DUI Arrest in RI

What are my Rights if Arrested for DUI?

A drunk driving arrest in RI can be a frightening, stressful experience. Suddenly you are concerned about your permanent legal record, your employment, and your reputation. However, it is important to remember that you have certain inalienable rights in the event of an RI DUI arrest, of which you should remain cognizant.

Rights after a DUI arrest in Rhode Island

First and foremost, you have a right to obtain legal counsel to defend yourself against your arrest. You also have a right to obtain whichever Rhode Island DUI arrest attorney you choose, and should select an attorney:

• With extensive experienced handling Rhode Island DUI arrest cases
• Whom you feel is going to take a personal interest in your case and aggressively fight against your arrest and conviction

The Law Offices of Richard S. Humphrey can provide just such a group of attorneys, ready to not only settle or dismiss charges related to your DUI arrest in RI, but to challenge it in court.

Miranda rights

Contrary to what many believe about arrests in the United States, police officers are not specifically mandated to read you your Miranda Rights. The law requires only a reasonable suspicion that you are driving under the influence in order to arrest you for DUI.

However, while the arrest may stand, you are considered exempt from self-incrimination if your Miranda Rights have not been read to you upon your arrest. If this is the case, it is possible that anything you say to the police may be dismissed as invalid evidence in court.

Implied consent law

If the police pull you over on suspicion of drunk driving in Rhode Island, you do have the right to refuse to submit to a blood alcohol test. However, if you do so and are later convicted on a drunk driving offense, your refusal to submit to the blood alcohol test upon your arrest may be held against you. It could lead to:

• Heavier fines
• Lengthier jail time
• Longer suspension of your license

Drunk driving defense in Rhode Island

The Law Offices of Richard S. Humphrey understands that legal troubles are never convenient—especially RI DUI stops and arrests. In order to make our legal services more helpful and more immediate, we provide an active 24/7 call response service at 401-685-0065. Contact the Law Offices of Richard S. Humphrey today if you need help regarding a RI drunk driving defense.