Does a prior DUI always count as a second offense in Rhode Island?

Not always. Rhode Island uses a ten-year lookback for DUI - extended from five years on July 1, 2025 - so a prior conviction generally counts as a prior offense only if the new offense falls within ten years of the prior conviction date. If your earlier DUI is older than that window, the new charge may be treated as a first offense, which carries much lighter penalties. Confirming the dates is one of the first things a lawyer checks.