Call or Text For A Consultation
(401) 602-9367
Rhode Island law restricts certain weapons that are not firearms. Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-47-42, carrying or possessing items such as metal knuckles, blackjacks, and certain knives — or concealing a knife with a blade over three inches — can be a crime.
These charges often involve questions of intent and how an item was carried. Attorney Leah J. Boisclair can review the facts of your case.
Under § 11-47-42, it is generally unlawful to carry or possess weapons such as blackjacks, metal knuckles, and stun guns; to possess daggers, dirks, stilettos, or similar knives with unlawful intent; or to carry concealed any such weapon or a knife with a blade longer than three inches. A general violation can carry a fine of up to $1,000, up to one year in prison, or both, plus confiscation. Enhanced penalties (one to five years) can apply, such as when the offense is committed while incarcerated or involves unlawful sale to a minor.
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.
Depending on the item, the state may need to prove that you carried or possessed a prohibited weapon, that any required unlawful intent existed, or that a knife was carried concealed and exceeded the legal blade length. The details of how the item was carried often matter.
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.
It depends on the knife and how it is carried. Section 11-47-42 addresses carrying concealed a knife with a blade longer than three inches, among other items. Many everyday situations turn on the specific facts.
For some items the statute requires an unlawful purpose, while others are addressed by how they are carried. Whether intent is required depends on the specific item and subsection.
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.