Rhode Island DUI Lawyer
Drunk driving is an offense that is taken very seriously in Rhode Island. In fact, this state employs some of the strictest driving under the influence (DUI or DWI) laws in the country. Because of this, Rhode Island residents should always think twice about getting behind the wheel of their cars after having a few drinks.
However, even if you do take the time to determine that you are sober enough to drive, you may still be pulled over by a law enforcement officer. Rhode Island DUI defense lawyer James Powderly understands that these unfortunate situations do sometimes arise and he has dedicated his practice to defending the unlucky victims of such circumstances.
To find out more about how RI DUI defense attorney James Powderly can help you with your DUI charge, contact him today at 401-662-9006. His practice spans all areas of Rhode Island, and he is ready to take your call no matter what time of day it may be.
What happens when I am pulled over?
If a law enforcement officer sees that you are driving abnormally or erratically, then he or she may pull you over on the basis of suspected drunk driving. Typically, officers stop drivers that are weaving, swerving, unable to stay in their lanes, driving erratically, and exhibiting other dangerous behaviors.
After you have been pulled over by a police officer, he or she will look for more signs indicating that you are intoxicated, such as a flushed appearance, slurring conversation, and bloodshot eyes. If there exists a reason to believe that you are drunk, then the officer may ask you to perform several field sobriety tests. Should you fail these, you will be taken into police custody and asked to perform a chemical blood or breath test.
You will receive a DUI charge if your blood alcohol content (BAC) level is tested and registers above 0.08%, which is the legal limit in the United States. Minors, commercial drivers, and pilots all have lower legal limits.
If you are convicted of DUI, then you will face serious penalties. First time DUI offenders face fines, license suspension, and incarceration. Each subsequent offense carries with it an increase in punishment. DUI offenders who have been convicted of their third offense in five years will be charged with a felony.
Charges such as these are significant, but they are not impossible to overcome. Anyone charged with a DUI will likely need the assistance of an experienced Rhode Island DUI defense attorney to effectively fight the charges brought against them.
Contact Us
If you have been charged with DUI, then a qualified and experienced defense attorney can help you defend your freedoms in a court of law. Contact Rhode Island DUI defense lawyer James Powderly at 401-662-9006 to speak with him about forming your defense today.
