Getting arrested is never a fun experience. From processing at the police station to managing court fees and dates, it’s an overwhelming experience.
And if you miss even one deadline or court appearance? Things just get harder. I know because I’ve got 30-plus years of successful experience as an aggressive Rhode Island criminal defense lawyer.
Sometimes, people don’t come to me for help until they’re already in deep. It’s only when the fees pile up and the judge threatens to hold you in contempt of court that you realize how tough this whole process is.
Luckily, in the state of Rhode Island, you have access to a “Public Portal” online. From here, you can find information like your charges, case numbers, upcoming court dates, court debts, payments, and bench warrants.
This knowledge can save you quite a bit of time, money, and stress down the road. That’s why I put together this step-by-step guide on how to look up your own case in Rhode Island.
The state of Rhode Island offers 3 different searches to look up your case online:
You’ll need slightly different information depending on which of the 3 you’re interested in.
To use Smart Search, you only need your case record number or your full name.
To use Search Hearings, you need one of the following:
To use Make Payments, you need one of the following:
Now that you have all the necessary information, let’s cover how to look up your own case online in Rhode Island.
You can find your case number in Rhode Island by logging onto the Public Portal and performing a Smart Search.
All you have to do is enter your name in the proper format as shown on the Smart Search screen. Once you perform the search and pull up your case record, you’ll see your case number.
Yes, you can look up court cases in Rhode Island online, by mail, or in person. Online is by far the fastest and easiest. All you need is your name and a few minutes to get all your info.
However, the portal is designed for use by the parties directly involved in cases and their attorneys. Using the portal to view/manage the case of someone who isn’t you is technically against the Terms of Use.
The most convenient way to find court records in RI is by searching via the Rhode Island Judiciary Public Portal.
But if you don’t want to use the, you can also visit 150 South Main Street in Providence, RI for the state’s Attorney General’s Office. You’ll need photo ID and a checkbook to pay the $5 fee.
You can also mail your request to this same address. For this route, include a signed, notarized release of information, a copy of your photo ID, a check payable to “BCI” for $5, and a stamped self-addressed envelope for the return of your records.
You can find additional information about Rhode Island courts on Rhode Island Judiciary website or by calling me at (401) 861-1155 for your free case consultation.
It was easy to learn how to look up your own case online in Rhode Island, right? The thing is, the easy part stops here. Navigating RI’s court system on your own is frustrating at best and nearly impossible at worst.
But I’ve successfully swam in these rivers for 30-plus years. Police officers, judges, and lawyers often refer their loved ones to me for legal representation because I’m so experienced. No matter what charges and penalties you’re facing, I can help.
Your freedom shouldn’t be at risk just because Rhode Island courts are so complicated. Whatever questions or concerns you might have about your case, I’m here for you 24/7. Just call me at (401) 861-1155 to get the expertise you deserve.