1. Law Offices of Thomas G. Briody
Focus Area: Criminal defense with 30+ years experience in state and federal courts
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, assault, sex crimes, domestic violence, white-collar crimes, federal crimes, appeals
Background: At the Law Offices of Thomas G. Briody, clients have been served throughout the state in a broad range of criminal matters since 1993. With three decades of experience, the firm is ready to deliver the thorough, dedicated representation required, providing a solid defense of rights in criminal proceedings. Mr. Briody is an attorney in Providence, Rhode Island who represents defendants in criminal cases in the state and federal courts. Mr. Briody practices in the District and Superior Courts of Rhode Island, the United States District Court, and the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit, the Rhode Island Supreme Court. He is admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of the United States. Mr. Briody is a past President of the Rhode Island Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. The firm provides thoughtful representation, keeping clients informed through every stage of the case, addressing concerns, and helping make informed decisions regarding the right course of action.
Location: Providence, Rhode Island
Contact: (401) 751-5151 | https://briodylaw.com/
Consultation: Free consultation available
2. Law Office of Brett V. Beaubien
Focus Area: Criminal defense in Rhode Island and Massachusetts state and federal courts
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, assault and battery, domestic violence, sex crimes, gun crimes, fraud, cyber harassment, expungement, appeals
Background: Strong legal representation is key to a fair trial. In Rhode Island, the Law Office of Brett V. Beaubien embodies this principle as a criminal defense law firm. The firm’s dedication to justice and client success is unwavering, providing not just legal counsel but a fortress of advocacy to all who seek services. Mr. Beaubien is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in criminal offense under Rhode Island and Massachusetts state law as well as federal criminal law. He handles drug crimes, gun crimes, sex crimes, fraud charges, assault and battery, disorderly conduct, domestic violence offenses, and a wide range of other criminal offenses. Attorney Beaubien handles state and federal criminal charges of all kinds, regardless of complexity, from DUI defense and minor drug crimes to violent crimes such as assault and battery and domestic violence charges. While many firms delegate cases to legal assistants, the firm guarantees direct communication with an attorney regarding your case.
Location: Providence, Rhode Island
Contact: (401) 246-8579 | https://www.bvbdefense.com/
Consultation: Free consultation available; Hablamos español
3. Marin & Murphy Law Firm
Focus Area: Criminal defense with former prosecutor experience serving Providence and surrounding areas
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, assault, domestic violence, theft, traffic offenses
Background: Facing criminal charges in Rhode Island can result in severe consequences under current state law, including potential jail time, substantial fines, and long-term impacts on employment and personal records. At Marin & Murphy Law Firm, the experienced attorneys, familiar with local prosecutors and procedures in Rhode Island District and Superior Courts across Providence, Cranston, Warwick, and other areas, provide dedicated representation to protect your rights throughout the legal process. When you hire a RI Criminal Defense Lawyer to handle your criminal case, you want to be assured that you have an experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorney in your corner. The team’s criminal defense lawyer qualifications include extensive courtroom experience, deep knowledge of Rhode Island laws, and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest legal developments to ensure the most effective defense for clients. As dedicated Rhode Island criminal defense attorneys, they have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against a wide range of charges.
Location: Providence, Rhode Island (serves Providence, Cranston, Warwick)
Contact: (401) 228-8271 | https://www.matthewtmarin.com/
Consultation: Free consultation available
4. Robert H. Humphrey, Attorney at Law
Focus Area: Criminal defense with former prosecutor, bail commissioner, and municipal court judge experience
Practice Areas: DUI/DWI/OUI, sex crimes, assault, drug crimes, domestic violence, violent crimes
Background: As a former prosecutor, Bail Commissioner, and Municipal Court Judge, Rhode Island criminal defense attorney Humphrey has experience handling all sides of a criminal case, and he can defend you. In addition to drunk driving cases, Rhode Island criminal defense attorney Humphrey handles a wide variety of criminal matters, from first-degree sexual assault to misdemeanors. He has educated Rhode Island lawyers in DUI and criminal cases. Whether you’ve been charged with a violent crime like murder or a mere alcohol-related offense, you can trust a leader in the criminal law field to provide the defense you deserve. Attorney Humphrey is the author of Rhode Island’s DUI Practice Manual. The firm takes an honest and straightforward approach to DUI and Criminal Defense cases. Attorney Robert Humphrey proudly serves Rhode Island, including Barrington, Bristol, Coventry, Middletown, Narragansett, Newport, North Kingstown, Portsmouth, Providence, South Kingstown, Tiverton, Warwick, and URI.
Location: Providence, Rhode Island (serves statewide)
Contact: (401) 441-5486 | https://www.rhumphreylaw.com/
Consultation: Free criminal case evaluation available; available 24 hours a day
5. Orabona Law Offices, P.C.
Focus Area: Full-service law firm with criminal defense, personal injury, and family law
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, assault, domestic violence, theft, traffic offenses, federal crimes
Background: Orabona Law Offices, P.C. employs trial attorneys, case managers, case analysts, and investigators who are dedicated to the representation of clients. They also use computerized research tools that provide quick access to all of the most current legal developments that will help win cases. The goal is to achieve the results for clients. The office is centrally located in downtown Providence, Rhode Island, only steps from the Rhode Island courthouse. The firm is engaged in the general practice of law with an emphasis on litigation. General practice areas include but are not limited to civil litigation, criminal defense, personal injury, automobile accident cases, bankruptcy, real estate, workers compensation, family law, and estate planning. At Orabona Law Offices, they’ve been helping clients in Rhode Island for over 20 years. The track record in handling criminal cases is quite successful, with the ideal goal always being to get your case dismissed, when possible.
Location: 129 Dorrance Street, Providence, Rhode Island
Contact: (401) 272-0800 | https://www.orabonalaw.com/
Consultation: Free immediate consultation available
Criminal Defense Laws in Rhode Island
Felony Classifications
Rhode Island does not use a traditional class system for felonies. Instead, penalties are set by specific statute:
Life Felonies: First-degree murder carries life imprisonment without parole. Second-degree murder carries 10 years to life imprisonment.
Major Felonies: Penalties vary by statute. First-degree robbery carries 10-life imprisonment. First-degree sexual assault carries up to life imprisonment.
Drug Trafficking: Penalties depend on substance and quantity. Trafficking in heroin (1+ oz) carries 10-50 years mandatory.
Misdemeanor Classifications
Rhode Island misdemeanors are generally punishable by up to 1 year in jail:
Petty Misdemeanor: Maximum 6 months and/or $500 fine.
Misdemeanor: Maximum 1 year and/or $1,000 fine.
Expungement
Rhode Island allows expungement of certain criminal records:
First Offender Expungement: Available for first-time offenders convicted of certain misdemeanors (5-year waiting period) or felonies (10-year waiting period).
Not Eligible: Crimes of violence, sexual offenses, and offenses against children are generally not eligible.
Effect: Expunged records are sealed from public view.
DUI Laws
Rhode Island DUI applies to driving with BAC of .08% or higher (.04% commercial, .02% under 21). First offense carries up to 1 year jail, $100-$300 fine, 30-180 day license suspension, community service, and alcohol education. Second offense within 5 years carries 10 days to 1 year jail, $400-$3,000 fine, 1-2 year license suspension, and mandatory ignition interlock. Third offense within 5 years is a felony with 1-5 years prison, $1,000-$5,000 fine, and 2-3 year license suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
What courts handle criminal cases in Providence?
Criminal cases in Providence are handled by multiple courts depending on the offense. Providence District Court (6th Division) handles misdemeanors, violations, and felony arraignments. Providence County Superior Court handles felony trials. Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal handles traffic offenses. Federal criminal cases are handled by the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island. The Providence County Superior Court is located at the Licht Judicial Complex on South Main Street. Having a Providence criminal defense attorney familiar with local judges and prosecutors provides an advantage in navigating your case.
What are the penalties for drug possession in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island has varying penalties depending on the substance. Possession of marijuana (1 oz or less) is a civil violation with a $150 fine for adults 21+. Possession of marijuana (over 1 oz) is a misdemeanor with up to 1 year jail. Possession of Schedule I-IV controlled substances (first offense) is punishable by up to 3 years imprisonment and $5,000 fine. Possession with intent to deliver carries enhanced penalties. Drug court and diversion programs may be available for eligible offenders. A Providence criminal defense attorney can evaluate eligibility for alternative sentencing.
What is Rhode Island’s expungement process?
Rhode Island allows expungement for first-time offenders after waiting periods. For misdemeanors, the waiting period is 5 years from completion of sentence. For certain felonies, the waiting period is 10 years from completion of sentence. Crimes of violence, domestic violence, sexual offenses, and offenses against children are generally not eligible. The effect of expungement is that the record is sealed from public view. The expungement petition is filed in the court where the conviction occurred. A Providence criminal defense attorney can evaluate eligibility and guide you through the process.
What happens if I am charged with DUI in Providence?
A DUI charge in Providence carries serious consequences. Rhode Island has a tiered penalty system based on BAC level and prior offenses. First offense (BAC .08-.10%) carries up to 1 year jail, $100-$300 fine, 30-180 day license suspension, 10-60 hours community service, and DUI school. Higher BAC levels (.10-.15% and .15%+) carry enhanced penalties. Second offense within 5 years carries mandatory 10 days jail, $400-$3,000 fine, and 1-2 year license suspension. Rhode Island has an implied consent law with separate refusal penalties. A Providence criminal defense attorney can challenge the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and breathalyzer results.
What should I do if I am arrested in Providence?
If arrested in Providence, it is critical to remain calm and remember your rights. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Do not answer questions beyond basic identification without consulting with a defense attorney. Do not consent to searches without a warrant. Contact a Providence criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Bail is typically set at arraignment. For most misdemeanors, you may be released on personal recognizance. For felonies, bail amounts vary based on the offense and your criminal history. A Providence criminal defense attorney can advocate for reasonable bail conditions.