South Kingstown RI DUI Lawyer

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South Kingstown RI DUI Attorney

Because of the danger involved with driving under the influence of alcohol or another substance, DUI charges and convictions are taken seriously by the prosecution, courts, and legal system as a whole. The impact and penalties of a conviction are significant. It’s important that those facing these challenges have a South Kingstown, RI, DUI lawyer whom they can trust will fight for their interests.

Our team at Ellison Law LLC has extensive experience working with our DUI clients to seek the optimal outcome that we can obtain, given the circumstances. For some clients, this means a plea deal that reduces the impact of what they would face if they were to be found guilty in a trial.

For others, this means fighting the charges in court and seeking the optimal outcome in this way. Whatever the case, we are prepared to do what we can to serve our DUI clients’ interests and give them the representation that they deserve.

South Kingstown RI DUI Lawyer

DUIs in South Kingstown

DUIs are identified according to a few different criteria in Rhode Island, but the most common type of violation is identified through Blood Alcohol Level, or BAC. When someone’s BAC exceeds the applicable threshold, it is considered a “per se DUI.”

This means that the BAC level alone is enough to be considered a violation, regardless of the level of impairment that the driver was experiencing. BAC is determined through a chemical test, which could include blood or urine, but it is most frequently done through a breath test. The criteria for a DUI include:

  • A BAC of 0.08% or greater
  • A BAC of 0.04% or greater for anyone operating a commercial vehicle
  • Driving while impaired by the influence of any level of alcohol or a controlled substance
  • The presence of a controlled substance in a driver’s blood, whether it be illegal drugs, marijuana, prescription drugs, or another controlled substance

What a South Kingstown, RI, DUI Lawyer Does

When you hire a South Kingstown, RI, DUI lawyer, it’s our responsibility to represent you through the legal process. We will perform a variety of functions in those roles; however, it’s important that we do so with a strong understanding of your interests. We can take the time to understand your feelings, needs, and objectives and learn how we can properly pursue your goals.

After we investigate the circumstances surrounding your charges, we will be able to give you a better idea of what to expect from the case. For instance, there are some instances when taking the case to trial may align with the facts of the case and your objectives. However, it may also be that a plea deal is a better option in other situations.

While it will ultimately be your decision whether to accept a plea or go to court, it’s our responsibility to represent you through the process. Whether this means negotiating for a better plea deal on your behalf or making your case in court, we are prepared to fight for your objectives.

Rhode Island DUI FAQs

Q: What Is an Interlock Ignition Device?

A: An Interlock Ignition Device (IID) is installed in a car and prevents the driver from being able to operate the car if the device detects the presence of alcohol. The court may require someone convicted of a DUI to install an IID at their own expense, often as a condition of having their license reinstated. Any tampering or attempt to bypass the device is a serious offense that can lead to significant consequences.

Q: What Is Implied Consent for Chemical Tests in Rhode Island?

A: Implied consent for chemical tests in Rhode Island means that you could face penalties if you are instructed by an officer to take a chemical test and refuse to do so. This is because drivers in Rhode Island are considered to have given their consent implicitly when they make use of public roads. There may be some cases, though, where someone could still choose to refuse a test. It’s important to speak with a lawyer about the consequences of refusing a test if you’re concerned.

Q: Will My License be Suspended for a DUI?

A: Your license will likely be suspended for a DUI. Most DUI convictions carry minimum sentences that include a license suspension, and suspensions are longer and more likely to occur if this is not your first conviction. There may be some cases where you could have a lighter or no suspension, but it’s important to work with an experienced DUI lawyer if you are hoping to avoid a significant suspension.

Q: Are DUI Convictions Ever Expunged in Rhode Island?

A: DUI convictions are sometimes expunged in Rhode Island as long as certain conditions are met. It will need to be a first-time DUI conviction that was a misdemeanor and not a felony. Additionally, there will need to have been five years without any legal trouble and no charges filed against you. The court may have a few other requirements, but by working with an experienced DUI lawyer, you may have a fair chance of seeing the charges expunged.

If You’re Facing DUI Charges, You Need Our Help

DUI charges could mean a significant impact on your life. If you’re facing a second or third conviction, then jail time is likely. Even for a first charge, at least a license suspension is probable. There’s almost no aspect of your life that a DUI conviction won’t impact in some way, either directly or indirectly. Most people faced with these circumstances are trying to understand how to face minimal penalties or even avoid them altogether.

At Ellison Law LLC, we try to minimize the impact of DUI charges on our clients. In some cases, this may mean getting the case thrown out or receiving an acquittal at trial. However, for some clients, a plea deal could be a better option than risking what could happen in a court battle. In this case, we negotiate the strongest, minimally impactive deal that we can on their behalf. If you’re faced with DUI charges and need our help, contact us today.

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