Jay. He is the best attorney out there for a reason, you wont be disappointed. THANK YOU JAY!!!

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Posted by Bernie | January 30, 2013 | DUI & DWI

Would easily recommend

I was dealing with a suspicion of OUI 2nd offense. Contacted my lawyer from my previous offense in my home state and he recommended Jay Milligan. Called Jay and he told me exactly what to do when I went to my arraignment. Met Jay later in the week and he told me step by step how everything was going ...to go. Answered all questions and gave no false promises. That morning before I called Jay I had a lawyer contact me (I was desperately searching before my previous lawyer gave me Jays name) and the first thing the lawyer said was "Ill send you over an agreement"....avoid that stuff. Jay is a GREAT attorney with a solid track record of excellent results. I was at ease watching Jay work in the courtroom. Honestly, I was amazed at his work. My case took nearly 9 months to finally get completed, but every time I had a question/concern/comment, Jay was able to answer. I would recommend him to anyone who needs help. I could not thank Jay enough.

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Posted by desimonekds | December 14, 2012 | DUI & DWI

Proffesional and Educated I highly recommend James Milligan

James M Milligan was a plesure to work with. He answerd all my questions, kept me informed and was the backbone to my case. I was pulled over on a suspected 2nd oui offence. I didnt know who to turn to till I read this lawers reviews. When I called him his knowleade gave me the confidence that I woul...d win my case if I hired him. Not only did he get me my licence back, he got it back before the jury trial date and sure enough I was proven not guilty. He not only defends oui cases he does all sorts. If in need of any type of lawer I highly recommend him.

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Posted by Tyler L. | December 13, 2012 | DUI & DWI

Superior

I was charged with suspicion of OUI, in Weymouth, MA earlier in the year. I chose Attorney Milligan first and foremost because he was the only attorney to call me back right away. Upon talking with James and describing my case to him he asked me to email him any documents I had for him to look over,d...espite the fact he was away on vacation. These small details showed me the professionalism that James carried with himself, and set the course for how we would do business together. James continued to pave the way for a successful trial, in which any question was answered, and any uneasiness assured. My confidence grew as James showed his prowess in the courtroom, and his knowledge of the law. Although no guarantees were given for how the outcome would unfold, I knew James would be looking out for me. On the day of my trial I knew I had the best on my side when I heard the DA say to the Judge, and I quote " Attorney Milligan has torpedoed 95% of our case, Your Honor". It was at that trial when my OUI charge was dismissed, all thanks to Attorney James Milligan Jr.

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Posted by anonymous | October 16, 2012 | DUI & DWI

Miracle Worker

It is pretty safe for me to say that Defense Attorney Jay Milligan is a life saver. At the age of 19 I was in a car accident and arrested for an OUI. Not knowing I was allowed to deny the breathalizer, I took it and blew a .18. However I wasn't nearly that intoxicated and my sobriety tests proved thi...s. After reading my police report, Jay didn't think the sobriety tests matched up with my BAC so he asked if I had a history of acid reflex, which I do. He began to tell me that acid reflex has a high percent of error with breathalizers because the air comes from your stomache not your lungs, and he knew a specialist who could speak about this to a jury. My case dragged on for a long fourteen months, repeatedly being pushed back for reasons that were no fault of my own. No matter how many times Jay asked for it to be dismissed the judge would not budge. At one point he even said to me that even though I may have a good lawyer, he's no miracle worker and the commonwealth has a good case against me. It was extremely nerve racking point in my life but everytime I met with Jay he was very confident about my case which made it a lot easier to deal with. October 9th, 2012 my jury trial finally went foward and I am blessed to say that I was found not guilty and it was all thanks to Jay. I would highly recommend him to anyone under any circumstance.

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James M. Milligan Jr.'s Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse James

Michael Judge

DUI and DWI lawyer | Jul 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Milligan has an exceptional reputation in the Area of DUI Defense in Massachusetts. I would highly recommend his services."

George Papachristos

DUI and DWI lawyer | Feb 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"One of the best attorneys in the field. I had the pleasure of getting to know Attorney Milligan's skills when dealing with him as a prosecutor. He was always prepared, and presented all his clients' cases with a polished and distinguished presence. Highly recommended. GP"

Michael Monopoli

Criminal defense lawyer | May 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He is a very competent and skilled lawyer. He gets exceptional results"

Gregory Noble

DUI and DWI lawyer | Apr 04

Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse Attorney James “Jay” Milligan Jr. I first met Jay when I was a prosecutor in the Plymouth County DA's office. As opposing counsel, Attorney Milligan is a formidable opponent but always a professional. Jay was always the first attorney at the courthouse and was always prepared for trial. I now have the privilege of working with Attorney Milligan as a DUI Defense Attorney. Jay’s knowledge of the law and trial practice are unmatched in the field of Massachusetts DUI Defense and RMV Representation. Accordingly he is one of only a few attorneys in Massachusetts to be Board Certified in the field of Drunk Driving Defense. Attorney Milligan provides each client with the proven powerful drunk driving representation that only he can. He is a valued mentor to me and a passionate advocated for his clients. I highly endorse Attorney Jay Milligan."

Joseph Higgins

DUI and DWI lawyer | Nov 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have had the pleasure of working closely with Attorney Milligan, both during my time as a prosecutor and now as a fellow member of the OUI/DUI/DWI defense bar. For me to say that Jay "raises the bar" would be an understatement. His knowledge of the law, his commitment to the interests of his clients, and his work ethic go unmatched. He has a proven track record of success that is undoubtedly the product of his character, hard work, and devotion to the practice of law. I highly endorse Attorney Milligan and would recommend him to anyone facing a drunk driving charge."

Nicolas Gordon

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"One of the best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Massachusetts. Gets amazing results for his clients. Very experienced, highly skilled and he genuinely cares about people. I have referred several clients to him in the past and he has achieved extraordinary results"

Donald Ramsell

DUI and DWI lawyer | Dec 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly recommend Jay Milligan if you or a loved one has been charged with drunk driving. Jay is a diligent and conscientious lawyer, well-respected in the legal community."

James Powderly

Criminal defense lawyer | Sep 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Milligan is a talented and competitive defense lawyer who truly goes to bat for his clients. I recently witnessed him first hand in a felony trial where it was clear the prosecutor was outmatched (Not Guilty verdict followed). I would recommend his services to anyone facing criminal prosecution in Massachusetts."

John Webb

DUI and DWI lawyer | Sep 15

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have had the honor of working with James "Jay" Milligan, Sr., on several matters that involve mutual clients due to the relative proximity of Maine to Massachusetts. Jay is the "go to guy" when it comes to issues involving the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. He is not only a strong and highly competent fighter for his clients in the courtroom, but also has a superior working knowledge of motor vehicles suspensions, how to fight them, how to beat them, and if need be, how to minimize them. Not only is he one of the top DUI\DWI Attorneys in the Commonwealth, he is also a compassionate and caring individual who works closely with clients and keeps their best interests at heart. If you have been charged with DUI/DWI or any motor vehicle crime in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Jay Milligan, Sr. can be counted on to fight for the citizen accused."

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Joseph Higgins

DUI and DWI lawyer

Experience

Rating: 10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2013

Preeminent 5.0 out of 5, Martindale-Hubbell

2013

Rising Star, Super Lawyers

2012

Preeminent 5.0 out of 5, Martindale-Hubbell

2011

Preeminent 5.0 out of 5, Martindale-Hubbell

2010

Preeminent Client Review Rating, Martindale-Hubbell

2009

Preeminent 5.0 out of 5, Martindale-Hubbell

2008

Preeminent Client Review Rating, Martindale-Hubbell

2007

Preeminent 5.0 out of 5, Martindale-Hubbell

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Work Experience

2010 - Present

Attorney, Attorney James Milligan Law Office

2000 - 2010

DUI OUI Attorney, Jones, Milligan & Geraghty

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Associations

2010 - Present

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc.

Chair

2000 - Present

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

2000 - Present

National College of DUI Defense

Member

1998 - Present

Massachusetts Bar Association

Member

1998 - Present

Massachusetts Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Member

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Sample of Legal Cases

Commonwealth v. R.L. (Lynn District Court)

Not Guilty

Commonwealth v. P.H (Plymouth District Court)

Not Guilty

Commonwealth v. E.D – Quincy District Court

Not Guilty

Commonwealth v. R.L. (Lynn District Court)

Not Guilty

Commonwealth v. S.Y. – Wrentham Distric Court

Not Guilty

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Education

1998

Massachusetts School of Law at Andover

JD - Juris Doctor

1995

Allegheny College

BA - Bachelor of Arts

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Speaking Engagements

2010

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc.

Handling OUI Cases

2010

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc.

Massachusetts Auto Stops

2010

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc.

OUI Summit - Drunk Driving Defense

2009

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc.

Law and Science of Traffic Defense

2009

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc.

Massachusetts Auto Stops

2008

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc.

Litigating OUI Cases

2007

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc.

Criminal Law Practice Forum

2006

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc.

Criminal Law Conference

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Publications

2010

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. ("MCLE") Handling Massachusetts OUI Cases

2010

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education, Inc. ("MCLE") Massachusetts Auot Stops

2010

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) OUI Drunk Driving Defense

2008

Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) Litigating OUI Cases

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Languages

English

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Activity

Legal Answers

Legal Guides

Legal Answers

Q&A

Can I be charged with a dui when I was parked in my car with the keys in the ignition I didn't get arrested

06 Jan 2019

Q&A

Was given field sobriety test on a sloped rd with poor street lighting is that enough to surpress field sobriety test

25 Dec 2018

Q&A

Can a Cahill disposition be requested after an unsuccessful trial (guilty finding)

23 Feb 2015

See More Legal Answers

Legal Guides

Video Legal Guide

What are the penalities for 1st Offense DUI OUI in Massachusetts

01 Mar 2012

Video Legal Guide

What is a CWOF in Massachusetts

01 Mar 2012

Legal Guide

Drinking and Driving Laws in Massachusetts

03 Feb 2011

See More Legal Guides

James M. Milligan Jr.

About James

Biography

Don't take another chance. You need proven and powerful drunk driving representation. Free Case Eval

Massachusetts Board Certified Drunk Driving Defense Attorney. Proven and Powerful Results.

Practice Areas

Fees and Rates

Cost

Payment Methods

Awards

Licenses

Licensed in Massachusetts for 27 years

Location

Milligan & Higgins

Attorney James Milligan

Attorney James Milligan

Online Presence

James M. Milligan Jr.'s Reviews

Overall Rating This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.

James M. Milligan Jr.'s Lawyer Endorsements

Experience

Honors

Work Experience

Associations

Sample of Legal Cases

Education

Speaking Engagements

Publications

Languages

Activity

Legal Answers

Legal Guides

Overall Rating
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.