COVID-19 4/16/2020 Update – Rhode Island Courts to Remain Closed Until May 17th

An Executive Order to continue closure through May17th of the RI State Judiciary for non-emergency matters. Jury trials and all Superior Court grand jury proceedings are to be postponed and continued after May 17th.

Judicial buildings such as the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal and Noel Judicial Complex in Kent County shall re-opened as of April 13 for emergency and essential matters.

Courts are urged to utilize videoconferencing If feasible. More information can be found at the Judiciary’s website  www.courts.ri.gov.

The following criminal emergency and essential Rhode Island Superior cases are being heard:

• Rule 5A Bail Petitions
• Presentments as violators
• Violation hearings with witnesses (10 days)
• Warrant cancellations

The RI District Court is still carrying out arraignments for emergency and essential matters which includes:

• Domestic Violence Offenses
• Capital Offenses
• Alcohol-related Driving Offenses
• Fugitive from Justice and other crimes involving public safety
• Charges Stemming from Violations of Quarantine or executive orders relating to state of emergency declared by the Governor and/or Department of Health

If you are unsure your criminal case will be postponed or and need advice or guidance you can call (401) 861-1155 RI Criminal Defense Lawyer S. Joshua Macktaz, Esq. which continues to be available 24hrs and providing a FREE legal consultation and remote representation during the RI Court’s closures.