East Providence Criminal Defense Lawyer

Home |  East Providence Criminal Defense Lawyer

best east providence criminal defense lawyer

East Providence Criminal Defense Attorney

When you want to be close to the city but prefer a quieter, more relaxing suburban environment, East Providence is an excellent choice. Steeped in history, there are plenty of historical attractions, like the John Hunt House, and plenty of parks for enjoying outdoor leisure. It can be challenging when criminal charges keep you from enjoying everything East Providence has to offer. For assistance, contact an East Providence criminal defense lawyer.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Being accused of a crime is difficult for any person to face alone. At Ellison Law LLC, we use a client-centered approach that allows us to hear and understand what our clients are experiencing. We employ three strategies in every case we fight. We simultaneously challenge factual issues, legal issues, and present the human side of the case. Our team has helped thousands of residents in Rhode Island fight criminal charges.

Types of Cases We Handle

We handle numerous criminal defense cases in East Providence, Rhode Island, including:

  • Violent crimes: Offenses in this category include assault, assault on a police officer, assault of a health care provider, domestic violence, and resisting arrest.
  • Property crimes: These involve acts such as breaking and entering, larceny, shoplifting, stealing, vandalism, trespassing, and possession of a stolen vehicle.
  • Driving offenses: Common charges include DUI, reckless driving, hit and run, driving on a suspended license, and operating a vehicle without the owner’s consent.
  • Drug-related crimes: These include possession of a controlled substance, other drug offenses, minor in possession of alcohol, and transporting alcohol by a minor.
  • Firearm offenses: This encompasses violations involving the illegal possession, use, or carrying of a firearm.
  • Probation and court violations: These cover failures to follow court directives, including violations of no-contact orders.
  • Miscellaneous charges: This category includes conspiracy, obstruction of justice, disorderly conduct, and a range of other misdemeanor or felony charges.

Crime Rates in Rhode Island

The Uniform Crime Reporting Program recorded 154 violent crimes and 1,032 property crimes per 100,000 residents in 2024. Both figures were well below the national averages of 359 and 1,760 per 100,000 people, demonstrating Rhode Island’s comparatively low overall crime rate.

Benefits of Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing impending criminal charges can be terrifying. Having an experienced East Providence criminal defense attorney guide you through the process offers benefits to make the process more manageable. These benefits include:

  • Knowledge of the system: Having a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney to guide you through the system can help ease stress. Criminal defense attorneys have knowledge of applicable criminal defense laws that may benefit your criminal defense case.
  • An individualized approach: No two criminal defense cases are the same, and as such, each case requires a unique approach devised based on the unique circumstances of your case.
  • Rights protection: One of the hallmarks of the American legal system is the protection of constitutional rights. A skilled attorney can challenge criminal charges when they violate your rights.
  • Support system: It’s important to have someone to support you through the court process. A qualified attorney can explain what to expect and provide guidance on the likely outcome of your case.
  • Courtroom relationships: A local attorney should have experience working with the same prosecutors and judges across a variety of cases. These established relationships can be beneficial when it comes time to negotiate reduced charges, plea agreements, or reduced sentencing.

FAQs

What Is the Strongest Type of Defense to a Criminal Charge?

The strongest type of defense to a criminal charge should be the one that is most strongly supported by the facts of the case. Usually, your defense falls into one of four categories: innocence, constitutional violations, self-defense, or insanity. The strongest strategy to use is determined by the information you provide your criminal defense attorney. Being completely honest with your attorney is a good way to ensure a strong legal defense.

What Is the Mental Duress Defense?

The mental duress defense is a type of criminal defense that says the defendant committed the crime they are accused of, but only because they were forced to by another person. This is a rarely used defense strategy as it can be challenging to prove. The defendant must show that they had a well-grounded fear of imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm. They must demonstrate that there was no reasonable escape or legal alternative to the crime committed.

Do Criminal Defense Attorneys Spend Most of Their Time in Court?

The amount of time a criminal defense attorney spends in court varies by firm. Larger firms with many attorneys allow each to hone their skills, meaning some may spend most of their time in court, while others do a majority of the research and client meetings. Smaller firms have attorneys with more balanced schedules.

Along with court appearances, attorneys spend time reviewing client cases, negotiating for reduced sentences or plea agreements, preparing strategies, and communicating with clients.

How Often Do Criminal Defense Lawyers Win?

There is no single number to decide how often criminal defense lawyers win. The role of the defense lawyer is varied and not easily measurable to determine how often they are successful versus the prosecution. Only a small percentage of cases go to trial.

More often, a criminal defense attorney negotiates for reduced charges, for a favorable plea agreement, or for reduced or deferred sentencing. The goal is to present the facts to produce a favorable outcome for the client.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Rhode Island?

There is no set cost to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Rhode Island. While some attorneys charge a flat fee for their services, others charge an hourly rate. The cost varies with the specific characteristics of your case. Misdemeanors are usually less expensive than felony charges, but factors such as the length of the case and whether the case goes to trial are also considerations. You may need to pay a retainer fee before work can begin.

Contact Ellison Law LLC

We believe every defendant is entitled to compassion, respect, and dignity as they navigate through Rhode Island’s criminal justice system. Having an advocate for your rights can help improve your odds of a favorable outcome. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

East Providence Practice Areas

Testimonials

Contact Us Today

Fields marked with an “*” are required