Newport RI DUI lawyer

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Newport RI DUI Attorney

A DUI charge is a serious offense, and the consequences could impact many parts of your life. The penalties, particularly a license suspension, can even make it challenging for some people to maintain employment if they can’t easily find alternative transportation. The impact of a DUI is why it’s imperative that those charged work with a Newport, RI, DUI lawyer.

Our team at Ellison Law LLC has significant experience working with DUI criminal charges. We help our clients not only with the legal side of the process but also with handling the stress of the situation. We can help you understand what options may be available in your case.

Newport RI DUI lawyer

What a Newport, RI, DUI Lawyer Does

Your DUI lawyer acts as your representative and advocate throughout the legal process but can also act as your guide and advisor as you navigate the situation and consider any options that are available to you. To meet these needs, your lawyer will perform several different functions.

The foundation of your lawyer’s help will be a strong understanding of your case. This usually comes from a thorough investigation that includes examining the police report, hearing your experience of the situation, and independently looking for evidence. Once your lawyer has a good understanding of your circumstances and objectives, they can begin to identify possible options for you.

Understanding Plea Deals for DUIs

In some situations, a plea deal may be an option that fits your needs and the objectives of the prosecution. If this seems like a possibility, your lawyer can try to negotiate a deal that has as little impact on your life as possible. Having an experienced lawyer for this is critical because we understand what to expect in these negotiations and how to apply pressure for a better deal on your behalf.

It could be, though, that a plea deal is not an option for your particular case. If that’s the case, your lawyer should be prepared to defend you. Even while negotiating a possible plea deal, there may be pre-trial hearings and the opportunity to get certain evidence dismissed or the case thrown out. Although rare, there is even the possibility that the prosecution could drop the case if crucial evidence is disallowed.

Trial and Sentencing

If the case does go to trial, though, your lawyer will present the strongest defense that they can create on your behalf. The burden of proof is on the prosecution, so if your lawyer is able to create a reasonable doubt, then you may be able to beat the charges.

However, even if that is not the case, your lawyer will continue to argue on your behalf. At sentencing, they can make the case for a lighter sentence. Penalties for a DUI in Newport, RI could include a license suspension, jail time, fines, or community service. These penalties can increase in severity when aggravating factors, such as prior DUIs, a child in the car, or an already suspended license, are present.

Newport DUI FAQs

Q: Can You Refuse a Breathalyzer Test?

A: You can refuse to take a breathalyzer test, but not without consequences. Rhode Island has implied consent rules in place regarding chemical testing. This means that drivers are considered to have consented to these tests based on their use of the roads. Refusal to take a test can thus be penalized under Rhode Island laws, including a potential license suspension. However, there still may be situations in which you consider refusing. If possible, try to speak with a lawyer about your options.

Q: Can a DUI Be Expunged or Sealed?

A: It is possible to have a DUI sealed or expunged in Rhode Island so long as certain conditions are met. DUIs can be sealed in circumstances where charges were dismissed, resulted in acquittal, or there was another form of exoneration.

First-time misdemeanor DUI convictions could potentially be expunged after five years if there has been no other legal trouble since then. In both cases, there may be additional requirements set by the court that must also be satisfied.

Q: How Can You Defend Against DUI Charges?

A: You can defend against DUI charges in a number of different ways, but the options will be limited based on what occurred prior to and during your DUI arrest and charges. A DUI defense could focus on the actions of the officer. There is a technical, detailed process that must be followed during a DUI arrest. A common defense is showing that the officer failed to follow these procedures. In other cases, it could be possible to challenge the validity of the chemical testing involved.

Q: What Should I Look for in a Newport DUI Lawyer?

A: There are a few characteristics you should look for in a Newport, RI, DUI lawyer. You’ll want someone who has both a strong understanding of DUI law and significant experience in working on DUI cases.

Someone who knows how to negotiate a strong plea deal or make your case in court is important to ensure that you have every option available to you. It’s also critical that you trust your lawyer. They are taking on a significant responsibility, and you should be sure you are comfortable with them.

Get the DUI Defense Team You Need

DUI charges are intimidating and carry significant consequences. We understand the impact that facing these charges can have on you, and we take care to ensure that you are heard. There may be many options available to you regarding how to address the charges, but you need a lawyer who understands how to advise you based on your objectives. At Ellison Law LLC, we provide you with a personalized legal strategy to seek the ideal outcome for your unique case.

We know how to help those faced with DUI charges through the difficult circumstances that they find themselves in. We’re prepared to help them address the situation in a number of different ways, including negotiating a strong plea deal or making a firm case before the court. If you’ve been charged with a DUI and need legal representation that you can feel confident in, contact our offices today.

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