Ask a Question

Get free answers to your Criminal Law legal questions from lawyers in your area.

Lawyers, increase your visibility by answering questions and getting points. Answer Questions
Rhode Island Criminal Law Questions & Answers
2 Answers | Asked in Contracts, Criminal Law, Family Law and Social Security for Rhode Island on
Q: Is it illegal if a parent 'legally' robbed their child of their inheritance left in a will by her father before death?

I've stumbled upon a case where my Grandmother was left her father's "Entire Estate." However, due to the court's findings, they denied her her right to any inheritance due to her being an "illegitimate child" born out of wedlock. Is it possible that she was... View More

Albin Moser
PREMIUM
Albin Moser pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Dec 4, 2024

Those of us born out of wedlock can inherit pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-1-8, a Rhode Island law that was first enacted in 1905. That 1905 law was probably enacted prior to the time of your great-grandfather's death, and would have prevented a finding that your grandmother could not... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Criminal Law and Real Estate Law for Rhode Island on
Q: As to the recording voice and video does The State of Rhode Island require that all party's being recorded be informed?

One month after signing a lease I recorded a video with sound of my landlady in a rooming house in Warwick Rhode Island. She told me that she was writing new rules as an addendum to the lease and then I was excluded from parts of the house that were in the lease.

during that confrontation... View More

Nicholas Arthur Matlach
PREMIUM
Nicholas Arthur Matlach pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 29, 2024

It sounds like you're in a very challenging situation, and I understand wanting to explore all options. Whether you can use the recording in a court case depends on a few factors:

- Rhode Island's Consent Laws: Rhode Island is a "one-party consent" state. This means you...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Rhode Island on
Q: How do i contact my public defender after a decade

Hypothetically if you were to have commited a misdemeanor and left the state instead of going to court about 9 years ago, how would you go about contacting your lawyer to finally address it

Thomas Briody
Thomas Briody
answered on Feb 4, 2024

I doubt your public defender will still be assigned to this case. You could contact the public defender’s office and explain the situation. Or you could contact a private lawyer. There may be a warrant out for you. But it should not be difficult, if it’s a misdemeanor and you have had no... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Rhode Island on
Q: Given these charges in providence ri superior court, what is the best possible deal the defendant might receive ?

Assault With Intent to Commit Specified Felonies

Felony Assault and/or Battery

Using a Firearm When Committing a Crime of Violence - 1st Offense

Discharge Firearm When Committing a Crime of Violence - Injury to Other

Carry Pistol or Revolver Without License or Permit... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jan 29, 2024

In a case involving multiple serious charges like these in Providence, RI, the best possible deal greatly depends on various factors, including the specifics of the case, the defendant's criminal history, and the quality of the defense.

For such serious offenses, particularly those...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Rights, Federal Crimes and Identity Theft for Rhode Island on
Q: Ex-wife took out a $300,000 life policy in my name, no consent, and made herself the beneficiary. Recourse? I have proof

- I have the fraudulent application filled out in her writing.

-She signed my name on the application.

-She said I was her husband on the application.

-She listed her address on the application for any correspondence.

-She listed her contact information for any... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 24, 2023

In your situation, there are several legal actions you can consider. Firstly, identity theft and fraud are serious crimes, and you should report this incident to law enforcement. Given your ex-wife's history of impersonating you, a police report can be instrumental in documenting the pattern... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law, Personal Injury, Family Law and Domestic Violence for Rhode Island on
Q: I was violently assaulted by my brother in February of 2023. I didn’t press charges; is it too late for me to do so now?

When my brother attacked me, he punched me in the face and broke my face open. I had gone to the hospital and had to get stitches. The cops came to the house after my brother punched me but I didn’t press charges then. While at the hospital my husband (who witnessed the assault) called the cops... View More

Albin Moser
PREMIUM
Albin Moser pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Aug 16, 2023

It's not too late for you to file a complaint with the police department. It is up to the police whether or not to investigate it. It is up to prosecutors whether or not to bring evidence to a grand jury, get an indictment and charge your brother. You have other options in addition to this.... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Car Accidents for Rhode Island on
Q: Is there a good chance that I can qualify for accelerated rehabilitation it being my first offense?

Also being charged for driving to endanger resulting in serious bodily injury. It is not what happened but its what I'm being told.

Neville Bedford
Neville Bedford
answered on Dec 21, 2022

"what I'm being told ..." Hopefully, you are being guided, informed, and represented by a licensed attorney who is helping you topprepare and defend the case. Part of that advice will likley include NOT making ANY statements in public (forum like this) to preserve your constitutional... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Rhode Island on
Q: A officer came to my house and took my pistol and my permit for further investigation how can i get it back from them

There where no arrest or charges the reason they came to my house because someone was following me and pull up in my window at 10pm and he had something in his hands i keep driving we ended up in a dead end street i felt threat and i warning shot 3 time to the air the person call the cops on me and... View More

Neville Bedford
Neville Bedford
answered on Dec 7, 2022

As a criminal defendant, your fifth amendment right to remain silent is very important. This includes public boards like this. I would highly recommend that you consult with a licensed attorney in your area confidentially, to discuss your rights responsibilities and explore possible defenses to the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Rhode Island on
Q: What do you call planting drugs on someone

I saw a video once on Facebook where a woman calls the cops on a kid who's selling lemon aid because he doesn't have a permit and when nothing happens she takes a bag of drugs from some random person she finds asleep in like a park and plant's it in the kids back pack because she... View More

Neville Bedford
Neville Bedford
answered on Nov 7, 2022

This is not a hypothetical movie-time question page offering advice on Facebook videos. Watch the video again and if you still can't answer the question write on that person's Facebook wall.

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Rhode Island on
Q: I saw a video recently where a woman Illegally Adopted a kid

then she tried to basically sell him when she decided she didn't want him, what would that be classified as?

Neville Bedford
Neville Bedford
answered on Nov 7, 2022

https://www.imdb.com/search/keyword/?keywords=baby-selling

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Rhode Island on
Q: I got a summons for obstructing police duty do I need a lawyer for my summons date
Neville Bedford
Neville Bedford
answered on Nov 2, 2022

An attorney is your best choice for helping advocate while navigating the procedural path of defending a criminal charge. If you qualify, and cannot afford an attorney, the court may appoint a public defender to assist you.

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Rhode Island on
Q: I was arrested for taking my wife's phone when she threatened to call the police. They asked me in my home if I took her

Phone and I said yes. They put me in handcuffs and took me to the station without ever reading me my rights. Is my statement I made in my house admissible in court?

Thomas Briody
Thomas Briody
answered on Jul 24, 2022

The answer is most like yes, your statement is admissible. The police will argue that you were not in custody at the time you made the statement. Miranda warnings (rights, as you call them) are only required to be administered when you are not free to leave and the police question you. You need... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Rhode Island on
Q: I have a no contact order against me by my wife. If I change my FB profile picture to us and two kids is it a violation?
Thomas Briody
Thomas Briody
answered on Jul 23, 2022

This is a very bad idea. It will be interpreted as an attempt to connect with her, in violation of the order. Maybe you could argue that is not your intent, but I highly doubt that a judge will believe you. Don’t do it.

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Federal Crimes for Rhode Island on
Q: Can I get charged for a felony by helping a detective retrieve a stolen firearm
Thomas Briody
Thomas Briody
answered on May 18, 2022

Depends on the circumstances in which you “helped.” It’s not automatic, but gun offenses are treated harshly in Rhode Island. You need to speak directly and privately with an attorney.

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Federal Crimes and Gov & Administrative Law for Rhode Island on
Q: i was wondering if a non violent felon can own a non-lethal weapon in the state of rhode island? the felony charges were

15 years ago.

Thomas Briody
Thomas Briody
answered on Mar 2, 2022

Felons cannot possess a firearm. I am not sure what you mean by ‘non lethal.’ A baseball bat can be lethal, but there is no law against possessing one. Knives are also lethal, but you can possess one in most circumstances. Maybe you should consult a lawyer in private, and be more specific... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law for Rhode Island on
Q: If I haven’t been formally charged I believe I am innocent and Can prove it can I file for a review and how
Thomas Briody
Thomas Briody
answered on Feb 23, 2022

If you have not been charged, there is nothing to prove. The burden is always on the state to prove guilt. But that is not the end of the inquiry. If you think police are considering charging you, but believe you have evidence that will help convince them that charges are not warranted, you need... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Rhode Island on
Q: I was arrested in Rhode Island with a tiny small amount of cocaine(0.1 gram) but charged with 10g or less. What to do?

I was not qualify for public defender. What should I do?? Can I represent myself ?? Should I plead guilty or not ? If so, what am I looking at ? My first offense.

Neville Bedford
Neville Bedford
answered on Jan 20, 2022

Invest in your freedom, liberty, and record by retaining a capable criminal defense attorney to help you evaluate your options, and formulate your best defense, in confidence. they will also help to discern if you qualify to participate in the diversion program.

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Animal / Dog Law for Rhode Island on
Q: I rescued 6 wk old blind bulldog. I pay all the vet bills,heartwarm grooming ect. Reg to me. How do I get her back
Neville Bedford
Neville Bedford
answered on Dec 6, 2021

It is unclear from whom or what you wish to get your rescue pet back from. If the pet was stolen from you, you may try contacting the police. If an owner with superior title has taken the pet, you may have to file a civil case. Make arrangements to meet with your local attorney to discuss all of... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Federal Crimes for Rhode Island on
Q: What do I do if a 16 year old is summoned to a family court but is outta state to attend the court what happens
Neville Bedford
Neville Bedford
answered on Jul 20, 2021

Family court is being held remotely now = online. Speak with your attorney to find the login credentials and avoid offending the court.

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Criminal Law, Federal Crimes and Traffic Tickets for Rhode Island on
Q: If I live in CT & got a ticket in Rhode island. I would like to fight it in court. Do RI or CT laws apply 2 me in court

I have been driving 2 years, I have a clean record, great credit.

Randy Bryan Ligh
Randy Bryan Ligh
answered on Jun 23, 2021

Traffic ticket issued in Rhode Island so you are under the jurisdiction and law of Rhode Island. It is recommended that you contact a Rhode Island traffic ticket attorney to discuss your matter and options----depending on the circumstances, you might be able to hire the RI attorney and he might be... View More

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.