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Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-49, it is unlawful to discharge a firearm or projectile device in or across any public road, street, square, or lane. This is charged as a misdemeanor but still carries the possibility of jail.
These cases often arise from hunting, target shooting, or rural-property disputes. Attorney Leah J. Boisclair can review what happened and where.
Under § 11-47-49, firing across a public highway is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500, up to one year in prison, or both.
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.
The state generally must show that you discharged a firearm or projectile device in or across a public road, street, square, or lane. Where the discharge occurred and its direction relative to the roadway are often central.
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 police followed proper procedure. 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.
Under section 11-47-49 it is charged as a misdemeanor, with up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $500. Even so, a conviction creates a record, so it should be taken seriously.
The circumstances of the discharge, including whether it was accidental and where it occurred relative to a roadway, can matter. An attorney can review the facts.
Every case is different. Depending on the evidence, the legality of any search, and the facts, some charges may be challenged, reduced, or resolved another way. No outcome can be guaranteed; an attorney can review whether any options may apply.
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.
A firearm conviction can affect your firearm rights under state and federal law. The specific impact depends on the conviction; an attorney can explain how a particular charge may affect you.
Bring any paperwork you received, such as the police report or arrest summary, your court notice or summons, bail paperwork, and anything related to the firearm. These help an attorney understand your situation quickly.
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.