Penalties for DUI in Rhode Island

If you are pulled over for suspected drunk driving, the officer will likely question and examine you. You may be asked to undergo field sobriety tests or submit to a breathalyzer. Should the officer determine that your blood alcohol content (BAC) level is above the legal limit of 0.08%, you will be arrested, taken into police custody, and charged with DUI.

First Time DUI Offenders

The penalties for DUI in Rhode Island vary, depending on your age, BAC level, and number of prior DUI offenses. For first time, adult offenders, the penalties are as follows:

License suspended for 1-18 months
$100-$500 fine
One year in jail or 10-60 hours of community service
Possible enrollment in an alcohol treatment program

Depending on the offender’s BAC level, these penalties may vary in severity. Obviously, those with BAC levels closer to or even above 0.15% will see the harshest punishments.

Multiple DUI Offenses

Second-time offenders will face harsher punishments, but they will still be charged with a misdemeanor. The punishment for these individuals includes the following:

License suspension for up to 2 years
Fine of $400-$1000
10 days to 12 months in jail
Enrollment in an alcohol treatment program
Possible installation of an ignition interlock system

Third-time offenders within a five year time period will face a felony charge, high fines, up to 5 years in jail, and up to 3 years with a suspended driver’s license.

Contact Us

If you have been pulled over and charged with DUI, then you will need a competent and capable attorney to effectively represent you in court. Rhode Island DUI defense lawyer James Powderly has the experience necessary to help you with your case. Contact him today by calling 401-662-9006.