What is the maximum sentence for domestic violence in Rhode Island?

Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-29-2; § 11-5-3 (Misdemeanor (first offense simple assault); Felony (aggravated or repeat)), Rhode Island domestic violence carries a maximum sentence of 1 year (misdemeanor); 10 years (felony) and a maximum fine of $1,000 (misdemeanor); $10,000 (felony).

Does Rhode Island have a mandatory minimum for domestic violence?

Yes. Rhode Island imposes a mandatory minimum of Batterer's intervention program required for domestic violence. This applies unless an exception or diversion program is available.

What factors enhance a domestic violence charge in Rhode Island?

In Rhode Island, domestic violence penalties can be enhanced by: With a dangerous weapon (felony); Strangulation (§ 11-5-2.3 — felony); In presence of a child; Violation of no-contact order.

Rhode Island Domestic Violence Law

Rhode Island Domestic Violence Defense

What you're facing under R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-29-2; § 11-5-3, how the penalties scale, and the questions your attorney needs to answer, specific to Rhode Island (RI) domestic violence law.

Offense Class

Misdemeanor (first offense simple assault); Felony (aggravated or repeat)

Maximum Penalty

1 year (misdemeanor); 10 years (felony)

Maximum Fine

$1,000 (misdemeanor); $10,000 (felony)

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Mandatory Minimum

Rhode Island imposes a mandatory minimum of Batterer's intervention program required for this charge. Charge reductions or alternative sentencing are questions worth raising before the plea is entered.

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Federal Firearms Prohibition (Lautenberg Amendment)

A conviction for misdemeanor domestic violence in Rhode Island carries a federalfirearms-possession ban under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9). This consequence is collateral to Rhode Island state penalties and applies regardless of the state sentence imposed.

Penalty Range in Rhode Island

StatuteR.I. Gen. Laws § 12-29-2; § 11-5-3 — Domestic Violence — Assault and Battery

Minimum Penalty

Maximum Penalty1 year (misdemeanor); 10 years (felony)

Maximum Fine$1,000 (misdemeanor); $10,000 (felony)

Charge Enhancements

These factors can elevate the charge or penalty in Rhode Island:

With a dangerous weapon (felony)
Strangulation (§ 11-5-2.3 — felony)
In presence of a child
Violation of no-contact order

Rhode Island-Specific Detail

Rhode Island Domestic Violence Prevention Act (§ 12-29) applies DV designation to underlying criminal charges. Domestic strangulation is a specific felony. Firearms prohibition upon conviction.

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Important: This page provides legal INFORMATION about Rhode Island domestic violence law as of the date of publication. Laws change frequently. This is not legal advice. The analysis draws on methods developed by defense attorneys, applied to public data. Your attorney remains the final authority on defense direction.