Call or Text For A Consultation
(401) 602-9367
Most Rhode Island traffic violations are decided at the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal, a civil court for traffic matters. Even though these are civil, the consequences — fines, points, license effects, and insurance increases — can be significant.
Attorney Leah J. Boisclair represents drivers at the Traffic Tribunal and municipal court and co-chairs the Traffic Tribunal Bench/Bar Committee.
Under Chapter 31-41.1, most traffic violations are adjudicated as civil matters. An established charge is civil in nature, the state must prove the violation by clear and convincing evidence, and a penalty may not include imprisonment. Drivers can contest charges at a hearing before a judge or magistrate, and there is a right of appeal to an appeals panel and then to the District Court.
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.
At the Traffic Tribunal, the state must prove the violation by clear and convincing evidence. Because these matters are civil and non-jailable, the focus is often on the evidence behind the citation and whether the violation can be established.
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.
The Traffic Tribunal is a civil court that handles most traffic violations under Chapter 31-41.1. Matters are civil, the standard of proof is clear and convincing evidence, and penalties cannot include jail.
Yes. Chapter 31-41.1 provides a right of appeal to an appeals panel and then to the District Court, within set time limits. An attorney can explain the process.
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.