Providence Misdemeanor Defense Attorney

Protecting Your Legal Rights in Rhode Island

Misdemeanor offenses are all too common problems in all cities and towns throughout Rhode Island. Our legal system in Rhode Island handles thousands of misdemeanor and petty crime cases every year. The severity of punishment for Rhode Island misdemeanor offenses can usually depend on the nature of the charges and the nature of the situation, and the Court is free to order expenses for things like probation, counseling, and more in addition to the received penalty.

Don't make the mistake of underestimating the consequences of a misdemeanor charge - our misdemeanor attorney in Rhode Island has helped thousands, and can help you too.

Call (401) 354-2255 or reach out online right away to see how our misdemeanor attorneys in Providence can help you.

Understanding Misdemeanors Charges in Rhode Island

According to the RI courts, a misdemeanor is defined as any crime for which an individual may be imprisoned for twelve or fewer months. Misdemeanors in Rhode Island are divided into three classes: 

• Class A Misdemeanors are the most serious.
• Class B Misdemeanors are less severe.
• Class C Misdemeanors are the least serious.

Most of the crimes that we hear about every day on the news are criminal acts which are classified as misdemeanor offenses. If you have been accused of any misdemeanor offense, a Providence misdemeanor attorney from our office is available to help you.

Class A Misdemeanors

Class A misdemeanors are the most serious category of misdemeanors in Rhode Island. A conviction for a Class A misdemeanor can result in up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

Examples of Class A Misdemeanors:

• Simple assault (without serious bodily injury)
• First-offense driving under the influence (DUI)
• Domestic violence offenses
• Vandalism causing damage to property
• Possession of drug paraphernalia

Class B Misdemeanors

Class B misdemeanors are considered less severe than Class A misdemeanors but still carry serious consequences. A Class B misdemeanor conviction can result in up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $500.

Examples of Class B Misdemeanors:

• Disorderly conduct (such as public drunkenness or fighting)
• Minor theft or larceny (theft of property valued under $500)
• Reckless driving
• Trespassing

Class C Misdemeanors

Class C misdemeanors are considered the least serious category of misdemeanor offenses in Rhode Island. A conviction for a Class C misdemeanor may result in up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $250.

Examples of Class C Misdemeanors:

• Littering or illegal dumping
• Public intoxication (without causing disturbance)
• Minor shoplifting (with property valued under $150)
• Loitering

Additional Penalties for Misdemeanor Convictions in Rhode Island

Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, but they still carry significant penalties that can affect your future. Besides jail time and fines, penalties for a misdemeanor conviction in Rhode Island can include:

• Probation: In some cases, a judge may opt to place the defendant on probation instead of sending them to jail. During probation, the defendant will be required to comply with certain conditions, such as attending counseling, avoiding further criminal activity, and meeting regularly with a probation officer.
• Community Service: Community service may be imposed as part of a misdemeanor sentence, especially for crimes like vandalism or disorderly conduct. Community service often involves working for a nonprofit organization or helping with public works projects.
• Criminal Record: A misdemeanor conviction results in a permanent criminal record, which can have lasting consequences on employment, housing, and other opportunities. In some cases, individuals convicted of misdemeanors may be able to seek expungement or sealing of their record after a certain period of time.

The Sentencing Process

In Rhode Island, the sentencing process for misdemeanors follows a structured procedure, guided by the severity of the offense, the defendant’s criminal history, and other factors that may influence the outcome.

The sentencing process for misdemeanors typically involves several key steps:

• Pre-Sentence Investigation: A pre-sentence investigation may be ordered to gather information about the defendant’s background, criminal history, and mitigating factors, which will assist in determining an appropriate sentence.
• Consideration of Factors: The judge reviews the seriousness of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and any aggravating or mitigating circumstances to decide on the sentence.
• Sentencing Hearing: Both the prosecution and defense present their arguments at the sentencing hearing. The defendant may speak directly to the court, which could impact the judge’s decision.
• Types of Sentences for Misdemeanors: Misdemeanor sentences in Rhode Island may include jail time, probation, fines, restitution, or participation in diversion programs. Jail sentences vary by the severity of the crime.
• Post-Sentencing Options: After sentencing, the defendant may appeal the conviction, request a sentence modification, or seek parole if eligible.
• Impact of Plea Deals: A plea deal may allow the defendant to plead guilty in exchange for a reduced sentence or lesser charges. Plea deals are common and can help avoid trial. A defense attorney can help negotiate favorable terms.

Expungement of Misdemeanor Convictions

While a misdemeanor conviction can result in a criminal record, individuals may have the opportunity to have their records expunged under certain conditions. Expungement is a legal process that allows for the removal of a criminal conviction from a person’s record. After expungement, the conviction will no longer show up on background checks. If you are eligible for expungement, a Providence misdemeanor defense lawyer can help guide you through the process and advocate on your behalf.

Charges Handled by a Skilled Providence Misdemeanor Lawyer

When handed a summons for a criminal offense, every small case must have a big trial. A good misdemeanor attorney in Providence will significantly increase the chance of lowering sentencing times, lowering case penalties, and saving you money.

Convictions always cost more than a misdemeanor lawyer. The consequences of a misdemeanor conviction can be far-reaching, affecting your ability to find a job, secure housing, or continue your education. With the help of an experienced defense attorney, you can work to minimize these consequences and protect your future.

Call (401) 354-2255 or connect with us online now to find out how our experienced Providence misdemeanor attorneys can help your case.