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In Rhode Island, carrying a pistol or revolver — in a vehicle or on or about your person, whether concealed or visible — generally requires a state-issued license or permit. Being charged under R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-8 is serious: subsection (a) is a felony that can carry years in prison.
If you are facing this charge, understanding the law and your options early can make a real difference. Attorney Leah J. Boisclair reviews how the firearm was found, whether the stop or search was lawful, and whether the state can prove each element of the offense.
Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-8(a), no person may carry a pistol or revolver, whether visible or concealed, in any vehicle or conveyance or on or about their person without a license or permit issued under §§ 11-47-11, 11-47-12, and 11-47-18. In general terms, the key points are:
Section 11-47-8 also addresses several other firearm prohibitions, each with its own penalties:
Statutes and penalties can change, and federal law may also apply. An attorney can confirm the current statute and how it applies to your specific charge.
Every firearm case turns on its own facts. Attorney Leah J. Boisclair can review your charge and explain your options in plain English.
To obtain a conviction under § 11-47-8(a), the state generally must show, beyond a reasonable doubt, that you knowingly carried a pistol or revolver in a vehicle or on or about your person, and that you did not have the required Rhode Island license or permit. Whether a recognized exception applies — such as your home, place of business, or land you possess — can also be central. Possession can be “actual” or “constructive,” which often matters when more than one person had access to a vehicle.
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.
The penalties for a firearm conviction can be severe. The sooner you have an attorney, the more can often be done to protect your rights.
Firearm cases often turn on how the weapon was found and whether procedures were followed. Speaking with an attorney early can help protect your rights, preserve evidence and arguments (such as a motion to challenge a search), prepare you for court, and avoid missteps that can affect the outcome.
Yes. Under R.I. Gen. Laws section 11-47-8(a), carrying a pistol or revolver without the required license or permit is a felony that can carry one to ten years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. The facts of how the firearm was carried and found matter, and an attorney can review your specific case.
Rhode Island law contains only a narrow exception for out-of-state permit holders who are merely transporting a firearm through the state without intending to remain. It generally does not allow carrying on an out-of-state permit. Reciprocity questions are fact-specific, and an attorney can review your situation.
The statute's exceptions include carrying within your dwelling house, your place of business, or on land you possess. Whether an exception applies depends on the facts; an attorney can review where and how the firearm was carried.
For a second or subsequent conviction under this subsection, the law does not permit a suspended sentence, deferment, or probation. Penalties are serious, which is why early legal advice is important.
Possibly. The statute covers carrying in a vehicle as well as on your person, but the state must still prove you knowingly possessed the firearm. When more than one person had access to the vehicle, who possessed it can be a central issue.
Every case is different. Depending on whether the stop and search were lawful, whether possession can be proven, and whether an exception applies, there may be issues worth raising. No outcome can be guaranteed; an attorney can review your options.
You are generally not required to discuss the facts of your case with police without an attorney. It is usually wise to speak with a criminal defense attorney before answering questions.
Related firearm charge pages for more help:
Criminal defense by Rhode Island county:
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 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.