Federal court guide
U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island (Providence)
The U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island sits in the Federal Building and Courthouse at One Exchange Terrace in downtown Providence. Rhode Island is a single federal judicial district, so federal criminal and civil cases from anywhere in the state are heard here.
Address, phone, and hours
The Clerk’s Office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding federal holidays.
- Address: Federal Building and Courthouse, One Exchange Terrace, Providence, RI 02903
- Clerk’s Office: 401-752-7200
What the court hears
Federal district courts hear nearly all categories of federal civil and criminal cases. A federal criminal case begins when the United States charges someone with violating federal criminal law, usually through the U.S. Attorney’s Office working with a law enforcement agency.
What happens at a first appearance
After a federal arrest, you must be brought before a magistrate judge without unnecessary delay. On a felony, the judge explains the complaint, your right to a lawyer (appointed if you cannot afford one), any right to a preliminary hearing, and your right not to make a statement.
The judge then decides release or detention under 18 U.S.C. § 3142. If the government asks for detention, the hearing is generally held at the first appearance, unless either side asks for a short continuance.
A felony must generally be charged by grand jury indictment unless you waive it. At the arraignment, you receive the indictment and enter a plea.
Who prosecutes
Under 28 U.S.C. § 547, the U.S. Attorney prosecutes all offenses against the United States in the district. The grand jury reviews the evidence the U.S. Attorney presents.
Security, parking, and what to bring
Every visitor must show valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license. Bags go through an x-ray machine, and you may be asked to remove belts, watches, jewelry, and shoes.
Members of the public may not bring any electronic device into the courthouse. Devices are checked and stored at the security station in the lobby, with no exceptions. The court’s website offers a map with walking directions from the Convention Center parking garage.
How to look up your case
Federal dockets are on PACER, the federal judiciary’s public access system, which charges 10 cents per page. The court also posts its calendar online.
How we help
Dylan C. DiLibero appears in this court. We can appear at the initial appearance and detention hearing, review discovery, and handle motions, plea negotiations, trial, and sentencing. The court also runs a Deferred Sentencing Program for some defendants after a guilty plea, and we can tell you whether it may fit your case. The first conversation is free. Call 401-621-9700.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. All visitors must present valid photo identification issued by a government agency, such as a driver’s license, and go through security screening.
Not as a member of the public. The court prohibits the general public from bringing any electronic device into the courthouse, and devices are held at the security station in the lobby.
It depends. Under 18 U.S.C. § 3142, the judge generally orders release on your own recognizance, release on conditions, or detention. Detention requires a finding that no conditions will reasonably assure your appearance and the safety of the community.
Use PACER. You need a PACER account, and PACER charges 10 cents per page for docket access.
Next step
Facing a federal charge in Rhode Island?
Call 401-621-9700 or request a consultation. The first conversation is free.