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Much of a Rhode Island DUI case can come down to testing — how a breath test was administered and whether field sobriety tests were given correctly. These are often the most challengeable parts of a case.
Attorney Leah J. Boisclair examines how testing was conducted and whether the results are reliable.
Breath and chemical testing in Rhode Island connects to the DUI statute, § 31-27-2, and the refusal statute, § 31-27-2.1. Breath-testing devices must be properly maintained and operated, and there are procedures — such as an observation period before testing — that affect reliability. Standardized field sobriety tests must also be administered correctly to be meaningful.
Statutes and penalties can change. An attorney can confirm the current law and how it applies to your specific charge.
Every DUI and traffic case turns on its own facts. Attorney Leah J. Boisclair can review your charge and explain your options in plain English.
When the state relies on a breath test, it generally must show the device was functioning properly, that procedures were followed, and that the operator was qualified. For field sobriety tests, how the tests were administered and scored affects how much weight they should carry.
No outcome can be guaranteed. The right approach depends on the specific facts; an attorney can review how the law may apply to your situation.
Traffic and DUI consequences can follow you for years. The sooner you have an attorney, the more can often be done to protect your rights.
DUI and traffic cases often turn on details — how the stop happened, how testing was administered, and whether procedures were followed. Speaking with an attorney early can help protect your license and your rights, preserve challenges, prepare you for court, and avoid missteps that can affect the outcome.
Yes. Breath-test results can be questioned based on calibration and maintenance of the device, whether procedures such as the observation period were followed, and operator certification.
Field sobriety tests raise different considerations than chemical tests. How they are administered affects their reliability; an attorney can review how the tests were conducted in your case.
Every case is different. Depending on the stop, the evidence, and the facts, there may be issues worth raising, and some matters can sometimes be reduced or resolved another way. No outcome can be guaranteed; an attorney can review your options.
Many DUI and traffic matters carry license consequences, such as suspension or an ignition interlock requirement. The specifics depend on the charge and your record; an attorney can explain what may apply.
Bring any paperwork you received — the citation or summons, any police report or arrest paperwork, your court date notice, and any documents from the DMV or Traffic Tribunal. These help an attorney understand your situation quickly.
Yes. Attorney Boisclair represents drivers at the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal and municipal court and co-chairs the Traffic Tribunal Bench/Bar Committee.
Related DUI and traffic pages for more help:
Criminal defense by Rhode Island county:
Speak with Attorney Leah J. Boisclair about your situation. Consultations are confidential, and early guidance can make a real difference.
This page is for general informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Rhode Island traffic and criminal laws can change, and the outcome of any case depends on the specific facts and circumstances. If you are facing a charge, speak with a qualified Rhode Island attorney about your situation.