Arrested or given a court date
Have the charge, court, hearing date, and release papers ready. Tell us promptly if you are in custody or a hearing is approaching.
Criminal defense · State & federal
Criminal Defense Attorneys in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Connecticut
DiLibero & Associates is a Providence law firm handling criminal defense in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Connecticut. Our work includes DUI/OUI, drug and firearms charges, assault, domestic violence, theft, fraud, and white-collar cases.&DiLibero & Associates is a Providence law firm handling criminal defense in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Connecticut. Our work includes DUI/OUI, drug and firearms charges, assault, domestic violence, theft, fraud, and white-collar cases.
Where Are You in the Criminal Process?
Received a summons or hearing notice
Keep the notice and envelope. A Massachusetts clerk-magistrate hearing can occur before a criminal complaint issues.
Under investigation
Preserve letters, subpoenas, and messages from investigators. Discuss any request for an interview or documents with an attorney.
Accused of a probation violation
Gather the original sentence, probation conditions, and violation notice. A violation hearing has its own issues and preparation.
Facing a domestic violence charge
Keep every release condition and no-contact order. Court orders may affect your home, communication, and other proceedings.
Helping a family member
For the initial call, provide their name, the court or place of custody, and the next date you know. We begin with a conflict check.
For a theft, larceny or stolen-vehicle allegation, gather the charging papers and any purchase, transfer or ownership records for your consultation.
What’s at Stake
If you are facing a criminal charge, we can review the allegations, explain the court process, and discuss the available defense options with you.
We handle serious and complex criminal cases. State misdemeanor and felony accusations, drug and firearms charges, assault, domestic violence, theft, fraud, DUI/OUI, federal drug trafficking, and white-collar prosecutions—each requires a defense built on the actual law and evidence. We take these cases because our clients deserve a steady, committed defense.
Focused Defense Guides
- State Drug Charge Defense in Rhode Island and Massachusetts
Review the state-charge guide for search and seizure issues, the records counsel may need, and the distinction between state and federal cases.
- Firearm and Weapons Charge Defense in Rhode Island and Massachusetts
Review the weapons-charge guide for license and firearm records, charge-specific issues, and preparation for an initial case review.
Preparing papers for a particular allegation? Use the drug-case stop and search timeline, firearm charge and license-record checklist, or domestic violence court-document preparation. Each guide keeps the charging papers and practical consultation questions together.
Criminal Defense
Areas Within Criminal Defense
State
Felony and Misdemeanor Defense
Defense for state charges at every level, from first appearances through trial.
State Drug Charges
Possession, distribution, intent, and trafficking allegations in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Connecticut.
Firearms and Weapons Charges
Licensing, possession, carrying, and related allegations under state and federal law.
Other Criminal Charges
Assault, domestic violence, theft, fraud, property offenses, and probation matters.
DUI / OUI Defense
A drunk-driving charge is not a foregone conclusion.
Federal
Federal Drug Charges
Federal prosecutors have more resources, federal sentences are often longer, and mandatory minimums can limit what a judge is allowed to do. The defense has to match the weight of the case.
White-Collar Crime Defense
White-collar crime investigations begin long before an arrest. By the time you hear about it, the government may already have a head start.
Asset Forfeiture
Civil forfeiture can proceed without a criminal conviction; criminal forfeiture follows different rules.
Appeals & Post-Conviction
A conviction is not necessarily the end. If your case was handled in a way that was legally, procedurally, or constitutionally wrong, there may be paths forward. Appeal deadlines are short, so act quickly.
Federal Court Representation in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New Jersey
Criminal Defense
Rhode Island and Massachusetts Criminal Charges
Felony and Misdemeanor Defense
We represent people accused of misdemeanors and felonies in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The charge and possible penalties depend on the specific statute and facts; a misdemeanor is not necessarily minor. We review the charging papers, bail or release conditions, discovery, and the effect a case may have on work, licensing, immigration status, and a record.
Rhode Island and Massachusetts Drug Defense
State drug cases can involve alleged possession, possession with intent to distribute, delivery, manufacture, or trafficking. Rhode Island’s Controlled Substances Act and Massachusetts General Laws chapter 94C treat these acts differently, with penalties affected by the substance, quantity, prior record, and other facts. Cannabis has separate rules and exceptions; lawful possession does not authorize every sale or distribution. We examine the stop and search, ownership or control, laboratory testing, weight, and the evidence of intent.
Firearms and Weapons Defense
Firearms charges may turn on a license or exemption, the type and location of the weapon, the person’s legal status, and proof of knowing possession. Rhode Island General Laws chapter 11-47 and Massachusetts General Laws chapter 269, section 10, impose different requirements; some cases also involve federal firearms law. We review the stop, search, records, and every element the prosecution must prove.
Assault, Domestic Violence, Theft, and Related Charges
We also review assault and battery, domestic violence and protection-order allegations; larceny, shoplifting, robbery, burglary and fraud; serious violent or sexual-offense allegations; and alleged probation violations. Release conditions and parallel family or civil proceedings may require prompt attention. We evaluate identification, intent, witness reliability, digital records, and the elements of the actual charge without assuming an outcome.
Theft, Larceny and Stolen-Property Allegations
A theft-related case may be described on your papers as larceny, shoplifting, receiving stolen property or possession of a stolen vehicle. For a consultation, identify the precise charge, court and next date. Collect purchase or transfer records, receipts, title or registration papers, relevant messages and the names of people who can explain the transaction. Explain any dispute about who owned the property or had permission to use it. We review the available records before recommending a defense strategy.
Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Federal Cases
Rhode Island
District Court handles initial appearances in misdemeanor and felony cases. A bail commissioner may address release when court is closed; a later District Court appearance is still required. Felony cases may proceed to Superior Court.
Massachusetts
Some cases begin with a clerk-magistrate hearing before a complaint issues. At arraignment, release conditions and a possible dangerousness hearing require attention. The charge and court determine the next stages.
Federal court
An initial appearance may address counsel and release or detention before arraignment. Discovery, motions, plea decisions, and trial preparation follow the federal court’s schedule.
What to prepare
Bring the charge or summons, case number, next court date, release orders, and any notices from investigators. Preserve original messages and documents; discuss sensitive details after the conflict check.
What Happens After an Arraignment?
The first appearance is one stage of a criminal case. After it, preparation focuses on the actual charges, the evidence, release conditions, and the decisions ahead. Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and federal courts use different rules and schedules.
Review the release order and next date
Keep the written order, the next hearing notice, and any reporting instructions together. Tell counsel promptly about a work, housing, travel, or treatment issue affected by an order. If a condition needs to change, ask counsel about the court process before acting. Our Rhode Island domestic violence guide and Massachusetts dangerousness-hearing guide explain related release issues.
Obtain and examine discovery
Discovery can include statements, reports, recordings, testing, and other case evidence. Rhode Island Superior Court Rule 16 provides for specified disclosures upon a written defense request. Massachusetts Rule 14 requires automatic prosecution disclosures and a continuing duty to disclose additional material. What is available, when it is due, and any protective restrictions depend on the court and rule. A police report is a starting point for review, not a substitute for examining the evidence.
Evaluate motions and defense investigation
A supported motion may challenge a search, a statement, identification evidence, or another legal issue before trial. Counsel also examines what the prosecution must prove and whether additional records, witnesses, or expert work are needed. Suppression of evidence and dismissal of a charge are different rulings; the effect depends on the remaining evidence and the court’s decision. See our state drug-charge guide and firearms and weapons guide for charge-specific issues.
Consider a plea offer and prepare for trial
A plea decision requires review of the evidence, possible penalties, release or probation terms, and consequences for a record, licensing, employment, or immigration status. The available options depend on the charge and court. A Massachusetts continuance without a finding has its own requirements and consequences. If the case proceeds to trial, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Preserving Information for a Criminal Defense Review
Write a private chronology for discussion with counsel: dates, places, who was present, and where relevant records may be found. Preserve original messages, photographs, receipts, and notices rather than editing or deleting them. Identify a business or camera that may have recorded an event so counsel can assess preservation promptly. Avoid posting allegations or case evidence publicly.
If an investigator requests an interview or documents, keep the request and discuss it with counsel. A voluntary request, a subpoena, and a search warrant raise different issues. Tell us the issuing agency or court, the date received, and any listed deadline; a subpoena or court order should not be ignored. For an investigation involving business records or a parallel civil claim, see white-collar investigations and defense. For seized money or property, see asset forfeiture representation.
Our Approach
Your leverage in any negotiation depends entirely on whether the other side believes you’ll fight. We prepare every case as though it’s going to trial.
The most important decisions in a criminal case are often made before an arrest. When you learn you’re under investigation, call us. Don’t wait until after you’ve spoken to investigators or after a grand jury subpoena has gone unanswered.
The government’s case may look solid, but it’s our job to test every part of it. We analyze search warrants, wiretap authorizations, cooperating witness credibility, lab results, and chain of custody for weaknesses.
We are admitted in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Connecticut state courts, the U.S. District Courts for Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New Jersey, and the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the First, Second, and Third Circuits. When a case moves between these courts, you don’t need a new lawyer.
We tell our clients where they stand, what the options are, and what we think the right call is. The first conversation is free and carries no obligation.
Guides for Your Charge or Next Hearing
Rhode Island domestic violence
Release, no-contact orders, and related court proceedings.
Rhode Island probation violations
New-charge and technical allegations; preparing for the hearing.
Massachusetts dangerousness hearings
Eligibility, release conditions, and pretrial detention under § 58A.
Massachusetts show cause hearings
The clerk-magistrate’s decision about issuing a complaint.
Massachusetts CWOF
An admission to sufficient facts, conditions, and later dismissal.
Massachusetts record sealing
How the case outcome and record affect the available route.
What Happens Next
From the first call to the work itself.
We Answer
When you contact us, you are not entering a queue.
What we do. Call 401-621-9700 or request a consultation online. We take your details and check for conflicts of interest before we discuss your matter.
What to prepare. Your contact details, the name of the person facing investigation or charges, the court or investigating agency, and any known hearing date.
We Listen
We will give you honest answers about where you stand and what your options are.
What we do. An attorney reviews what happened, the documents you have, and any deadlines that may apply, then talks you through your options.
What to prepare. Any paperwork you were given: the complaint or summons, bail or release conditions, and the date of your next court appearance.
We Fight
We prepare every case as though it’s going to trial.
What we do. If you decide to hire the firm, we confirm the engagement and get to work, and you know who is handling your matter.
What to prepare. Keep any new notices, letters, or court papers and send them to us as they arrive.
Every matter is different, so the steps and how long each one takes vary.
Who Handles This Work
Dylan C. DiLibero, Esq.
Attorney
Criminal defense, state and federal · Personal injury · Civil litigation
View profileConnecticut state bar; New Jersey state bar and U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.
Client Reviews from Google
Trustworthy, professional, and knowledgeable. DiLibero & Associates took the time to explain everything clearly and always made me feel informed throughout the process. Their honesty, responsiveness, and attention to detail gave me confidence every step of the way. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for legal representation they can trust.
Translated from the reviewer's original English on Google.
Tony LevadaOur go to! We have utilized DiLibero & Assoc for a few years now and highly recommend. They are easy to reach, operate in a timely manner, and in each instance- they guided us and handled our situations surpassing our expectations. So grateful to always know exactly where to turn! And to actually get resolution. On top of that being treated with dignity and respect- definitely minimizes the stress when going through difficult predicaments.
Translated from the reviewer's original English on Google.
Aimee ZwolinskiOne of the best experiences i’ve ever had legally was with this firm! Lisa and Dylan are extremely professional and determined to get you a desirable outcome! They kept me well informed throughout the entire process and were nothing but professional, understanding, and helpful. I will always recommend this firm due to its staff’s dedication to getting you results that matter!
Translated from the reviewer's original English on Google.
Elaina MI had a great experience working with Dylan. He helped guide me through a situation I was dealing with involving a car dealership, and from the start he was professional, knowledgeable, and very easy to work with. Dylan took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I understood my options every step of the way. Even though the situation didn’t require anything overly complicated, it was clear that Dylan really knows his stuff and genuinely cares about helping his clients. He was responsive, straightforward, and made the entire process much less stressful. I would absolutely recommend Dylan to anyone looking for a reliable and trustworthy attorney. Thanks again for your help!
Translated from the reviewer's original English on Google.
Stephensilva SilvaI couldn’t be more impressed with Delibero and Associates. From my very first consultation, they were attentive, professional, and genuinely cared about my case. Dylan took the time to explain every step of the process and kept me informed the entire way. Their expertise and attention to detail gave me complete confidence that I was in excellent hands. What stood out most was their compassion, they treated me like a person, not just a client. The entire team worked efficiently, communicated clearly, and delivered results that exceeded my expectations. If you’re looking for a law office that combines deep legal knowledge with true dedication to their clients, I highly recommend Delibero and Associates. They turned a stressful situation into a positive outcome.
Translated from the reviewer's original English on Google.
Michael MarzilliTestimonials reflect individual experiences. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Reviews describe individual clients’ experiences. Every matter is different.
Read all reviews on Google (opens Google Maps in a new tab)
Courts and Admissions
- Rhode Island Superior Court (Providence/Bristol, Kent, Washington, and Newport Counties)
- Rhode Island District Court (all divisions)
- Massachusetts Superior Court (Suffolk, Norfolk, Bristol, and Middlesex Counties)
- U.S. District Court, D.R.I.
- U.S. District Court, D. Mass.
- U.S. Courts of Appeals for the First, Second, and Third Circuits
Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Connecticut state courts • U.S. District Court, District of Rhode Island • U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts • U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey • U.S. Courts of Appeals for the First, Second, and Third Circuits
Frequently Asked Questions
Ask for an attorney and avoid discussing the allegations before receiving legal advice. Rhode Island law generally provides telephone access to secure counsel or arrange bail as soon as practicable, within one hour of detention; an immediate medical-treatment exception applies to certain alleged drunk-driving arrests. Massachusetts law requires notice of telephone rights promptly on arrival at the station or detention facility and use within one hour thereafter, at the arrested person’s expense, to contact family or friends, arrange bail, or engage counsel. The starting points differ. Tell your attorney what happened and when.
State criminal charges allege violations of Rhode Island or Massachusetts law and are handled in that state's courts. Federal criminal charges allege violations of federal law and are generally prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office in federal court. Different court systems use different procedures. Bring the complaint, indictment, summons, and hearing notices so we can identify the court and next step.
If you qualify for a public defender, that attorney is a trained lawyer who will work to represent you. Public defenders often carry heavy caseloads. If you can retain private counsel, particularly for a serious felony or federal charge, you choose who handles your case from day one.
You have a constitutional right to remain silent. Use it, and call an attorney first.
An arraignment is the court appearance where you are formally told the charges and enter a plea, usually not guilty. In Rhode Island and Massachusetts District Court, bail is usually addressed at the first appearance. In a Rhode Island felony case, the plea is entered later in Superior Court. In federal court, release or detention is decided at an initial appearance before a magistrate judge, often before the arraignment. We appear at these hearings and use them to start building the defense.
As quickly as possible. Evidence is time-sensitive, surveillance footage gets overwritten, witnesses’ memories fade, and pretrial deadlines in both state and federal court move fast. In federal court especially, the early stages of a case involve decisions that shape everything that follows. The sooner we’re involved, the more options are available.
