If you’re required to go to a Washington County RI Court, it can help to learn more about your local courthouse and the services it provides before you go. Knowing where to go and what to expect can help make your visit to the Washington County Court easier. This page offers some key facts and information about the Washington County RI Court.
Family Court in Washington County RI
As you might expect, the Washington County Family Court deals with legal issues that specifically involve the family unit. Divorce, child custody, and child support are all areas handled by the Family Court. The Washington County Family Court is also there to help families and children that may be dealing with abuse, neglect, or a lack of resources, such as food or medical care.
There are many different services offered by the Family Court. A family lawyer can help you learn more about your needs and guide you through any legal challenge that involves your family. Regardless if you’re facing a divorce, issues with child support, or dealing with the consequences of a restraining order, Susan T. Perkins can help. Family law attorney Susan T. Perkins has focused most of her legal career around assisting couples, children, and families through their legal struggles. Contact her law firm today to hear more about how she can help.
What to Expect at Washington County Fourth Division District Court
After being charged with a felony or misdemeanor, you’ll most likely have to attend an arraignment hearing at the Fourth Division Washington County District Court. The District Court serves many purposes, but one of its key roles is holding arraignment hearings for those charged with a criminal offense. You might also go to the Washington County District Court for other needs, such as a probation hearing or a probation violation hearing. The District Court also handles bail hearings, no-contact orders, and expungement hearings. There are no jury trials held at the Washington County District Court.
If you’ve been arrested and charged with a crime, if you’ve recently been placed on probation, or if you’re interested in having a previous conviction expunged, it’s highly recommended to work with a Washington County criminal defense lawyer. Susan T. Perkins has extensive experience supporting those dealing with criminal offenses and the aftermath of an arrest. Contact criminal attorney Susan T. Perkins today to learn more.
What to Expect at Washington County Superior Court
The Washington County Superior Court handles jury trials and non-jury trials for the most significant criminal offenses, such as high-level white-collar crimes, kidnapping, burglary, and homicide cases. It also handles jury and non-jury trials for civil cases. If you’ve been charged with a felony, there’s a strong chance you’ll be required to go to the Washington County Superior Court.
It is always advised to seek the assistance of a skilled Washington County criminal defense attorney if you’ve been charged with a felony. Because felonies are the most serious criminal charges, it’s never recommended to handle your felony case alone or with a public defender, who may not have the time or resources to properly defend you. Hiring a criminal lawyer can significantly change your outcome and lead to lesser penalties, and in some cases, your charges may even be dropped. For the best defense, contact Washington County criminal defense attorney Susan T. Perkins.
Washington County Court Resources
Washington County is where you’ll find one of our state’s top public universities, the University of Rhode Island. Washington County is also well known for having a rich history and culture. Here are some Washington County Court key resources:
Washington County Address and Phone Numbers
Address: McGrath Judicial Complex 4800 Tower Hill Road Wakefield, Rhode Island 02879
Fourth Division District Court – Clerk’s Office
Telephone (401) 782-4131 782-4133
Fax (401) 782-4109
Washington County Family Court – Clerk’s Office
Telephone (401) 782-4111
Fax (401) 789-7204
Washington County Superior Court – Clerk’s Office
Telephone (401) 782-4121 or (401) 782-4139 (TTY)
Fax (401) 782-4190
Directions to Washington County Court
From points North of Wakefield
Take Interstate 95 to Route 4 South (Exit 9). Route 4 South will merge with Route 1 South. Take the exit marked “Stedman Government Center. McGrath Judicial Complex.” Follow the road to the left side of the complex.
From Westerly and South Coastal Rhode Island
Take Route 1 North to the exit marked “Stedman Government Center. McGrath Judicial Complex.” Follow the road to the left side of the complex.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the divorce laws in Washington County Rhode Island?
Divorce can be a complicated process and understanding Rhode Island divorce laws can help. An experienced divorce attorney can provide you with all of the important legal terms and documents you need for your divorce. In the meantime, there are a few key aspects of Rhode Island divorce law to help you begin. Rhode Island is a “no-fault” divorce state. This means that you don’t necessarily have to point a finger and blame one spouse or the other for the grounds of the divorce. However, in some contested divorces, identifying fault for things like adultery or extreme cruelty may be used in a divorce trial. You may also want to consider mediation services in your divorce. A mediator is a neutral third party that acts as a legal guide to help couples negotiate on the terms of their divorce. This is just a snapshot of Rhode Island divorce law. For more information, contact divorce attorney Susan T. Perkins.
Where do you get divorce papers in Washington County RI?
You can obtain documents needed for a divorce at the Washington County Family Court, or you can download and print them from this website. Be sure to look under the Family Court section to find the divorce forms you need for filing. We understand that divorce can be difficult for couples and families. Remember that you don’t have to go through this alone. Divorce attorney Susan T. Perkins can help guide you through the divorce process and explain all of the necessary documentation that you’ll need for filing purposes.
What can I expect after an arrest in Washington County RI?
After you’ve been arrested for a misdemeanor or a felony, you’ll have to attend an arraignment hearing at the Washington County Fourth Division District Court. It’s not advised to attend your arraignment hearing without speaking to a criminal defense attorney first. Your lawyer can provide legal support, explain what you should expect at your arraignment hearing, and create a powerful defense strategy to help you feel confident moving forward. Contact criminal defense lawyer Susan T. Perkins today to discuss your case.
Can I have criminal charges expunged?
It is possible to have criminal charges expunged. If you’re struggling to secure a job, housing, or apply for a loan, but you can’t because of your criminal record, expungement can help. However, Rhode Island has strict requirements for expungement. An expungement lawyer will be able to determine if you qualify to have your criminal charges expunged. Contact Susan T. Perkins to learn more about the expungement process.
How much does a Washington County criminal defense lawyer cost?
The cost of a criminal defense attorney will vary according to the circumstances surrounding each case. Many offenders who have received substantial legal services and avoided jail time will tell you that hiring a Washington County criminal defense lawyer is well worth the cost. When there’s a lot on the line, it’s important to have the best defense. Call the law firm of Susan T. Perkins today to learn more about how much her services cost and how she can help.
DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter. Also, the Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers in the general practice of law, but does not license or certify any lawyer as an expert or specialist in any field of practice.