Rhode Island Felony Defense Attorneys

Almost 40 years of combined experience!

Kara Hoopis Manosh and Elizabeth Payette, Rhode Island criminal defense attorneys focused on serious state felony cases.

When the State calls you a criminal, everything shifts:  Your freedom, your family, your future. In moments like this, you need more than a lawyer. You need a defender who knows Rhode Island courts, understands how serious cases are built, and brings the judgment and strength required when everything is at stake.

We defend people accused of serious crimes in Rhode Island.
This is the work we do every day, and we take that responsibility seriously.

If you or someone you love is facing felony charges, you don't have to face this alone.
We are here. We are ready. And your fight is ours now.

CALL NOW (Jail calls accepted)

Why People Come to Us

High-stakes cases deserve serious attention.

100% of our practice is dedicated to criminal litigation.

People reach out to us when the consequences are life-altering:

• A loved one has been arrested or is being held without bail

• The case involves serious felony allegations

• The situation feels frightening or overwhelming

• Privacy and discretion matter

• Someone needs steady leadership and a path forward

Fear and uncertainty are real in this moment. We provide clarity, strength, and guidance.

You do not need to have answers right now. You simply need a legal team who will listen, orient you, and protect your interests at every step.

Who We Are

Experienced. Respected. Steady in the storm.

Our office is located in downtown Providence, a short walk from every courthouse.

We are Rhode Island trial attorneys who defend people facing the most serious accusations. We are trusted because we prepare at the level serious cases require. We listen closely, we advise honestly, and we stand with our clients every step of the way.

• Extensive experience in Rhode Island Superior Court

• Leadership within the state defense community

• A reputation for professionalism and preparedness

• Client-centered counsel grounded in dignity and respect

• Real courtroom skill when litigation becomes necessary

You deserve representation that takes your life and future seriously. We do.

Our Approach

Strategy. Strength. Judgment.

We are proud of our not guilty verdicts, but just as proud of our relationships with clients.

Serious criminal charges are not defended with noise or theatrics. Strong results come from preparation, discipline, and smart decisions.

We bring:

• Calm in the face of pressure

• A focus on your rights and your future

• Thorough review and strategic investigation

• Clear communication and honest guidance

• Readiness for litigation when justice demands it

We move with purpose, and we move with you.

Types of Cases We Handle

We represent clients charged with serious Rhode Island felonies, including:

• Homicide and fatal-incident cases

• Sexual offense allegations

• Firearm and weapons charges

• Drug distribution and trafficking

• Robbery and violent-felony accusations

• Burglary, home-invasion, and property crimes

• Domestic-violence felonies

• Probation violations and violation hearings

High-stakes criminal matters require skill, preparation, and resolve. This is the work we focus on.

We have almost four decades of presenting every type of legal defense available. 

What to Expect

Clarity from the beginning.

You will never feel alone in your defense.

At your first consultation, you will know three things:

1. What is happening

2. What the process looks like

3. What comes next and how we will handle it

We guide clients and families through each stage of the Rhode Island felony process, from arrest and bail hearings to litigation and courtroom appearances. You will always know the plan and the next step.

Support and Understanding

People rarely call us on a good day. They call when everything feels uncertain.

Shock. Fear. Confusion. Worry about family and reputation. A sense that life has changed in an instant.

We understand the weight of this moment. We carry it with you.

You do not have to be fearless. You simply have to reach out. We will take it from there.

Experience and Results

We measure our work by outcomes and by the lives we help protect.

• Not-guilty verdicts in serious felony jury trials

• Dismissals and charge reductions following strategic defense work

• Bail victories in difficult circumstances

• Successful defense in complex, sensitive cases

Reputation is earned case by case and courtroom by courtroom. We have earned ours by standing beside people when everything is on the line.

Take the First Step

When your future is at stake, the lawyer beside you matters. The strategy matters. The level of preparation matters.

You do not have to carry this alone. We are here. We are ready.

Your fight is ours now.

CALL NOW (Jail calls accepted)