Criminal Defense Attorney in Bristol, Rhode Island

Defending the Rights of People Charged in Bristol


If you have been arrested or charged with a crime or motor vehicle offense in Bristol, the days ahead can feel overwhelming. Attorney Leah J. Boisclair helps people in Bristol understand their charges, protect their rights, and prepare for what comes next.

Attorney Boisclair represents individuals facing criminal and motor vehicle charges throughout Rhode Island. A Rhode Island native and graduate of Roger Williams University School of Law (cum laude), she brings meticulous preparation and calm, focused courtroom advocacy to every case.

Bristol is a historic waterfront town on Mount Hope Bay, famous for the nation's oldest Fourth of July parade, its colonial Hope Street, and Roger Williams University. Parade crowds, nightlife, and harbor activity generate many of the town's charges.

Important local detail: Bristol County has no courthouse of its own. Criminal matters from Bristol are heard in the Sixth Division District Court in Providence, with felonies transferred to the Providence County Superior Court under Rhode Island law (R.I. Gen. Laws § 8-8-2). See the court details below.

Where Your Bristol Case Is Heard


Knowing which courthouse will handle your case — and where it is — is one less thing to worry about. Criminal and motor vehicle charges from Bristol are heard in the courts below.

District Court — Misdemeanors & Traffic

Sixth Division District Court
Garrahy Judicial Complex
One Dorrance Plaza, Providence, RI 02903
Phone: (401) 458-3480

Hears misdemeanors, arraignments, and motor vehicle matters arising in Bristol.

Superior Court — Felonies

Providence County Superior Court
Licht Judicial Complex
250 Benefit Street, Providence, RI 02903

Felony charges from Bristol are transferred here from the District Court under Rhode Island law.

Helpful local resources

  • Charges are commonly filed by the Bristol Police Department or the Rhode Island State Police.
  • Court dates, forms, and directions are available through the Rhode Island Judiciary.
  • Bring every document you received to your consultation — the police report, summons, and any bail or no-contact paperwork.

Court assignments depend on the specific charge and can change. Attorney Boisclair will confirm exactly where your case will be heard and where you must appear.

Criminal Defense Services in Bristol


Attorney Boisclair defends a broad range of charges. Explore the area that fits your situation.

Firearm Charges

Rhode Island has strict firearm laws, and a charge can carry serious penalties and firearm restrictions. Attorney Boisclair defends possession, carrying, and firearm-related allegations.

  • Carrying or possession without a license
  • Possession of a stolen firearm
  • Possession by a prohibited person
  • Carrying while under the influence
  • Ghost guns / altered ID marks
Firearm Charges Defense →

DUI & Traffic Charges

A DUI or serious traffic charge can put your license and record at risk. Attorney Boisclair defends impaired-driving and motor vehicle offenses across Bristol.

  • DUI / driving under the influence
  • Refusal to submit to a chemical test
  • Driving with a suspended license
  • Reckless driving & eluding police
  • Leaving the scene of an accident
DUI & Traffic Defense →

Assault & Battery Charges

Assault charges often arise from heated moments and disputed accounts. Attorney Boisclair examines the evidence, witnesses, and circumstances behind the allegation.

  • Simple assault
  • Felony assault
  • Assault with a dangerous weapon
  • Assault at a bar or public place
  • Self-defense claims
Assault & Battery Defense →

Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic charges move quickly and often involve no-contact orders that affect your home and family. Early, careful guidance matters.

  • Domestic assault
  • Violation of a no-contact order
  • Restraining order defense
  • Domestic disorderly conduct
  • Firearm restrictions in domestic cases
Domestic Violence Defense →

Drug Crimes

Drug charges range from simple possession to trafficking allegations. Search and seizure issues are often central to the defense.

  • Drug possession
  • Possession with intent to deliver
  • Drug trafficking
  • Charges after a traffic stop
  • Fentanyl / opioid charges
Drug Crimes Defense →

Theft & Property Charges

Theft and property charges carry lasting consequences for your record and reputation. Attorney Boisclair defends misdemeanor and felony property allegations.

  • Shoplifting
  • Larceny & felony larceny
  • Breaking and entering
  • Burglary
  • Vandalism
Theft & Property Defense →

White-Collar Crimes

Financial crime allegations often follow long investigations and complex records. Attorney Boisclair helps clients respond carefully.

  • Fraud
  • Embezzlement
  • Forgery
  • Identity theft
  • Credit card & check fraud
White-Collar Defense →

Sex Crime Charges

Sex crime allegations are among the most serious a person can face. Attorney Boisclair provides discreet, careful defense and protects your rights.

  • Sexual assault (1st, 2nd, 3rd degree)
  • Indecent or online solicitation
  • Internet sex crime allegations
  • Failure to register
  • Sex crime investigations
Sex Crime Defense →

Violent Crime Charges

Violent crime charges can carry significant prison exposure. Attorney Boisclair builds a thorough, evidence-focused defense.

  • Homicide / murder charges
  • Manslaughter
  • Robbery
  • Kidnapping
  • Arson
Violent Crime Defense →

Computer Crimes

Online and computer-related charges involve digital evidence that must be examined closely. Attorney Boisclair defends these technical cases.

  • Cyberstalking & cyberharassment
  • Unauthorized computer access
  • Online threats
  • Internet fraud
  • Digital privacy charges
Computer Crimes Defense →

Disorderly Conduct / Public Disturbance

Public-order charges often arise from misunderstandings, crowds, or alcohol. They can still leave a mark on your record without careful handling.

  • Disorderly conduct
  • Resisting arrest
  • Trespassing
  • Disturbing the peace
  • Bar fight / public fight charges
Public Disturbance Defense →

What to Do After Being Charged in Bristol


Helpful steps

  • Read every document you received and note all court dates.
  • Save your paperwork — police report, summons, bail documents, and any no-contact or restraining order paperwork.
  • Write down what you remember while it is fresh.
  • Contact a Rhode Island criminal defense attorney as early as possible.

What to avoid

  • Do not ignore paperwork, summonses, or court dates.
  • Do not discuss the facts of your case with police without legal counsel.
  • Do not contact anyone protected by a no-contact order.
  • Do not post about the incident on social media.

How Attorney Leah J. Boisclair Can Help


  • Reviewing your case and explaining the charges in plain English
  • Examining the evidence and the police report for problems
  • Guiding you through court appearances and what to expect
  • Preparing for negotiation and, when needed, trial
  • Protecting your constitutional rights at every stage
  • Helping you understand consequences for your record and future

Bristol Criminal Defense FAQ


Which court will hear my criminal case in Bristol?

Misdemeanor and motor vehicle matters arising in Bristol are generally heard in the Sixth Division District Court at the Garrahy Judicial Complex, One Dorrance Plaza, Providence, RI 02903. Felony cases are transferred to the Providence County Superior Court at the Licht Judicial Complex, 250 Benefit Street, Providence, RI 02903. Attorney Boisclair can confirm the correct court for your specific charge.

Why is my Bristol case heard in Providence and not in Bristol County?

Bristol County is the only Rhode Island county without its own courthouse. Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 8-8-2, cases from Bristol, Warren, and Barrington are assigned to the Sixth Division District Court in Providence, with felonies handled by the Providence County Superior Court. This does not change your rights.

I was arrested by the Bristol Police — what happens next?

You will typically be given a court date for arraignment, where the charges are read and a plea is entered. It is best to speak with a criminal defense attorney before that date so you understand the charge and your options.

Can a Bristol charge be reduced or dismissed?

Every case is different. Depending on the facts and evidence, some charges may be reduced, resolved through a diversion or filing, or challenged. No outcome can be guaranteed; an attorney can review whether any of these may apply.

What if I was charged in Bristol but live in another town?

Your case is generally heard where the alleged offense occurred, not where you live. If you were charged in Bristol, your matter will usually be heard in the Sixth Division District Court, even if you live elsewhere in Rhode Island.

Does Attorney Boisclair handle both misdemeanors and felonies?

Yes. Attorney Boisclair represents people in a wide range of matters, from misdemeanors and traffic offenses in the Sixth Division District Court to felony charges heard in the Providence County Superior Court.

Serving Bristol & Nearby Communities


Attorney Boisclair represents clients across Bristol County and throughout Rhode Island, including nearby:

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Charged in Bristol? Protect Your Rights.

Speak with Attorney Leah J. Boisclair about your situation. 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 and court assignments can change, and the outcome of any case depends on the specific facts and circumstances. If you are facing a criminal charge, speak with a qualified Rhode Island criminal defense attorney about your situation.