RI DUI Defense

DUI charges in Rhode Island

Driving under the influence laws in Rhode Island establish that both minor and adult drivers can be charged with drunk driving.

• DUI charges in Rhode Island are reserved for any adult driver found operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or greater.
• For minor drivers (under 21), though, driving while intoxicated (DWI) charges are reserved for those found operating a vehicle with a BAC between .02 and .08.

Rhode Island DUI penalties

As in many other states, those convicted under DUI law in RI are punished based on the amount of alcohol in their system and their number of previous DUI arrests and charges. In general, penalties for violating RI DUI laws grow stricter as your BAC increases and when you have a criminal history of drunk driving charges.

First time adult DUI offenders

Under RI DUI law, adults over age 21 can expect to face the following penalties for their first RI DUI arrest involving a BAC above .08:

Second DUI offense in Rhode Island

Penalties grow stricter for adults facing their second DUI in RI offense within five years involving a BAC of .08 or greater:

DUI arrest in Rhode Island—felony charges

Third-time repeat DUI offenders face felony charges for their third DUI arrest in Rhode Island. This comes with heightened consequences such as:

• One to 10 years in prison
• A three year license suspension
• Possible vehicle seizure by the state

It is also possible to face felony charges for a DUI arrest when a RI drunk driving accident occurs and someone is seriously injured or killed. In these circumstances, the drunk driver can face:

• Up to 15 years in prison
• A $20,000 fine
• Conviction on vehicular manslaughter charges

Get help for your DUI defense from our experienced drunk driving attorneys in RI. We can help you confront your charges with a solid RI DUI defense strategy whether it is your first or third offense.

Call 401-685-0054 for Rhode Island DUI arrests.