Bristol Criminal Defense Lawyer

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Criminal Defense Attorney in Bristol, RI

When criminal charges surface, it can feel like your reputation and peace of mind vanish overnight. In a close-knit community like Bristol, even an accusation can carry heavy consequences long before you reach the courtroom. Facing criminal charges can be daunting, but an experienced Bristol, RI criminal defense lawyer can guide you through the process with knowledge and strength.

Our legal team knows what’s on the line. Your freedom, livelihood, and future are all at risk, and we treat every case with the urgency it deserves. We understand that this is bigger than simply fighting a charge. We are fighting for you, your rights, and your ability to move forward with peace of mind.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

At Ellison Law LLC, we treat each and every criminal case as if it were our own. Your story is important to us and deserves to be heard. That is why we approach each case with a mix of legal experience and real-world know-how to develop the right defense strategy for you.

We can provide an aggressive defense to protect your reputation and everything that matters to you. Clients from across Rhode Island, including Bristol, choose us for our honesty, smart preparation, and focus on delivering real results when it counts the most.

Understanding Misdemeanor vs. Felony Charges in Rhode Island

According to recent data, Bristol has a violent crime rate of 0.02 per 1,000 residents, which is why it’s been named the state’s safest community for six consecutive years. Anyone charged locally can expect prosecutors to pursue cases rigorously.

Criminal charges in Bristol and elsewhere in Rhode Island are separated into two basic levels: misdemeanors and felonies. The District Court in Bristol handles misdemeanor cases such as simple assault, disorderly conduct, and shoplifting, which may result in imprisonment for up to one year. Charges involving felonies such as burglary and drug distribution move to the Providence County Superior Court.

The classification of your charge can affect potential penalties for felony convictions and aspects such as background check outcomes, future expungement eligibility, and the rights you currently have. One of the first things to do when developing a defense strategy is to determine what you are being charged with.

Cases We Handle in Bristol, RI

Our firm defends individuals throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts against nearly every type of criminal charge. From traffic tickets to complex felony cases, we know the local courts, the prosecutors, and the defenses that work. Common cases we handle include:

  • Assault, Battery & Domestic Violence Charges
  • Violations of a No Contact Order
  • Drug Possession, Distribution & Marijuana Crimes
  • Firearms & Weapons Offenses
  • Shoplifting, Robbery & Property Crimes
  • Disorderly Conduct & Vandalism
  • DUI, DUI-Drugs & Refusal to Submit to a Breath Test
  • Driving on a Suspended License or Without Consent of Owner
  • Juvenile Cases & Minor Alcohol Violations
  • Expungements, Record Sealing & Probation Violations
  • 46G Bail Violations, Resisting Arrest & Obstruction of Justice

The Role of Evidence in Building a Defense

In criminal cases, the evidence against a defendant is often what seals their fate. We know every detail matters, from body-cam footage and field sobriety test results to text messages or security camera footage. We’re just as interested in how that evidence was obtained, secured, and handled as we are in the evidence itself.

For example, if the police didn’t have a proper warrant to search your car or home, or if they mishandled the evidence, we know firsthand how that could be the difference between conviction and dismissal.

The results of your lab tests and eyewitness testimony may also be challenged or thrown out if the prosecution’s case wasn’t properly vetted every step of the way. We can thoroughly examine police reports, lab results, and witness statements in Bristol and across Rhode Island to ensure your rights and interests are protected.

The Growing Role of Probation and Community Supervision

Rhode Island has one of the highest rates of community corrections supervision in the country. The Rhode Island Department of Corrections reported 1,987 residents per 100,000 on probation or parole in 2022. If you fall into that population and avoid going to jail, you are still subject to strict conditions for months or years.

In Bristol and throughout Rhode Island, even a technical violation of probation could land you in jail. It’s critical to understand your conditions of supervision and how to avoid violating them. The consequences of a violation could harm your life, damage your record, and keep you trapped in the system. Our goal is always to help clients get past this point.

FAQs About Criminal Defense in Bristol, RI

How Long Does a Criminal Case Usually Take in Bristol?

The duration of a criminal case in Bristol varies. The timeline is determined by the severity of the charge and the court’s docket. Misdemeanor cases could be completed in a few months, but felony cases could take a year or more, especially if the case goes to trial. Sometimes, delays are necessary for discovery, negotiations, or pretrial motions. Your defense attorney is responsible for managing the deadlines and expediting your case.

Can a Criminal Conviction Affect My Job or License?

Yes, a criminal conviction can affect your job or license. Rhode Island employers and licensing agencies commonly run background checks. A misdemeanor can be troubling for many reasons. Convictions for some offenses, including theft, violence, or drug crimes, may affect your ability to get a professional license or certain jobs. An attorney advocating for a lesser or alternative sentence can help your reputation and employment options in the long run.

What Are the Penalties for Assault in Bristol?

Penalties vary for different types and degrees of assault. Simple assault is a misdemeanor, and domestic or aggravated assault can be charged as a felony. The penalties for assault include fines, probation, and even years of jail or prison time. Courts in Rhode Island also issue no-contact orders in many assault cases, and violations of these orders can also result in penalties.

What Is a No-Contact Order and How Does It Work?

A no-contact order bars alleged offenders from communicating with the alleged victim of a crime. You may not even speak to or about the alleged victim indirectly. If you break the order, you may face an additional charge. No-contact orders are usually issued in domestic violence or harassment cases. The person who obtained the order has the right to request its modification whenever existing conditions change or when it was initially established based on an error.

Contact a Bristol Criminal Defense Lawyer

A criminal charge in Bristol can make you fear for everything you have worked so hard to build. The pace of the criminal justice system is quick, and having someone who knows the law and the local system is critical to handling your case. At Ellison Law LLC, we treat each case with strategy, preparation, and empathy, because more than just your record is at stake. We can fight to protect your rights and help you make informed decisions throughout the process.

Call today to schedule a consultation and hire a criminal defense lawyer to move forward with confidence.

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