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rhode island dwi attorneyKnow When You Need a Rhode Island DWI Attorney

Whether you have been out drinking alcohol or hanging out with your friends doing other things if you end up getting caught driving under the influence in Rhode Island you need a Rhode Island DWI Attorney. In Rhode Island driving under the influence can carry hefty penalties and without representation, things can quickly go from bad to worse. At the Law Office of Rhode Island DWI Attorney Chad F. Bank, we have been defending DUI and DWI cases for over a decade and have the experience you need to get you through this difficult time in your life.

If you are found guilty of driving under the influence whether it is from drinking alcohol or using drugs you can face many penalties. Being convicted of a DUI can lead to increased insurance rates, mandatory classes, jail time, and huge fines. Being convicted of a DUI will also mean that you will have a difficult time getting to work or school since you will likely have your license suspended. In some cases, you may not be able to apply for certain jobs or other employment opportunities.

What Do When You Are Arrested

In many cases, those who face DUI charges do not choose the right course of action after their arrest. Being arrested for a crime can make you feel as if you have nowhere to turn, or that they have no option but to accept the charges of which they are accused. No matter the crime that you are charged with it is imperative that you speak with an attorney. The fact is that with the right Rhode Island DWI Attorney on your side you have an excellent chance at beating your charges.

Defeating Your DUI Charges

The biggest key when you have been arrested for a DUI is to make sure that you have your case handled correctly. While it is important to know that any attorney could represent you in your case, it is also important to keep in mind that not every attorney is going to be your best choice. At the law office of Chad F. Bank, we know that you may be confused about the repercussions of being arrested for a DUI and we want you to know that we are here for you. Our office uses the latest technology to make sure that our clients are made aware of changes in their cases every step of the way. Our office will put our many years of experience with hundreds of successful DUI cases to work for you. If you or a loved one has been arrested contact Chad F. Bank today for a free consultation with a Rhode Island DWI Attorney you can count on.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Rhode Island DWI be reduced?

Yes. First-offense DWI cases are often reduced to reckless driving when the evidence has defense angles (bad stop, breath test calibration issues, field test problems). The reduction avoids the longer license suspension and ignition interlock requirements that come with a DUI conviction.

Is DWI the same as DUI in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island the statutory term is DUI (driving under the influence) under RIGL section 31-27-2. "DWI" (driving while intoxicated) is used colloquially but the official Rhode Island charge is DUI. They refer to the same offense. Massachusetts uses "OUI" (operating under the influence) for the equivalent charge.

What are the Rhode Island DWI penalties?

First offense (BAC 0.08-0.10): probation typical, license loss 30-180 days, fines $100-$300, DWI program. BAC 0.15+: mandatory ignition interlock, license loss 6-18 months, fines $500-$1,000. Second offense: mandatory 10-day jail, 1-2 year license loss. Third offense: felony, 1-year mandatory prison.

What is the Rhode Island DWI legal limit?

The per se threshold is 0.08 BAC for adult drivers, 0.04 for commercial drivers, and 0.02 for drivers under 21. The threshold is set by RIGL section 31-27-2. Driving over the threshold is a per se DUI - the state does not have to prove actual impairment beyond the BAC reading.

Where are Rhode Island DWI cases heard?

Rhode Island DWI cases are heard at the District Court division covering the arrest location: 6th Division in Providence (Providence County), 2nd Division in Newport (Newport County), 3rd Division in Warwick (Kent County), or 4th Division in Wakefield (Washington County). Felony cases bind over to Superior Court.