Call or Text For A Consultation
(401) 602-9367
Felony assault is one of the most serious assault charges in Rhode Island and can carry years in prison. It applies when an assault or battery involves a dangerous weapon, a dangerous substance, or fire, or when it results in serious bodily injury.
Attorney Leah J. Boisclair builds a careful, evidence-focused defense in felony assault cases, examining the alleged weapon, the injuries, and the circumstances of the incident.
Under § 11-5-2, an assault or battery with a dangerous weapon, acid or other dangerous substance, or fire — or one that results in serious bodily injury — is a felony. If serious bodily injury results, the penalty can be up to twenty years. Other felony assaults can carry up to six years. “Serious bodily injury” has a specific legal definition involving a substantial risk of death, serious disfigurement, or protracted impairment.
Statutes and penalties can change. An attorney can confirm the current law and how it applies to your specific charge.
The state generally must prove an assault or battery plus an aggravating element — for example, the use of a dangerous weapon or that the injury meets the legal definition of serious bodily injury.
No outcome can be guaranteed. The right approach depends on the specific facts; an attorney can review how the law may apply to your situation.
Every case turns on its own facts. Attorney Leah J. Boisclair can review your charge and explain your options in plain English.
These cases often turn on details — how the evidence was gathered, what the state must prove, and whether procedures were followed. Speaking with an attorney early can help protect your rights, preserve challenges, prepare you for court, and avoid missteps that can affect the outcome.
Under § 11-5-2, an assault becomes a felony when it involves a dangerous weapon, acid, a dangerous substance, or fire, or when it results in serious bodily injury.
It depends on the facts. Felony assault with serious bodily injury can carry up to twenty years; other felony assaults can carry up to six years.
Rhode Island law defines it as injury that creates a substantial risk of death, causes serious permanent disfigurement, or causes protracted loss or impairment of a bodily function.
Every case is different. Depending on the evidence and the alleged injuries, there may be issues worth raising. No outcome can be guaranteed.
Related pages in this practice area:
Criminal defense by Rhode Island county:
Consultations are confidential, and early guidance can make a real difference.
This page is for general informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Rhode Island criminal laws can change, and the outcome of any case depends on the specific facts and circumstances. If you are facing a charge, speak with a qualified Rhode Island attorney about your situation.