Refusal to Submit to a Chemical Test
When a person is pulled over because of suspected drunk driving, an officer will be intentionally observing every action of the driver to determine whether or not they believe the driver is under the influence of alcohol or some other controlled substance. This includes a driver’s response to a request to complete a chemical test to determine blood-alcohol content.
If an officer has reason to believe that a driver is under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance and that person refuses to participate in a chemical test either of their breath, blood or urine, there will be immediate legal ramifications.
If you have been convicted of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and refused to participate in a chemical test, you may be in need of an experienced lawyer who can fight for you. Please contact Rhode Island DUI defense lawyer Matthew Marin by calling 401-287-4384 today for more information on your legal options upon refusing a chemical test.
Legal Implications
According to the Rhode Island state code, a person who refuses an officer’s request to participate in a chemical test if that person is reasonably suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or some controlled substance will immediately have his or her right to operate a vehicle suspended. Persons charged with these allegations must surrender their licenses within 5 days of the notice of suspension.
Upon the suspension of a person’s privilege to drive in the state of Rhode Island, a hearing must be scheduled within 15 days of the date of the suspension. This hearing should be scheduled as early as is practical once the written notification has been issued. At the hearing, a judge will determine whether the alleged violation will be upheld based on the testimony of the officer who issued the charges.
It is crucial that the accused individual is made aware of their rights as they face the consequences of refusing a chemical test for intoxication.
Contact Us
If you feel that you were improperly convicted of driving under the influence or were treated improperly during an interaction with a police officer, you need experienced legal support. Please contact Rhode Island DUI defense lawyer Matthew Marin by calling 401-287-4384 today for more information on your legal options upon refusing a chemical test.
