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A DUI charge in Rhode Island can put your license, your record, and sometimes your freedom at risk. Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-27-2, it is unlawful to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or with a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher for most drivers.
These cases often turn on how the stop and testing were handled. Attorney Leah J. Boisclair — who co-chairs the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal Bench/Bar Committee — can review the details of your case.
Under § 31-27-2, a first offense is generally a misdemeanor, with penalties that increase based on blood-alcohol concentration (for example at 0.10%, 0.15% and above) and on prior offenses. Consequences can include fines, license suspension, possible jail, an ignition interlock requirement, and mandatory DUI school or treatment. Lower limits apply to commercial drivers and drivers under 21.
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.
The state generally must prove that you operated or were in control of a vehicle and were under the influence — often through a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher, or other evidence of impairment. The lawfulness of the stop and the way testing was conducted are frequently central.
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.
A first-offense DUI under section 31-27-2 is generally a misdemeanor, with penalties that increase at higher BAC levels. Prior offenses and the facts can change what you face.
For most drivers the threshold is a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher, with lower limits for commercial drivers and drivers under 21. Impairment can also be shown by other evidence.
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.