Rhode Island Resisting Arrest Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been charged with resisting arrest in RI, you should contact an experienced Rhode Island Resisting Arrest Defense Lawyer.  They will fight for your rights and help save you from harsh penalties.

What does it mean to “resist arrest”?

In Rhode Island, it is unlawful for any person to use force or any weapon in resisting a legal or an illegal arrest by a peace officer, if the person has reasonable ground to believe that he or she is being arrested and that the arrest is being made by a peace officer.

Who is a “peace officer”?

Under Rhode Island law, a peace officer is classified as:

  • A member of the Rhode Island state police
  • An associate of the local or municipal police department
  • Rhode Island airport corporation police; park police, capitol police, conservation officers and fire marshals
  • A recognized college campus security personnel
  • An officer who works in the sheriff’s department
  • The attorney general
  • A recognized investigator or correctional officer
  • A warden or sergeant

What are the penalties for resisting arrest in RI?

Resisting arrest is a misdemeanor in Rhode Island and as such, any person found guilty of violating § 12-7-10 shall face:

  • A fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500)
  • Imprisonment for not more than one year

If a person is found guilty of resisting arrest in Rhode Island, a criminal conviction will appear on their criminal record.

It is important to contact an experienced Rhode Island Resisting Arrest Defense Lawyer, who can defend your rights in court.

What defenses are available to those charged with resisting arrest in RI?

One defense commonly used by the Rhode Island Resisting Arrest Defense Lawyers at Abilheira Law, is arguing that the person who allegedly resisted arrest did not actually use force or a weapon.

Another common defense used by the Rhode Island Resisting Arrest Defense Lawyers at Abilheira Law, is excessive force.  In Rhode Island, an arrestee is allowed to defend himself if they believe that a peace officer is using excessive force. Excessive force is defined as any force beyond what is necessary to arrest a suspect and keep police and innocent bystanders safe.

What other crimes are commonly charged with Resisting Arrest?

An individual charged with resisting arrest can also be charged with:

If you or a loved one has been charged with resisting arrest in RI, call the Rhode Island Resisting Arrest Defense Lawyers at Abilheira today, for a free consultation 401-245-5100.