Johnston Criminal Defense Lawyer

Home |  Johnston Criminal Defense Lawyer

best johnston criminal defense lawyer

Criminal Defense Attorney in Johnston, RI

Facing a criminal charge can turn your whole world upside down, affecting every aspect of your life, from your job and your family to your standing in the community. If you’ve been accused of a crime in Johnston, it’s critical to have someone in your corner who knows the local courts and understands the seriousness of the situation. An experienced Johnston, RI criminal defense lawyer can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and ensure your truth is told.

We believe in being prepared and having the right perspective. Every case we take on deserves time, attention, clear communication, and a defense strategy built around the facts.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Facing criminal charges can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. At Ellison Law LLC, we understand the anxiety and uncertainty that you may be feeling, which is why we have established ourselves as a firm with longstanding connections to Rhode Island’s court system and a proven track record of effectively guiding our clients through the criminal justice process with clarity and confidence.

We are committed to providing you with honest, straightforward, and comprehensive representation that is centered around your needs and preparedness. Our extensive experience in the field, as well as our reputation among our peers, is a testament to the care and dedication we provide with each and every defense that we build.

The Impact of a Criminal Record in Rhode Island

A criminal conviction can stick with you long after your sentence has concluded. From background checks to job applications to housing forms, it can surface at any time. With a crime rate of 23.97 per 1,000 residents in Johnston, crimes are taken seriously by law enforcement. Even minor offenses can restrict your options, which is why it is important to protect your record. Some common long-term consequences are:

  • Employment and professional licensing barriers
  • Restrictions on housing and financial aid
  • Travel or immigration complications

Criminal supervision beyond incarceration is common in Rhode Island, meaning many residents remain under probation or parole after their case ends.

As of 2022, 1,987 residents per 100,000 were under community corrections supervision, showing just how often criminal convictions lead to extended oversight.

When Negotiation Becomes the Right Defense Strategy?

Not all criminal cases need to go to trial. In fact, in many cases, negotiation plays an important role in the defense process. A well-crafted plea, dismissal, or diversion can keep you from being convicted or limit the consequences of a conviction. Effective negotiation requires both an understanding of your target outcome and entering negotiations with a defined strategy. Our legal team can help you through both.

We can guide you to balance the dangers of going to trial against the benefits of settling your case, while safeguarding your future and limiting your exposure. A well-executed defense strategy can be the right approach to safely return you to your normal life without public attention.

Navigating the Johnston Court Process

Most criminal matters in Johnston start in the District Court for arraignments and bail hearings. Serious offenses get moved to Providence County Superior Court. Learning the inner workings of these courts can make a difference in your case, whether the issue is about scheduling, plea negotiations, or pretrial rulings.

At each stage, there are risks and opportunities, and our Johnston attorneys can let you know what to expect. At every step of the process, we walk clients through their options in a language they can understand so they can make choices that are in their interest and preserve their rights.

Cases We Handle in Johnston, RI

At Ellison Law LLC, our practice includes criminal defense clients throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts. We take on any and all charges, from misdemeanors to the most serious felony charges, using skill and strategy, and focusing on protecting your rights. Cases we handle include:

  • Assault & Battery (including Assault on a Police Officer and Assault of Health Care Providers)
  • Domestic Violence & Violation of a No Contact Order
  • Robbery & Larceny Charges
  • Drug Offenses & Marijuana Possession
  • Possession of Controlled Substances
  • Firearms & Weapons Offenses
  • Disorderly Conduct & Vandalism
  • Shoplifting & Possession of Stolen Vehicle or Parts
  • Reckless Driving & Driving on a Suspended License
  • DUI / OUI Cases (including Commercial DUI, DUI-Drugs & Breathalyzer Refusal)
  • Juvenile Defense & Minor in Possession of Alcohol
  • Expungement & Record Sealing
  • Probation Violations & Bail Violations
  • Resisting Arrest, Trespassing & Obstruction of Justice

FAQs About Criminal Defense in Johnston, RI

Can I Get My Criminal Record Expunged in Johnston?

You can potentially get your criminal record expunged in Rhode Island. Whether or not a particular offense is eligible for expungement is dependent on the nature of the offense and your overall criminal history. An individual is eligible for expungement upon the expiration of certain waiting periods and the satisfaction of any terms or conditions of sentencing. Felonies may be more difficult to expunge than misdemeanors.

What Does Community Corrections Supervision Mean?

Probation, parole, and home confinement are three types of community corrections supervision. These sanctions allow offenders to serve all or a portion of their sentence in the community instead of in custody. Rhode Island has one of the highest rates of supervision in the nation. Individuals on community supervision live under court supervision and oversight even after conviction. Violation of terms could lead to re-arrest or jail.

What Happens at an Arraignment in Johnston?

An arraignment is the first court appearance you’ll make after being charged. At an arraignment, the judge will read the charges and ask you to enter a plea. Bail or conditions of release may also be set at this time. This is also when your defense officially begins. It’s a good idea to have a lawyer with you at the arraignment to make sure your rights are protected and you don’t inadvertently say something that might hurt your case later.

What Are My Rights During a Police Search or Arrest?

During a police search or arrest, you have the right to stay silent and the right to a lawyer. The police cannot search your home or other property without probable cause or a valid search warrant. If your property was searched unlawfully, any evidence obtained in that search can be contested in court. You can refuse a search that you believe is unlawful and let your attorney handle the matter in court.

Contact a Johnston Criminal Defense Lawyer

Facing criminal charges in Johnston can have life-altering consequences in a very short period of time. It is important that you have a criminal defense plan in place as early as possible. From your arraignment to your resolution, your criminal defense matters.

At Ellison Law LLC, we care about the circumstances of your case, the evidence against you, and how this case will affect your life. We are here to guide you through the process with practical solutions and communication every step of the way. Contact us today to hire a criminal defense lawyer and see how we can help develop a criminal defense plan just for you.

Johnston Practice Areas

Testimonials

Contact Us Today

Fields marked with an “*” are required