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Criminal Defense Lawyers in Rhode Island

Lawyer Legion Criminal Defense Information Center of Rhode Island

Search Directory for Criminal Defense Lawyers in Rhode Island

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Criminal Defense Lawyers by County

Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Rhode Island

Lawyer Legion created this list of the top picks in 2024 for the best criminal defense attorneys in Rhode Island. To rank the top criminal defense attorneys and other lawyers in Rhode Island, we used both objective and subjective criteria.

The top criminal defense attorneys were selected based on their career accomplishments, success in high-profile cases, professional involvement, community leadership, and board certifications.

This list represents some of the most highly accomplished criminal defense lawyers currently practicing in Rhode Island. When reviewing this list, please be aware of each of the following:

  • Lawyers cannot pay to be included in this list.
  • Only lawyers who are active on Lawyer Legion were selected.
  • No online directory can accurately determine a statewide list of attorneys who are actually “the best” at practicing criminal law (but our list comes close).
Michael J Zarrella
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Providence, RI
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Stefanie A. Murphy
Criminal Defense Lawyer
East Greenwich, RI
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Matthew T Marin
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Cranston, RI
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Thomas C. Thomasian
Criminal Defense Lawyer
Providence, RI
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Allison Abilheira
Criminal Defense and Federal Crimes Lawyer
Providence, RI
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Dawn M. Cook
Criminal Defense and Family Lawyer
Providence, RI
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Allison Abilheira
Criminal Defense and Family Lawyer
Warren, RI
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K. Hoopis Manosh
Criminal Defense and Drug Crimes Lawyer
East Greenwich, RI
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Noah Kilroy
Criminal Defense and Family Lawyer
Providence, RI
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Tiffinay Antoch Emery
Criminal Defense and Family Lawyer
Providence, RI
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More Noteworthy Rhode Island Attorneys

Rhode Island Legal Resources

Criminal Defense Bar Associations and Legal Organizations

Rhode Island Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (RIACDL) - The Rhode Island Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (RIACDL) unites private criminal defense attorneys with public defenders to promote progressive legislative changes and sponsor quality continuing education seminars. Many of the top criminal defense attorneys in Rhode Island belong to this respected non-profit organization. RIACDL is an affiliate organization of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL).

Specialty Certifications in Criminal Defense

Criminal Trial Law - The specialty area of Criminal Trial Law is offered by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) to lawyers. To earn NBTA board certification, the criminal defense attorney must show substantial involvement in at least 45 days of trial, must have served as lead counsel in jury cases through verdict; conducted direct examinations and cross-examinations, and conducted a specified number of voir dire, opening statements and closing arguments.
DUI Defense Law - The National College for DUI Defense, Inc. (NCDD) is an organization that grants specialty or board certification for DUI Defense Law. The ABA has recognized the NCDD as an organization that is accredited to award certification in this specialty area of the law. The purpose of granting board certification in DUI Defense Law is to recognize DUI and DWI lawyers who focus their practice on representing men and women accused of drunk and impaired driving offenses. In order to qualify for board certification in "DUI Defense Law," the attorney must meet specific qualifications and apply for board certification with NCDD.

Rhode Island Government and Court Resources

Rhode Island Attorney General's Office

Rhode Island Attorney General's Office - The Rhode Island Attorney General's Office, headed by the Attorney General appointed by the Governor, functions as the chief legal officer for the state. This office is responsible for providing legal counsel to state agencies and officials, representing Rhode Island in legal matters, and overseeing law enforcement. The Attorney General plays a crucial role in prosecuting and defending legal actions on behalf of the state, issuing legal opinions, and addressing a diverse range of legal issues, including consumer protection, public safety, and environmental concerns.

Rhode Island Judiciary

Rhode Island Judiciary - The Rhode Island Judiciary is entrusted with the essential responsibility of administering justice within the state. Its duties encompass interpreting and applying the law, adjudicating civil and criminal cases, safeguarding individual rights, ensuring due process, and overseeing family law matters like divorce and child custody. Rhode Island's judiciary also addresses specific legal issues relevant to the state, including maritime and coastal concerns.

Rhode Island Public Defender

Rhode Island Public Defender - The Rhode Island Public Defender is a lawyer firm defending indigent adults and juveniles. Supported by social workers, investigators, and interpreters, they represent clients from initial court appearances to trials and appeals. The mission is client-centered advocacy with a compassionate and fair approach. Established in 1941, the Public Defender was among the first full-service statewide offices in the US. RIPD attorneys solely work for RIPD, ensuring quality defense for indigent clients.

Rhode Island Supreme Court

Rhode Island Supreme Court - The Rhode Island Supreme Court functions as the highest appellate court in the state, responsible for interpreting and applying the law. Its primary duty involves reviewing appeals from lower courts to ensure the accurate interpretation and application of state laws and the constitution. The court hears various cases, including civil, criminal, and constitutional matters, establishing legal precedents that guide lower courts and legal practitioners throughout Rhode Island. Additionally, the Rhode Island Supreme Court oversees the regulation of attorneys, managing attorney admissions, setting ethical standards, and ensuring the professionalism and ethical conduct of lawyers statewide.

State of Rhode Island General Assembly

State of Rhode Island General Assembly - The State of Rhode Island General Assembly operates as a bicameral legislature, consisting of the Rhode Island Senate and the Rhode Island House of Representatives. The Senate has 38 members serving two-year terms, while the House comprises 75 members also serving two-year terms. The General Assembly is responsible for proposing, debating, and passing laws that govern the state. Its duties include formulating the state budget, levying taxes, and addressing various policy issues such as education, healthcare, and social services.

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