In Rhode Island, domestic violence offenses are one of the most frequently charged criminal offenses. Jon Brien has represented hundreds of clients for various domestic violence charges ranging from misdemeanor violations to felony domestic violence charges carrying severe mandatory jail sentences.
WHAT OFFENSES ARE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CRIMES IN R.I.?
- Domestic Disorderly Conduct
- Domestic Simple Assault and Battery
- Domestic Vandalism
- Domestic Trespassing
- Domestic Cyberstalking
- Domestic Violation of a No Contact Order
- Domestic Kidnapping
- Domestic Stalking
- Domestic Strangulation
- Domestic Felony Assault
WHAT IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN RHODE ISLAND?
In Rhode Island, Domestic Violence is defined as “any of the [above-referenced] crimes when committed by one family or household member against another” Rhode Island General Laws § 12-29-2. The penalty provisions of the Rhode Island domestic violence statute provides for the mandatory issuance of a no-contact order upon arrest of a suspect, the issuance of a no-contact order for the period of jail and/or probationary sentence upon a no contest or guilty plea, and the requirement that individuals convicted of domestic violence offenses attend and successfully complete a domestic violence counseling program known as the "Batterers Intervention Program." Domestic violence crimes can be misdemeanor or felony charges, and carry longer requirements prior to being eligible for expungement.