Penalties for DUI

If you have been charged with DUI, then it is important for you to understand the penalties you may face if convicted. This crime is taken very seriously in the state of Rhode Island, and because of this, you may be required to pay high fines, spend time in jail, have your license suspended for a year or more, or install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.

With the help of an experienced and qualified defense lawyer, you may be able to reduce or even eliminate the harmful DUI penalties you are facing. Contact Rhode Island DUI defense lawyer James Powderly today at 401-662-9006 to speak with him about your legal rights and options.

Of-Age Penalties

In Rhode Island, the penalties for DUI vary depending on age, BAC level, and number of prior offenses. Of-age offenders face possible criminal conviction and harsher punishment than DUI offenders under 21. Adult penalties are as follows:

First time offender, BAC between .08 and .1

• Fine of $100-$300
• 6 month driver’s license suspension
• One year of incarceration or 60 hours of community service
• Enrollment in driving or alcohol treatment programs
• Extra fees

Second time offender within 5 years, BAC between .08 and .1

• $400 fine
• 2 years driver’s license suspension
• 10 days to 1 year in jail
• Enrollment in alcohol or drug treatment programs
• Ignition interlock device installed in vehicle for up to 2 years

Third time offender within 5 years, BAC level between .08 and .1

• Felony charge
• $400 fine
• 2-3 years driver’s license suspension
• 1-3 years in jail
• Enrollment in driving or alcohol treatment programs
• Ignition interlock device installed in vehicle for up to 2 years

Offenders with BAC levels above 0.1 will face enhanced punishments. Offenders who commit DUI resulting in death will face up to 15 years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000.

Underage Penalties

The legal BAC limit for people under the age of 21 is 0.02% in the state of Rhode Island. The penalties for underage, intoxicated drivers are the following:

First time offender, under 18 years old

• 10-60 hours of community service
• Driver’s license suspension for 6-18 months
• Enrollment in DWI or alcohol treatment program
• Possible fine of up to $500

Second time offender, under 18 years old

• License suspension until age 21
• Possible fine of up to $500
• Possible year-long sentence in a juvenile correctional facility

First time offender, 18-21 years old

• Up to 30 hours of community service
• Driver’s license suspension for 3 months
• Fine of up to $250
• Enrollment in DWI and alcohol treatment programs

Second time offender, 18-21 years old

• Up to 60 hours of community service
• License suspension for 3-6 months
• Fined $550
• Enrollment in DWI and alcohol treatment programs

Contact Us

Rhode Island DUI defense attorney James Powderly can inform you of your rights and options following a DUI charge. To get the strong legal support you need, contact him today at 401-662-9006.