Warwick Felony DUI Lawyer

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Warwick Felony DUI Attorney

Being convicted of a DUI comes with its own set of penalties and consequences that can significantly hinder a person’s life. When that DUI becomes a felony DUI, it becomes even more serious. If you have been charged with a felony DUI, a Warwick felony DUI lawyer can help.

Best Warwick Felony DUI Lawyer

Why Choose Us?

At Ellison Law LLC, we understand how challenging the legal process can be after being charged with a felony DUI in Warwick, RI. With years of representing clients in these types of cases, we are knowledgeable about the ever-changing laws surrounding DUI charges.

We can advocate for your rights as well as inform you of the most efficient defense strategy and possible outcomes of your case. We can analyze and challenge the evidence against you, build a strong defense, and attempt to minimize your penalties. We know that this process can be overwhelming and stressful, so we can help you understand what you can expect.

What Is a Felony DUI?

A felony DUI is a more serious form of driving under the influence (DUI) that is classified as a felony rather than a misdemeanor. This classification carries significantly harsher penalties and long-term consequences. In Rhode Island, a DUI can be elevated to a felony under certain circumstances:

  • Repeat Offenses. If you have multiple prior DUI convictions, subsequent offenses may be charged as felonies.
  • DUI Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. If driving under the influence results in serious bodily injury to another person, the DUI can be charged as a felony. Serious bodily injury generally refers to injuries that create a high risk of death, cause permanent disfigurement, or result in long-term loss or impairment of a bodily function.
  • DUI Resulting in Death. This is also called vehicular manslaughter. If your impaired driving results in the death of another person, you can be charged with vehicular manslaughter or a similar felony offense. This is one of the most serious charges related to DUI, and it carries severe penalties.

Penalties for Felony DUI in Rhode Island

Felony DUI convictions come with severe penalties, which can include:

  • Jail or prison time. Felony DUI convictions often result in significant jail or prison sentences. The length of incarceration reflects the seriousness of the offense and its impact on public safety.
  • Felony DUI convictions carry higher fines than misdemeanor DUIs.
  • License suspension/revocation. Felony DUIs can lead to an extensive suspension or a permanent revocation of your driver’s license. This can significantly impact your mobility and independence.
  • Mandatory alcohol and drug treatment. Courts often require offenders to complete extensive alcohol and drug treatment programs as part of their sentence.
  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID). Offenders may be required to install an IID in their vehicles for an extended period once their license is reinstated. The IID prevents the vehicle from starting if it detects alcohol in the driver’s breath. This is often implemented and maintained at the offender’s expense.
  • Probation periods for felony DUIs are typically longer and come with strict conditions. These conditions may include regular check-ins with a probation officer, participation in alcohol treatment and education programs, and restrictions on alcohol consumption.
  • Impact on your permanent record. A felony conviction remains on your criminal record permanently, which can severely impact employment opportunities and housing.

Legal and Personal Consequences

The consequences of a felony DUI extend beyond legal penalties and include:

  • Employment: Many employers conduct background checks, and a felony conviction can disqualify you from many jobs. This is particularly true for positions that require driving.
  • Housing: Finding rental housing can be challenging with a felony on your record, as many landlords are reluctant to rent to individuals with a criminal history.
  • Education: Some educational institutions, such as colleges and universities, may deny admission or financial aid based on a felony conviction.

How a Warwick Felony DUI Lawyer Can Help

If you are facing a felony DUI charge, adequate legal representation is critical. An attorney can examine all evidence by looking for inaccuracies, procedural errors, and violations of your rights. This helps to build a strong defense in your favor.

In some cases, your attorney may negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the charges or penalties, potentially avoiding a felony conviction altogether. This negotiation can lead to lesser charges, such as reckless driving or a misdemeanor DUI.

If your case goes to trial, an attorney will advocate for your rights, present evidence and arguments in your favor, and cross-examine witnesses to ensure a fair trial.

DUI Defense FAQs

Q: Is DUI a Felony in Rhode Island?

A: In Rhode Island, a DUI can be either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the offense. A first or second DUI offense is generally classified as a misdemeanor. However, a third DUI offense within five years, or a DUI that results in serious bodily injury or death, is classified as a felony.

Q: How Long Do You Lose Your License for a DUI in Rhode Island?

A: The length of time a person loses their license for a DUI in Rhode Island depends on a number of circumstances. Generally speaking, a person loses their license for more time with each subsequent offense. For instance, if it is someone’s third offense, they will generally lose their license for a longer period of time than if it was a first offense.

Q: What Is the Drunk Driving Law in Rhode Island?

A: In Rhode Island, a person can be charged with DUI if they have been driving while under the influence of alcohol. If they have a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or above, this is above the legally allowed limit, and they can be charged. This limit is 0.04% if they are driving a commercial vehicle and 0.02% if they are under the age of 21.

Q: What Is the Penalty for a Second DUI in Rhode Island?

A: The penalties for a second DUI in Rhode Island are more severe than those for a first-time DUI. These include jail time, license suspension, fines, fees, community service, participation in drug and alcohol treatment programs, and installation of an interlock ignition device on their vehicle. An offender may also face additional penalties, such as increased insurance costs.

Contact Ellison Law LLC Today

Being charged with a felony DUI can be overwhelming, intimidating, and stressful. Luckily, our lawyers can provide crucial support as they advocate for your interests. Contact Ellison Law LLC to set up a consultation.

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