If you are charged with domestic vandalism, you need an experienced Rhode Island domestic violence attorney. You could face severe penalties if you are convicted. Your best chance of mounting a successful defense is working with a lawyer who aggressively defends their clients, including taking cases to trial when necessary.
Our Rhode Island domestic vandalism lawyers at Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys have over 36 years of combined experience. Our experienced trial attorneys are dedicated to helping you navigate the criminal court system as we aggressively defend you against your charges and protect your legal rights.
Contact our law offices in Providence, RI, to schedule a free consultation. We are available 24/7 at (401) 854-7794 to discuss your case.
How Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help if You Are Charged With Domestic Vandalism in Rhode Island
Our Rhode Island domestic violence lawyers at Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys will work to obtain a favorable outcome in your case from the start. Our legal team uses their considerable skills, resources, and experience to protect you from the harsh penalties for a criminal conviction. We develop a defense strategy that gives you the best chance of beating your charges.
When you hire our top-rated criminal defense attorneys in Rhode Island, you can expect us to:
- Discuss your case with you to learn what happened
- Analyze the state’s evidence against you to determine the strength of its case
- Investigate the circumstances surrounding your criminal charges to gather evidence to support your defense
- Explain your legal options and the potential consequences of going to trial versus accepting a plea deal
- Work toward having your charges of domestic vandalism dismissed
- Explore the defenses to domestic vandalism
- Aggressively negotiate acceptable terms of a plea deal if going to court is not in your best interest
- Represent you in court and defend you against your charges
Call our criminal defense law firm in Rhode Island today to schedule a free case review. Don’t trust that the court will find you innocent of the charges, even if you did nothing wrong. You still need a solid defense to protect your freedom and rights.
What Are Domestic Vandalism Charges in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island defines vandalism in R.I. General Laws §11-44-1. The crime involves maliciously, willfully, or mischievously destroying or injuring someone else’s property. The Rhode Island Domestic Violence Prevention Act states that committing vandalism against a member of your family or household is domestic violence.
Examples of domestic vandalism include:
- Keying a vehicle or damaging tires
- Painting or writing derogatory comments on a vehicle, house, or other property
- Breaking windows in a vehicle or house
- Destroying clothing, furniture, or other personal property
- Breaking into a home or vehicle
Any act of damaging, defacing, or destroying property belonging to a member of your family or household could result in domestic vandalism charges. Unfortunately, police officers and prosecutors use domestic vandalism charges even when they should not apply.
Potential Criminal Penalties for a Conviction of Domestic Vandalism in Providence, RI?
The penalties for a domestic vandalism conviction can be severe, even though the charge is a misdemeanor. A judge may sentence you to:
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Pay restitution to the victim
- Up to one year in jail
- Probation
- Up to 100 hours of community service
Additionally, when you are charged with vandalism as part of a domestic violence crime, you must attend a Batterers Intervention Program. The penalties increase if you have a criminal history of domestic vandalism charges. If there are aggravating factors, the penalties could increase for a first offense conviction.
What Should I Do if I Am Charged With Domestic Vandalism in Providence, Rhode Island?
The steps you take after being arrested for domestic vandalism can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Things you should keep in mind to protect your rights include:
- Do not resist arrest. You may believe you are innocent, but resisting arrest could result in additional charges.
- Do not answer questions or make a statement for the police without an attorney present. Talking to the police without legal representation is never a wise choice.
- Never try to contact the victim to “work it out” after you are released from jail. Contacting the victim could make it more difficult to defend your case. It could also result in other criminal charges.
- Do not discuss the charges with anyone else other than your attorney.
As soon as possible, contact a Providence domestic violence lawyer to discuss your case. Our Providence domestic vandalism attorneys will guide you through the next steps in your criminal case.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Rhode Island Criminal Defense Lawyers
You deserve the best criminal defense available when facing domestic vandalism charges. Call Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a free case review with an experienced Providence domestic vandalism attorney. You don’t have to face your domestic vandalism charges alone. We are here to help you get through this difficult situation.
