By James Witherspoon -

When you are given a citation for a first offense DUI in many states, the penalties for the offense can range greatly based on a number of factors that may influence the judge in charge of your case. Multiple DUI citations are much stricter and more severe.

The main factor that influences the penalties for a DUI is the accused’s Blood Alcohol Content or BAC. The potential penalties for a first offense DUI are increasingly extreme depending on which tier your BAC fell into.

First offense DUI penalties typically fall into three categories. These categories and their accompanying penalties are:

BAC .08-.10

• A fine ranging from $100-$300
• 10-60 hours of community service
• And/or imprisonment for up to one year
• License suspension for 30-180 days
• Required attendance at a course on driving while intoxicated

BAC .10-.15

• A fine ranging from $100-$400
• 10-60 hours of community service
• And/or imprisonment for up to one yea4
• License suspension for 3-12 months
• Required attendance at a course on driving while intoxicated

BAC .15 +

• $500 fine
• 20-60 hours of community service
• And/or imprisonment for up to one year
• License suspension for 3-18 months
• Required attendance at a course on driving while intoxicated

There is a great deal of leeway with the penalties of this type of DUI. It is important to get an idea of what may impact the judge in charge of your case. Every judge is different, but it is possible to improve your chances of avoiding a harsh sentencing by getting the help of a professional.

James Witherspoon
To find out more about first offense DUIs and the things that you can do to improve your case, visit the website of the Rhode Island DUI defense attorneys at the Powderly Law Firm today.

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