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Rhode Island DUI Lawyer2026-05-08T21:38:44+00:00

Rhode Island DUI Lawyer

Bank & Munns is a Providence-based Rhode Island law firm with two of the highest-rated DUI lawyers in the state, Chad F Bank and Rory Munns. The firm has accumulated over 1,300 combined five-star Google reviews, more than any other DUI defense practice in Rhode Island. Both attorneys are members of the National College for DUI Defense (NCDD), one of the most selective DUI defense organizations in the country. Chad F Bank has been named a Three Best Rated DUI Attorney in Providence eight consecutive years, while Rory Munns holds the same designation four times. The firm handles all DUI matters including first-offense, repeat offenses, breathalyzer refusals, drug-related DUI, and felony DUI cases involving injury or death. Rory Munns and Attorney Jackie Martin are also licensed in Massachusetts and handle OUI cases in Bristol County. Bank & Munns offers free consultations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 401-573-2265, with offices at 21 Douglas Ave, Providence, RI.

A DUI charge in Rhode Island can result in license suspension, heavy fines, mandatory alcohol programs, and jail time — even for a first offense. The outcome of your case depends significantly on the quality of your legal representation. At Bank & Munns, Attorneys Chad F Bank and Rory Munns are among the highest rated DUI lawyers in Rhode Island, with over 1,300 combined Google reviews and multiple Three Best Rated DUI Attorney designations. We are available 24/7 at 401-573-2265 for a free consultation with a Rhode Island DUI Lawyer from Bank & Munns.

DUI Laws in Rhode Island

Rhode Island DUI Lawyer - Bank & Munns
In Rhode Island, you can be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) — also referred to as DWI (driving while intoxicated) or OUI (operating under the influence) — under the following circumstances:

  • Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher (standard limit for drivers 21 and over)
  • Your BAC is 0.04% or higher if you hold a commercial driver's license
  • Your BAC is 0.02% or higher if you are under 21 years of age
  • You are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both — even if your BAC is below the legal limit
  • You refuse to submit to a chemical test under Rhode Island's implied consent law, which carries its own separate penalties

Rhode Island DUI law applies to all motor vehicles including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and boats. Being charged does not mean being convicted — and an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Rhode Island DUI Penalties

Penalties for a DUI conviction in Rhode Island increase significantly with each subsequent offense. Here is what you may be facing:

First Offense DUI

  • Jail time: Up to 1 year (often suspended for first offense)
  • Fines: $100 – $500
  • License suspension: 30 – 180 days
  • Community service: 10 – 60 hours
  • Mandatory alcohol education program
  • Possible ignition interlock device

Second Offense DUI (within 5 years)

  • Mandatory minimum jail time: 6 months (up to 1 year)
  • Fines: Up to $1,000
  • License suspension: 2 years from completion of sentence
  • Mandatory substance abuse treatment
  • Ignition interlock device required

Third Offense DUI (within 5 years)

  • Mandatory jail time: 3 – 5 years
  • Fines: Up to $5,000
  • License suspension: 4 years from completion of sentence
  • Felony charge on permanent record

Aggravated DUI Penalties

Certain factors significantly increase the severity of DUI charges and penalties in Rhode Island, including:

  • BAC of 0.15% or higher
  • Having a minor in the vehicle
  • Causing serious bodily injury or death
  • Refusing a breathalyzer test
  • Prior DUI convictions

For a full breakdown of penalties by offense level, see our Rhode Island DUI penalties guide.

8 Things to Know If You Are Charged With DUI in Rhode Island

  1. A DUI charge is not a conviction. Being arrested and charged with DUI does not mean you will be convicted. There are many legal defenses available — from challenging the legality of the traffic stop to questioning the accuracy of breathalyzer results. The right attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case that you would never find on your own.
  2. What you say after your arrest can be used against you. You have the right to remain silent and you should use it. Statements made to police after a DUI arrest are routinely used as evidence in court. Politely decline to answer questions and ask for a lawyer immediately.
  3. Breathalyzer results can be challenged. Breathalyzer machines must be properly calibrated and maintained. The officer administering the test must follow specific procedures. Errors in calibration, maintenance records, or testing protocol can make breathalyzer results inadmissible.
  4. The traffic stop itself may be challengeable. Police must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If the stop was not legally justified, evidence obtained during the stop — including breathalyzer results — may be suppressed.
  5. Refusing a breathalyzer has its own consequences. Rhode Island's implied consent law means that by driving on Rhode Island roads, you have implicitly agreed to submit to chemical testing. Refusing a breathalyzer results in automatic license suspension and can be used against you in court — but it can also be strategically appropriate in some circumstances. Talk to a lawyer before deciding.
  6. A first DUI can still result in serious consequences. Even a first-offense DUI in Rhode Island can lead to jail time, fines, license suspension, mandatory programs, and a permanent criminal record. It can affect your employment, your insurance rates, and your professional licenses. Taking it seriously from day one matters.
  7. The sooner you hire a lawyer, the better. Early intervention allows your attorney to preserve evidence, review police reports for procedural errors, and begin building your defense before anything is lost. Do not wait until your court date to hire representation.
  8. Not all DUI lawyers are equal. DUI defense is a specialized area of criminal law. The attorney you choose should have deep experience specifically in Rhode Island DUI cases, knowledge of local courts and prosecutors, and a track record of results. Bank & Munns attorneys Chad F Bank and Rory Munns are both members of the National College for DUI Defense — one of the most selective DUI defense organizations in the country.

DUI Defense Strategies in Rhode Island

Every DUI case is different, and the right defense strategy depends on the specific facts of your arrest. Our attorneys evaluate every aspect of your case to identify the strongest available defenses, which may include:

  • Illegal traffic stop — challenging whether the officer had reasonable suspicion to pull you over in the first place
  • Breathalyzer inaccuracy — questioning calibration records, maintenance logs, and proper administration of the test
  • Field sobriety test errors — these tests are subjective and affected by factors including weather, road conditions, medical conditions, and footwear
  • Improper police procedure — any deviation from required arrest and booking procedures can affect the admissibility of evidence
  • Rising BAC defense — BAC continues to rise after drinking stops; your BAC at the time of driving may have been below the legal limit even if it tested above it later
  • Medical conditions — certain medical conditions can affect breathalyzer readings or produce physical symptoms that mimic intoxication
  • Lack of probable cause for arrest — the officer must have probable cause to place you under arrest; if that standard was not met, the arrest itself may be challengeable

Two of Rhode Island's Highest Rated DUI Lawyers

When you hire Bank & Munns for your DUI defense, you are retaining two of the most experienced and highly reviewed DUI attorneys in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island DUI Lawyer Chad F Bank

Chad F Bank has been defending DUI clients in Rhode Island for over 15 years. He is a Three Best Rated DUI Attorney in Providence eight consecutive years and has accumulated over 1,000 five-star Google reviews — more than any other attorney in Rhode Island. Chad is a member of the National College for DUI Defense (NCDD), a highly selective organization that recognizes attorneys with exceptional expertise in DUI defense. His NCDD profile reflects his standing among the top DUI defense attorneys in the country.

Rhode Island DUI Lawyer Rory Munns

Rory Munns has been defending DUI clients in Rhode Island and Massachusetts for over 10 years. He is a Three Best Rated DUI Attorney in Providence four times and has over 250 five-star Google reviews. Rory is also a member of the National College for DUI Defense and is licensed in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts, making Bank & Munns one of the few firms capable of handling DUI cases on both sides of the border.

A Rhode Island DUI Lawyer from Bank & Munns is in Rhode Island courts every day. Our office at 21 Douglas Ave, Providence is minutes from the courthouse — and we are available at 401-573-2265 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Related DUI Defense Matters

DUI charges come in many forms. Our attorneys handle the full range of DUI-related matters in Rhode Island, including:

  • First-time DUI — understanding your options and protecting your record on a first offense
  • Repeat DUI offenses — defending against the escalating penalties that come with second and third offenses
  • Breathalyzer refusal — navigating the consequences of refusing a chemical test under Rhode Island's implied consent law
  • Marijuana and drug DUI — defending against DUI charges based on alleged drug impairment rather than alcohol
  • DUI involving injury or death — felony DUI charges carrying the most serious consequences
  • Massachusetts DUI / OUI — Rory Munns and Attorney Jackie Martin are licensed in Massachusetts and handle OUI cases in Bristol County and surrounding areas

If you have been charged with a DUI in Rhode Island, do not wait. Contact a Rhode Island DUI Lawyer form Bank & Munns today at 401-573-2265.

Rhode Island DUI FAQ's

How often do DUI cases get dismissed?2026-04-29T13:37:52+00:00

Any attorney who gives you a percentage before reviewing your case is either guessing or selling. The truth is that DUI case outcomes depend entirely on the specific facts, how the traffic stop happened, what field sobriety tests were administered, whether breath or blood testing followed the required procedures, whether probable cause existed, and a dozen other case-specific details.

Some DUI cases are dismissed outright. Many resolve through reduced charges, diversion programs, or negotiated pleas that keep a conviction off the record. Others go to trial. The factors that separate a strong defense from a weak one are usually invisible to the person arrested, they're things an experienced DUI attorney looks for in the police report, the evidence, and the procedural record that most people don't know to examine.

The honest answer to "how often" is: more often than most people expect, when a DUI attorney who actually knows DUI law reviews your case. Call 401-573-2265 to discuss your specific situation. Your case has its own facts, you deserve an answer based on them, not an average.

What is the 80/20 rule for lawyers?2026-04-29T13:37:49+00:00

The 80/20 rule, also called the Pareto Principle, comes from Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto, who noticed about a century ago that 20% of the people in Italy held 80% of the wealth. In the legal world, lawyers apply the idea two ways.

Some attorneys apply it to their practice: 20% of their cases generate 80% of their revenue, so they focus on the high-value cases where the most is at stake. More importantly for a client facing a DUI charge, the 80/20 rule also applies to case strategy. Roughly 80% of successful DUI outcomes come from 20% of the legal strategies, challenging the validity of the traffic stop, questioning breathalyzer calibration and maintenance records, scrutinizing the officer's field sobriety test administration, examining probable cause, and reviewing the chain of custody on any blood or breath evidence.

A DUI lawyer who understands the 80/20 rule focuses on the critical few elements that actually move outcomes, rather than scattering effort across every detail of the case. When you're interviewing a DUI attorney, ask what strategies they prioritize first when reviewing a case, their answer tells you whether they know which 20% to work. Call 401-573-2265 to discuss your case.

Does astigmatism affect the DUI test?2026-05-10T05:07:07+00:00

Astigmatism does not affect the field sobriety test police use to look at your eyes during a DUI stop. The test is called the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, or HGN. People often confuse the two terms because both involve the eyes, but they measure completely different things. Astigmatism is a vision problem corrected by glasses or contact lenses. HGN measures involuntary jerking of the eye when it follows a moving object. Alcohol and certain drugs increase that jerking, which is what the officer is looking for.

Several legitimate medical conditions can cause natural nystagmus that has nothing to do with alcohol, including genuine nystagmus disorders, certain prescription medications, head injuries, neurological conditions, and even fatigue. If you were given an HGN test during a DUI stop and the officer claims it showed signs of impairment, an experienced DUI lawyer can challenge the test results when a legitimate medical explanation exists. Call 401-573-2265 to discuss your case.

Should I refuse a breathalyzer in Rhode Island?2026-04-29T13:37:43+00:00

This is one of the most complex questions in DUI defense and the answer depends on your specific circumstances. Rhode Island's implied consent law means that refusing a breathalyzer carries its own automatic penalties, including immediate license suspension, and the refusal itself can be used as evidence against you in court. However, there are situations where refusal may be strategically appropriate. Do not make this decision without understanding the consequences. If you have already refused, contact a lawyer immediately.

Will I lose my license after a DUI in Rhode Island?2026-04-19T00:33:33+00:00

License suspension is a standard consequence of a DUI conviction in Rhode Island. For a first offense, suspension typically ranges from 30 to 180 days. A second offense within five years carries a two-year suspension, and a third offense can result in a four-year suspension. In some cases, you may be eligible for a conditional license or an ignition interlock device that allows limited driving privileges. An attorney can advise you on your specific options.

What happens after a DUI arrest in Rhode Island?2026-04-29T13:37:38+00:00

After a DUI arrest in Rhode Island, you will be taken to the police station for booking, which includes fingerprinting, photographing, and processing. You may be held until bail is set or released on personal recognizance. Your vehicle may be towed and impounded. You will receive a court date for your arraignment, at which you will enter a plea. From that point, the case proceeds through pre-trial hearings, potential plea negotiations, and if necessary, trial. Having an attorney present at your arraignment and throughout the process is critical.

How much does a DUI cost in Rhode Island?2026-04-19T00:33:50+00:00

The total cost of a DUI in Rhode Island goes well beyond the court-imposed fine. When you factor in fines, court costs, attorney fees, DMV reinstatement fees, increased insurance premiums, alcohol education program costs, and potential ignition interlock installation, the total cost of a first-offense DUI can easily exceed $5,000 to $10,000 or more. This does not account for lost wages from missed work or the impact on employment. Investing in quality legal representation can reduce or eliminate many of these costs.

How much does Bank & Munns charge for a DUI consultation?2026-04-19T00:22:03+00:00

All DUI consultations at Bank & Munns are completely free. We understand that facing a DUI charge is stressful and financially uncertain, and we want to give you the opportunity to speak with an experienced attorney and understand your options without any obligation. Call 401-573-2265 to schedule your free consultation today. We are available 24/7.

What does a Rhode Island DUI Lawyer do for you?2026-04-08T21:51:30+00:00

A Rhode Island DUI Lawyer from Bank & Munns is in court every day fighting for their clients. Upon being retained our attorneys get the Police Report from your arrest and go over it with you to see if there were any procedural errors and to prepare your DUI defense strategy. Our team will make you a part of the process and keep you informed every step of the way. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for your individual case.

Who is the best DUI Lawyer in Rhode Island?2026-04-19T00:29:30+00:00

Attorneys Chad F Bank and Rory Munns at Bank & Munns are among the highest rated and most reviewed DUI lawyers in Rhode Island. With over 1,300 combined five-star Google reviews, multiple Three Best Rated DUI Attorney designations in Providence, and membership in the National College for DUI Defense, they have built a record that distinguishes them from the field. Their office is located directly across from the Providence courthouse, and they are available 24/7 for consultations.

What should I do if I've been arrested in Rhode Island?2026-04-29T13:37:42+00:00

If you've been arrested in Rhode Island, follow these steps in order to protect yourself:

  1. Invoke your right to remain silent. Say clearly: "I want a lawyer. I'm not answering any questions." Then stop talking, even small talk. Anything you say, including jokes, explanations, and denials, can be used against you at trial. Police can legally lie about evidence they have to get you talking. Don't fall for it.
  2. Do not consent to searches. Do not give permission to search your car, phone, home, or person. If they have a warrant or legal authority, they'll search anyway. Never make the state's case easier by consenting.
  3. Do not resist or argue. Comply with handcuffing and transport. Resisting arrest adds charges and makes bail harder to win.
  4. Do not post about the arrest on social media. Posts, DMs, and comments can be discovered and used in prosecution.
  5. Do not contact alleged victims or witnesses. This can trigger witness tampering or obstruction charges and usually triggers a no-contact order.
  6. Request a phone call, you have the right to one. Use it to reach a family member who can reach us, or call Bank & Munns directly at (401) 573-2265 (24/7).
  7. Memorize the details. Note officer names, badge numbers, times, and what was said. Do this mentally, don't write it down where police can take it.

Time matters in criminal defense. The earlier we're involved, the more leverage we have at arraignment, during investigation, and in negotiation.

Should I hire a DUI lawyer?2026-04-19T00:30:06+00:00

Yes. Legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your case. An experienced RI DUI Lawyer like Chad F Bank, Rory Munns, and Jackie Martin gives you the best chance for a favorable outcome. Call us today at 401-573-2265

Can a DUI be dismissed in Rhode Island?2026-04-19T00:23:50+00:00

Yes. DUI charges can be dismissed or reduced in Rhode Island depending on the facts of your case. Common grounds for dismissal or reduction include an illegal traffic stop, improperly administered or inaccurate breathalyzer results, errors in police procedure during the arrest, or lack of probable cause. An experienced DUI attorney will review every aspect of your case to identify the strongest available defenses. Results vary by case, but having skilled representation significantly improves your odds.

Does Bank & Munns handle DUI cases in Massachusetts?2026-04-21T23:59:46+00:00

Yes. Attorney Rory Munns and Attorney Jackie Martin are both licensed in Massachusetts and handle OUI (operating under the influence) cases in Bristol County and surrounding areas. Massachusetts uses the term OUI rather than DUI, and the laws differ from Rhode Island in important ways. If you are facing an OUI charge in Massachusetts, contact our office at 401-573-2265 for a free consultation.

Contact a Rhode Island DUI Lawyer at Bank & Munns

If you have been charged with DUI in Rhode Island, the attorneys at Bank & Munns are ready to fight for you. With decades of combined experience, over 1,300 five-star reviews, and a track record of results in Rhode Island courts, we give you the strongest possible defense.

We offer a free consultation and are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 401-573-2265 or contact us online to speak to a Rhode Island DUI Lawyer today.

Bank & Munns — Rhode Island DUI Defense

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21 Douglas Ave
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: 401-573-2265
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