What Factors Determine a DUI Penalty?

If you are convicted of a DUI, you may be subjected to a variety of criminal penalties, including fines, community service, probation, jail time, license suspension, or alcohol rehabilitation programs. The severity of a DUI conviction penalty depends on different factors.

It’s easy to find lists of the different type of penalties. But if you are convicted of a DUI, the judge will use particular criteria to assign your penalty.

• Does the driver have a history of drunk driving violations?
• Did the DUI occur at the same time as another driving offense, such as reckless or aggressive driving?
• Did the DUI situation also involve a car accident?
• Was another person injured during the car accident?
• Was property damaged during the car accident?
• Was the driver over the legal drinking age when the DUI violation occurred?
• Was the driver operating a commercial vehicle while drunk?
• Was a child in the vehicle while the driver was drunk?

These factors are used to determine the severity of your conviction and thus the penalties that are assigned to you.

Contact Us

Rhode Island has strict DUI penalties, with even first-time offenders subjected to strict punishments. If you have been convicted of a DUI, you need a knowledgeable DUI defense lawyer to review and defend your case in court. Experienced Rhode Island drunk driving lawyer James Powderly has dedicated his practice to defending the driving rights of Rhode Island motorists. If you have any questions about DUI convictions or want to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case, contact his office today at 401-662-9006.