Charged with Resisting Arrest in Rhode Island?
Don’t face the legal system alone. Contact the experienced resisting arrest defense attorneys at Marin & Murphy Law Firm for a free consultation.
Call (401) 228-8271 Now!
Our firm has successfully represented clients in both legal and illegal arrest scenarios, helping many avoid jail time, felony convictions, and, in many cases, guiding them through the process to leave the criminal justice system without a permanent criminal record. The consequences of a resisting arrest conviction can be far-reaching, potentially affecting employment opportunities, professional licenses, and personal reputation, which is why our attorneys work tirelessly to safeguard our clients’ futures.
Why Choose Our Rhode Island Resisting Arrest Defense Attorneys:
At Marin & Murphy Law Firm, we are committed to providing aggressive and personalized legal representation for individuals facing resisting arrest charges in Rhode Island. These charges can be complex, as they often involve police testimony and subjective interpretations of actions. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys understand the nuances of resisting arrest cases and are prepared to build a strong defense tailored to your situation. When you choose us to represent you, you can trust that we will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of the charges, including reviewing body cam footage, police reports, and witness statements to find inconsistencies and favorable evidence for your defense.
- Scrutinize the legality of the arrest and police conduct, ensuring that your constitutional rights were not violated. If law enforcement overstepped its bounds, we will fight to have the charges dismissed or reduced.
- Challenge the prosecution’s evidence, including examining the subjective interpretation of “use of force” and fighting to suppress any unlawfully obtained evidence.
- Craft a strategic defense plan tailored to your specific case, exploring potential defenses such as lack of intent, misunderstanding, or improper police conduct.
- Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges when possible, while always preparing your case for trial to ensure your rights are fully protected in the courtroom.
- Provide clear and compassionate communication, ensuring that you stay informed about every aspect of your case and receive the support you need during this stressful time.
Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for your case—whether that means reducing charges, obtaining a dismissal, or achieving an acquittal at trial. We understand that resisting arrest charges can carry serious penalties, including fines, jail time, and a lasting criminal record, and we are dedicated to fighting for your rights with skill, dedication, and expertise.
Frequently Asked Resisting Arrest Questions:
What qualifies as resisting arrest in Rhode Island?
Resisting arrest is a criminal offense under Rhode Island General Law 12-7-10 and makes it illegal for someone to use force or a weapon in resisting arrest. While using a weapon is obvious, “use of force” can be subjective, ranging from pulling away or tensing up to actively resisting. Different police departments and officers interpret resistance differently, so having an attorney to scrutinize the facts is crucial.
What are examples of resisting arrest?
Obvious examples include pulling away from handcuffs and fleeing. More subtle examples include tensing up, shielding, or other minor actions that officers might consider resistance.
What is the resisting arrest criminal statute in Rhode Island?
The resisting arrest statute is outlined in Rhode Island General Law 12-7-10, detailing the elements and potential penalties for conviction.
What are the elements of a resisting arrest charge?
Under Rhode Island Law 12-7-10, if someone uses force or a weapon to resist arrest, they can be convicted. Unlike many crimes, resisting arrest is often established through police testimony, making an experienced attorney essential in these cases.
Can you resist arrest if the arrest is illegal?
Rhode Island law makes it illegal to resist both legal and illegal arrests. While an illegal arrest may not be a complete defense, it can be used strategically by skilled attorneys to defend their clients.
Can you beat a Rhode Island resisting arrest charge?
It depends on the specific facts of the case. Body cam footage, surveillance, and witness credibility are often crucial in these cases. Contacting an experienced attorney can help you devise the best strategy for your defense.
What are the penalties for a resisting arrest charge in Rhode Island?
Under Rhode Island Law 12-7-10, resisting arrest is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in prison, a $500 fine, or both.
How long do you go to jail for a R.I. resisting arrest charge?
A conviction can result in up to one year in prison.
What happens when you get charged with resisting arrest in RI?
Those charged with resisting arrest are often facing other charges as well. Prosecutors take crimes against police officers seriously, so having an attorney who can stand up to the prosecution is essential.
What does the criminal charging process look like for a resisting arrest charge?
After arrest and processing, the defendant is arraigned, and the case is assigned for a pretrial conference. If no resolution is reached, the case will proceed to trial.
What happens if I’m innocent of the charge I was being arrested for?
Resisting arrest is treated as a separate charge from the original offense. Even if the original charge is dismissed, the resisting arrest charge still stands. However, skilled attorneys can often use the dismissal to benefit the defense.
What are the possible defenses against resisting arrest charges in R.I.?
Defense strategies vary based on the facts of each case. In some cases, the defendant’s actions may not meet the threshold for resisting arrest. In others, witness testimony or video evidence may be used to dispute the charges.
How can we help you with a Rhode Island resisting arrest charge?
As soon as you hire our Criminal Defense Legal Team, we begin gathering evidence and preparing your defense to secure the best outcome for you. Call us today at 401-228-8271 for immediate assistance!
Protect Your Future with an Experienced Rhode Island Resisting Arrest Defense Attorney
Facing a resisting arrest charge in Rhode Island can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
At the Marin & Murphy Law Firm, we have the knowledge, experience, and dedication needed to fight these charges and protect your future. Whether you’re dealing with resisting arrest tied to a legal or illegal arrest, our team will leave no stone unturned in crafting the strongest possible defense for your case. We understand the high stakes involved and are committed to helping you avoid jail time, reduce penalties, and maintain a clean record whenever possible.
Contact us today at 401-228-8271 for a free consultation, and let our experienced defense attorneys guide you through this challenging process.
