Providence Felony DUI Lawyer

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Providence Felony DUI Attorney

Repeat DUI convictions can result in serious penalties, including a felony on your record. Rhode Island has a no-tolerance approach when it comes to prosecuting repeat DUI offenders. If you are facing a third DUI criminal charge, you can rely on the services of a Providence felony DUI lawyer to protect your rights in court.

Ellison Law LLC leverages years of extensive experience to provide exceptional legal service. A Providence DUI lawyer from our law firm can represent you in your DUI case and help you resolve your case on favorable terms.

best providence felony dui lawyer

Why Choose Ellison Law LLC?

If you’re facing a felony DUI third strike in Rhode Island, you need strong legal representation to navigate the serious implications of your charge. Our attorneys understand the gravity of a third DUI offense and are committed to vigorously defending your rights with personalized strategies.

Our lawyers have a strong reputation for getting results. We never settle for anything less than an optimal outcome in a case. We can explore effective legal strategies to find one that works for your case.

When Is a DUI a Felony?

In Rhode Island, the first two convictions for a DUI are classified as misdemeanor charges. A third conviction within five years will usually result in a felony charge. Penalties could include a mandatory fine and a long-term driver’s license suspension. The convicted defendant must also undergo alcohol or drug treatment. Any restoration of driving privileges would likely come with restrictions on operating a vehicle unless equipped with an ignition interlock system.

Although a third DUI conviction is typically classified as a felony offense, the level of alcohol in the defendant’s system can lead to harsher penalties, such as a mandatory jail sentence. If your DUI involved bodily injury or other aggravating circumstances, you could be charged with a felony in addition to a DUI.

How Can My Attorney Fight My Felony DUI?

DUI crimes are unique because they often lack the criminal elements found in other crimes. Although driving under the influence of any substance is reckless behavior, the people who do so often believe they are not a danger to others. They may have a substance use disorder that requires treatment rather than imprisonment.

As part of your defense, your lawyer may consider these and other defense strategies:

  • Challenging Evidence: Your attorney can scrutinize the breathalyzer results and field sobriety tests. Breathalyzer devices must be calibrated at regular intervals to be reliable. If there are issues with how evidence was collected or if the testing devices were improperly maintained, this could lead to a dismissal of charges if there is no longer credible evidence remaining.
  • Exploring Plea Bargains: In some cases, your attorney may negotiate with the prosecution for a plea deal that could reduce your charges or penalties. A favorable plea bargain could lead to a reduced criminal charge in return for a guilty plea.
  • Mitigating Circumstances: An attorney can present mitigating factors, such as personal circumstances or issues that may have contributed to the DUI. One example would be a situation where someone needed to be driven for urgent medical reasons, and you were the only driver available.
  • Treatment Programs: Your attorney may advocate for alcohol or drug treatment programs as an alternative to lengthy jail time. Avoiding a lengthy jail sentence could be contingent on completing a drug rehab program.

Providence Felony DUI FAQs

Q: Is Your License Suspended Immediately After a DUI in Providence?

A: In Rhode Island, your license may not be suspended immediately after a DUI charge, but it can lead to a suspension if convicted. Under Rhode Island General Law, various sanctions can be imposed by the sentencing court. Common sanctions accompanying an alcohol-related license suspension include the possibility of obtaining a hardship license, which may require the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) or compliance with blood or urine testing.

Q: Does a DUI Show Up on a Background Check in RI?

A: Yes, a DUI will show up on a background check if you are convicted. A DUI is a criminal offense, so you will be flagged by any criminal background check if you are convicted. One way you can avoid having a criminal record that could keep you from being employed in certain fields is by hiring an attorney to fight the DUI charges.

Q: How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost in Providence?

A: DUI lawyers put in considerable time and resources when representing clients, and they charge for their time accordingly. The cost of a DUI lawyer depends on their hourly rate or the set fee they require as a condition of representation. Under the billable hour system, an attorney may require an up-front payment known as a retainer.

Q: How Many DUIs Is a Felony in Providence?

A: Any person convicted of three or more DUIs in Providence can be charged with a felony. The minimum jail sentence for a third DUI conviction is one year, and there is a mandatory fine. Penalties increase in severity depending on the driver’s BAC. A third DUI for a driver with a BAC of .15% results in a mandatory jail sentence.

Q: What Could Be a Favorable Outcome to My DUI Case?

A: The optimal outcome for any criminal case is an innocent verdict or dropped charges. This may be achievable when prosecutors lack sufficient evidence to show that you committed a crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Reduced criminal charges would be another favorable outcome. Plea bargaining can result in reduced criminal charges or lighter penalties in exchange for an admission of guilt.

Schedule Your DUI Consultation Today

The criminal courts can be a harsh and unforgiving environment if you do not have strong legal counsel. Let our attorney work to change the narrative surrounding your criminal charges. Once our lawyer reviews your case, they can formulate a legal strategy to reduce the penalties you are facing.

A felony conviction could have serious implications for your personal and professional life. Being convicted of a DUI is not a foregone conclusion when you have strong legal representation. Contact our office today to set up a consultation so we can begin assessing your case.

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