Home  >  FAQS  >  Consequences Of DUI

What are the consequences of a DUI conviction?

There are a number of variables involved in a case that will determine what the “punishment” will be if you are convicted of this offense. A short list of these will include whether or not this is your first DUI, other criminal record (if any), if there was an accident in this case, the degree of your intoxication and if you were respectful or combative with the police. It is important to know that being respectful to the police does not mean you have to waive any of your rights. A polite, “I would like to speak with my attorney” will serve you best. The following is a typical disposition given on a conviction for a first offense DUI where there is no accident or prior criminal history of like offenses. A jail sentence is generally not given. It is also important to realize that these are only the penalties given by the court. Not listed are the consequences of having a criminal record including; how this will affect your present and/or future jobs, your insurance premiums, inevitable jail sentence if ever convicted of a subsequent offense and the general stigma attached to such a conviction.

First Time Offender with Breath Test Refusal or with BAC between .08-.10%

  • Fined $100-$300
  • Suspended license for one to six months, a $50 reinstatement fee
  • 10-60 hours of community service
  • Face a Highway Safety Assessment ($500 fee) conducted by the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) and enrollment in a driving school and/or an alcohol treatment program

First Time Offender with a BAC between .10-.15%

  • Fined $100-$400
  • 10-60 hours of community service
  • Suspended license 3-12 months
  • Face a Highway Safety Assessment ($500 fee) conducted by the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) and enrollment in a driving school and/or an alcohol treatment program

First Time Offender with a BAC of .15% or Higher

  • Fined $500
  • 20-60 hours of community service
  • Suspended license 3-18 months
  • Mandatory participation in a special course on DWI and/or drug treatment
  • Face a Highway Safety Assessment ($500 fee) conducted by the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) and enrollment in a driving school and/or an alcohol treatment program

Back to FAQs