What to Do If Charged with a Gun Crime in Rhode Island

By David Ellison

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Criminal Defense

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Last Modified on Mar 20, 2026

The Second Amendment guarantees the right to own a firearm to eligible citizens, but states also have the right to set limits on where firearms are permitted. If you are a gun owner, you may wonder what to do if charged with a gun crime in Rhode Island. A gun crime conviction can have lasting negative effects on your life and could prevent you from owning a gun in the future. If you are facing charges, you need to hire a gun crime lawyer.

Gun Deaths in Rhode Island

Gun crimes are primarily handled in superior court. Rhode Island has a specialized gun court that offers fast-track prosecution. The gun court is located in the Licht Judicial Complex located in Providence.

The Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions releases gun death information for Rhode Island. In 2023, there were a total of 58 gun deaths, a 55% increase from the previous year. Since 2014, gun deaths have increased 60%.

From 1999 to 2023, 60% of all homicides and 34% of all suicides in Rhode Island were committed with a firearm.

Typical Steps in a Gun Crime Charge

When you have been charged with a gun crime, some typical steps in the criminal justice process have to be completed. These steps include:

• Arrest: If there is credible evidence that a crime has been committed, an arrest may be made on the spot. If accusations are made later, an arrest warrant may be issued and the accused detained by police.
• Booking: After an arrest, the accused is taken for booking. During booking, personal information, fingerprints, and pictures are taken and entered into the system.
• Arraignment: The first appearance before a judge is called an arraignment. During arraignment, the charges are read, the accused has an opportunity to enter a plea, and conditions of bail are set. It is important to have an attorney at this stage of the process.
• Pretrial: Once a plea has been entered, pretrial preparations begin. The prosecution shares the evidence they have collected through discovery. The defense can submit motions at this point and attempt to negotiate a plea agreement or reduced charges.
• Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial. At trial, both sides present their evidence and arguments before a judge and jury for consideration. The judge or jury then decides the verdict.
• Sentencing: If the verdict is not guilty, the accused is free to go. If the verdict is guilty, the judge determines an appropriate sentence.

Your Next Steps

If you have been charged with a gun crime, there are some important steps you can take to help in your defense. These steps include:

• Retain an experienced gun crime attorney: An attorney can review your case, gather evidence, challenge legal issues, and help build a defense.
• Understand the charges: Discuss the charges with your attorney to make sure you understand what you have been charged with.
• Know your rights and use them: You have the right to counsel before talking with the police or prosecution. You also have the right to remain silent until you speak with an attorney.

FAQs

Can Gun Charges in Rhode Island be Reduced, Dismissed, or Resolved Through a Plea Agreement?

Yes, gun charges can be reduced, dismissed, or resolved through a plea agreement in Rhode Island. Strict gun laws have to be upheld, but there are situations that allow for reduced or dismissed charges. If evidence is suppressed, it could lead to a dismissal. The prosecution has the discretion to reduce charges and arrange plea agreements. There may also be diversion programs that lead to the charges being dismissed or reduced.

How Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Help Protect My Rights After a Gun Crime Charge in Rhode Island?

If you are facing a gun crime charge in Rhode Island, there are several ways a criminal defense lawyer can help protect your rights. Your attorney can review your case and determine if the police or prosecution violated any of your rights. An attorney can also help with the collection of evidence and eyewitness testimony. If evidence is collected illegally, they can motion to have that evidence suppressed. They also know which gun laws apply to your case.

What Penalties Can I Face If Convicted of a Firearm Offense in Rhode Island?

If convicted of a firearm offense in Rhode Island, there are several possible penalties. Many offenses have mandatory minimum jail or prison sentences and large fines if convicted. These penalties are more severe for residents who are prohibited from owning a firearm.

You can also face many secondary penalties if convicted. The social stigma of having a criminal record can make personal and professional relationships difficult to maintain. You also face restrictions in finding suitable housing and when seeking employment.

Is Rhode Island a Stand Your Ground State?

No, Rhode Island is not a stand your ground state. You have a duty to retreat when threatened with violence in a public space. Self-defense is only permitted if there is no opportunity to safely retreat from the situation. Self-defense does not apply if you were the initial aggressor. Rhode Island does have a castle doctrine. If an intruder unlawfully and forcibly enters your home, you can use force to defend against the intruder even if you could safely retreat.

Can Gun Rights Be Restored After a Felony Conviction in Rhode Island?

Yes, in some situations, gun rights can be restored after a felony conviction in Rhode Island. If you have a felony conviction within the previous five years or three or more total felony convictions, you lose your right to possess a firearm. Unless you were convicted for a class A felony, a felony sex offense, have a current restraining order or injunction, or have been involuntarily committed, you can petition to have your gun rights restored.

Hire a Gun Crime Lawyer at Ellison Law LLC

You don’t have to face gun crime charges alone. Our team believes in honest, client-focused representation. We believe that every client deserves compassion, respect, and dignity while navigating the criminal justice system. Contact Ellison Law LLC today to schedule your initial consultation.