West Warwick Criminal Defense Lawyer

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West Warwick Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal defense lawyers are a key part of our justice system. It is their job to protect your rights when you are facing allegations of a criminal offense. In some cases, this might mean representing you in court. A significant amount of legal work is conducted outside the courtroom as well. A West Warwick, RI, criminal defense lawyer at Ellison Law LLC has the skills and experience you need to increase your chances of a positive outcome.

Types of Cases We Handle

The lawyers at Ellison Law LLC focus on criminal defense cases. So we have extensive experience with a wide variety of criminal offenses. These include:

  • Assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Domestic violence
  • Violation of a no-contact order
  • Shoplifting
  • Larceny
  • Breaking and entering
  • Robbery
  • Possession of a stolen vehicle or parts
  • Trespassing
  • Vandalism
  • Traffic tickets
  • Driving on a suspended license
  • Hit & run
  • Reckless driving
  • DUI
  • Drug charges
  • Conspiracy charges
  • Firearms offenses
  • Juvenile charges
  • Minor in possession of alcohol
  • Resisting arrest
  • Obstruction of justice
  • Bail violations
  • Probation violations
  • Expungement
  • Record sealing

Rhode Island District Court (the 3rd Division District Court) handles most criminal cases in West Warwick, Rhode Island. For more serious felonies or appeals, cases may move to the Kent County Superior Court.

Protect Your Rights

In the United States, every criminal defendant has the right to certain legal protections, and knowing your rights can have a considerable impact on the outcome of your case. It is essential to know that your rights begin before you are even charged. Some of the most important rights for defendants include:

  • Legal representation: Every person accused of a criminal offense has the legal right to representation by a qualified attorney. If you can’t afford to hire a criminal defense attorney, the court is required to appoint one to you. An important distinction is that the court does not usually appoint a lawyer until your arraignment, where you are formally charged, but a private criminal defense lawyer can generally start representing you at any time.
  • Remain silent: When a law enforcement officer questions you, you have the right not to answer so you do not incriminate yourself. It is essential to inform the authorities that you are exercising your right to remain silent. Once you do, officials are not allowed to continue questioning you.
  • Search warrants: In order to search your person, home, or vehicle, or to take your belongings, law enforcement is required to either receive your consent or obtain a search warrant. If there is no warrant, you are not obligated to provide consent. The exception to this is that a search warrant is not required for officials to search you or your property at the time they arrest you.
  • A speedy trial: It is illegal to hold a defendant in jail with unjustified delays, and that means there are rigid guidelines in place to prevent such delays. If it is found that this right is violated, it can lead to dismissal of charges.

If you suspect your civil rights were violated, notify your lawyer immediately. Such allegations can be difficult to prove, but they can have a significant impact on your case.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

In 2024, approximately 14 million criminal offenses were reported to the FBI, with only about 2% of these cases proceeding to trial. In many cases, a trusted criminal defense attorney can have the charges reduced or even dismissed without ever having to go to court. More than 92% of cases that receive guilty dispositions come from the defendant pleading guilty, and many of these are lesser charges.

An experienced criminal defense lawyer can guide you through the legal process and ensure fair treatment as soon as you are arrested or even earlier if you know you’re being investigated. Your attorney can use their knowledge of Rhode Island criminal defense laws and court procedures, negotiation and litigation skills, and professional relationships and resources to determine your legal options.

FAQs

Can You Be Denied a Court-Appointed Lawyer?

Yes, in some cases, you can be denied a court-appointed lawyer, such as for minor traffic infractions. You can still hire a private lawyer, even in cases where a court-appointed lawyer is not an option. Many people are unaware that lawyer fees for certain charges can be lower than the fines associated with a guilty plea. Be sure to ask about potential fines during your initial consultation with your lawyer.

Should I Tell My Defense Lawyer Everything?

Yes, you should tell your defense lawyer everything that is relevant to your case and answer all their questions honestly so they can provide the most effective criminal defense possible. Your attorney is required to keep information related to your case confidential, and withholding information can hurt their ability to defend you against the allegations. It is important to be mindful of your attorney’s time and keep the discussion limited to the case.

What Should I Ask My Lawyer in the Consultation?

In the consultation, you should ask your lawyer how the law applies to your situation, what the possible outcomes and their consequences could be, and what you can do to make a favorable outcome more likely. In addition, be sure to ask about their fees, payment structure, and billing, as well as how often and through which means they can communicate with you, whether that is email, texting, or phone calls.

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

You should hire a criminal defense lawyer as early in the process as possible. The earlier you hire an attorney, the more time they have to make sure your rights are protected and work to provide the most effective legal defense possible in your case. In many cases, you can still hire a lawyer at any point throughout the process. If you’re facing criminal charges, always check with a defense lawyer to see how they can help.

Your West Warwick Criminal Defense Attorney

At Ellison Law LLC, our mission is to work relentlessly to defend clients facing criminal charges in West Warwick and the surrounding area. It is the core of our practice to bring integrity, honesty, and compassion to each case and treat every client with dignity and respect. Don’t face criminal charges alone. Reach out to Ellison Law LLC today to set up an initial consultation and discuss the details of your case.

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