Pawtucket Criminal Defense Lawyer

Home |  Pawtucket Criminal Defense Lawyer

best pawtucket criminal defense lawyer

Pawtucket Criminal Defense Attorney

As the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, Pawtucket is steeped in history. Now, Pawtucket is a premier destination for the arts. While the city is an idyllic setting to start a business or raise a family, unexpected criminal charges can threaten the life you’ve built. A Pawtucket, RI, criminal defense lawyer knows the criminal defense laws specific to the area and can help build a strong defense for your case.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you need to hire a criminal defense lawyer, our team at Ellison Law LLC provides high-quality legal representation. We believe in a client-centered approach and fight each case with a three-pronged strategy. We challenge legal issues, factual issues, and present the human elements of your case. Our team has represented thousands of Rhode Island clients facing legal issues. You don’t have to face these challenges alone.

Types of Cases We Handle

At Ellison Law LLC, we handle numerous criminal defense cases common to Rhode Island, including:

  • Violent crimes: This includes general assault, assault on a police officer, assault of a health care provider, domestic violence, and resisting arrest.
  • Property crimes: This includes breaking and entering, larceny, stealing, vandalism, trespassing, shoplifting, and possession of a stolen vehicle.
  • Driving offenses: This includes DUI, reckless driving, hit and run, driving on a suspended license, and driving without the consent of the owner or lessee.
  • Drug-related crimes: This includes possession of a controlled substance, drug offenses, minor in possession of alcohol, and transporting alcohol by a minor.
  • Firearm offenses: This includes charges involving the unlawful possession, use, or carrying of a firearm.
  • Probation and court violations: This includes failure to comply with court orders, such as no-contact orders.
  • Other offenses: This includes conspiracy, obstruction of justice, disorderly conduct, and other misdemeanor or felony charges.

Crime Rates in Rhode Island

Every year, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) publishes national crime rates through its Uniform Crime Reporting Program. USAFacts has compiled this information to provide a review of Rhode Island’s crime rate in 2024 compared to the national average.

Nationally:

  • Violent crime rates were 359 per 100,000 people.
  • Property crime rates were 1,760 per 100,000 people.

In Rhode Island:

  • Violent crime rates were 154 offenses per 100,000 people.
  • Property crime rates were 1,032 per 100,000 people.

By comparison, Rhode Island’s violent crime rate was 57.2% lower, and the property crime rate was 41.3% lower than the national average.

Benefits of Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney

When faced with a criminal charge, there are several benefits to having an experienced Pawtucket criminal defense attorney review your case. These benefits include:

  • Honed skills and experience in criminal defense cases: A criminal defense attorney knows the inner workings of the court system and has extensive knowledge of criminal defense laws that may affect your case.
  • Individual assessment of your case: Every case is unique and requires a thorough review of the facts and circumstances before a proper defense strategy can be formulated.
  • Protecting your rights: Even when facing a criminal charge, you have constitutional rights that must be honored. If there are violations of these rights, you need a strong advocate for your freedoms.
  • Support system: Facing criminal charges is an emotionally overwhelming experience. Having level-headed guidance through the process can ensure you make rational decisions.
  • Established relationships: The court system is a closed environment where lawyers and judges work closely together. The relationships formed between defense attorneys, prosecutors, and judges can be beneficial when negotiating reduced charges, plea bargains, or reduced sentences.

FAQs

Can Criminal Defense Attorneys Still Offer Defense to Clients They Know Are Guilty?

Yes, even if they know their client is guilty, a criminal defense attorney can legally defend them. Attorneys are bound by the attorney-client privilege to keep all interactions confidential. Although an attorney cannot knowingly allow their client to commit perjury, there are still viable legal defenses that can be raised in court even if the client has confessed to the crime. If the client is factually guilty, they may not be found legally guilty if the charges cannot be proven.

Can You Shoot Someone for Trespassing in Pawtucket, Rhode Island?

Yes, through case law, Pawtucket, Rhode Island has established that you do not have a duty to retreat when defending your home. However, this case law only applies inside the home. There are three considerations when deciding if deadly force is necessary in self-defense. First, the response must be proportional. Second, the force must be necessary to prevent death or bodily harm. Third, the user must have a reasonable belief that the use of deadly force is necessary.

What Are the Four Main Lines of Defense That a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Use?

The four main defense strategies that a criminal defense attorney can use are innocence, constitutional violations, self-defense, and insanity. An innocence plea may seem straightforward, but you have to present evidence to prove your innocence. Constitutional violations can result in charges being dismissed for procedural errors. In self-defense, you are factually guilty but not legally responsible. Insanity blames mental instability for the crime.

Should I Tell My Criminal Defense Lawyer Everything?

Yes, you should tell your criminal defense lawyer everything that may be related to your case. Your criminal defense attorney can’t formulate an effective defense strategy if you leave out details of the case. Attorneys are bound by the attorney-client privilege, which means everything you tell your attorney is confidential. The greatest strategy is to tell your attorney everything up front so that they are not surprised by new information later that may damage your case.

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

The cost of a criminal defense lawyer in Rhode Island varies based on the unique factors of your case. The type of crime, the experience of the attorney, and the time and resources necessary to prepare for your case all affect the overall cost. You may have to pay a retainer fee before work begins on your case. Some attorneys charge a flat fee based on the offense, while others charge an hourly rate.

Contact Ellison Law LLC

Being accused of a crime is overwhelming and likely to leave you feeling unsure of your next move. At Ellison Law LLC, we know how important your case is, and we recognize the need for compassionate and honest representation. We see the person behind the accusations and want to help. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

Pawtucket Practice Areas

Testimonials

Contact Us Today

Fields marked with an “*” are required