Criminal Defense
Explore state and federal criminal defense and hearing guides.
Rhode Island criminal defense
Rhode Island Domestic Violence Defense
A domestic violence charge can affect your liberty, home, and contact with people close to you. Start with the charge, release conditions, and next court date.
Release and No-Contact Orders
Rhode Island law requires a person charged with or arrested for a domestic violence crime to appear before a court or bail commissioner before release prior to arraignment. The official authorizing that release issues a no-contact order. At arraignment or a bail hearing, the court or commissioner determines whether an order should issue or continue.
Read the actual order and follow it. The other person’s invitation or consent does not change a court order. Ask counsel about permitted arrangements for your home, property, or children rather than arranging contact on your own.
Who Decides Whether the Case Continues?
The prosecutor determines whether the domestic violence action is prosecuted, rather than the alleged victim. A request to drop the case does not itself end the charge or a no-contact order.
Tell your lawyer about divorce, custody, civil protective orders, or other pending cases. Criminal and civil proceedings can involve different orders and issues; your attorney needs the complete picture.
What We Review
The defense begins with the specific charge and evidence, including the accounts of those involved, messages, photographs, recordings, and relevant prior orders. We assess the allegations, release conditions, and available defense options without promising a dismissal or particular result.
Documents to Prepare
Preserve originals. Discuss witness contact with counsel and keep complying with existing court orders. This guide is general information; advice depends on your case.
- Complaint or summons, case number, and next hearing date.
- Bail papers, no-contact orders, and any civil or family court orders.
- Original messages, photographs, recordings, and possible witness names.
- Information about housing or property arrangements that require attention.
Speak with Counsel Before the Next Hearing
For the initial call, provide your name, the court, charge, and next hearing date. We check for conflicts before discussing the details of your matter.
Discuss your charge and court order
Dylan C. DiLibero, Esq.
Attorney handling criminal defense; view his background and admissions.
Next step
Speak with Counsel Before the Next Hearing
For the initial call, provide your name, the court, charge, and next hearing date. We check for conflicts before discussing the details of your matter.