Business Details
29 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Newport Criminal Defense Attorney
With over 30 years of experience in criminal defense and DUI law, our firm provides aggressive, personalized legal representation to clients in Newport, Rhode Island. As a former Rhode Island Special Assistant Attorney General, I bring unique prosecutorial insights to every case, leveraging deep knowledge of Rhode Island courts and legal procedures. We prioritize client education, offering free consultations and daily court appearances to ensure informed decision-making.Our track record includes reducing charges, securing dismissals, and expunging records, with a focus on minimizing the long-term impacts of criminal allegations. Backed by 500+ five-star reviews, we combine legal expertise with compassionate advocacy to protect clients' futures.
Services
DUI Defense
Criminal Defense
Expungement
Breathalyzer Refusal
Boating Under the Influence
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- 30 years of experience in Rhode Island criminal defense
- Former Rhode Island Special Assistant Attorney General
- 500+ five-star Google reviews from satisfied clients
- Free consultations and 24/7 emergency availability
- Proven success in charge reductions and expungements
What people say
5.0 Google rating
Excellent attorney
Best lawyer
Professional and responsive
Successful outcomes
Services
DUI Defense
Specialized legal representation for DUI charges in Rhode Island. Our firm leverages prosecutorial experience to challenge evidence, negotiate reduced penalties, and protect driving privileges. We handle breathalyzer refusal cases, field sobriety test disputes, and license suspension hearings. Clients receive personalized case strategy development and court navigation support.
Criminal Defense
Comprehensive defense for felony and misdemeanor charges. We represent clients facing assault, drug crimes, domestic violence, and other criminal allegations. Our approach includes evidence review, witness interviews, and trial preparation to secure dismissals or reduced charges. The firm emphasizes minimizing long-term consequences like employment impacts.
Expungement
Legal process to erase criminal records for eligible offenses. We guide clients through Rhode Island's expungement requirements, including filing motions and coordinating with law enforcement agencies. Our service covers eligibility assessments, documentation preparation, and court representation to achieve complete record clearance.
Breathalyzer Refusal
Defense strategies for breathalyzer refusal cases under Rhode Island law. We challenge administrative penalties, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent clients in license reinstatement hearings. The firm educates clients about legal implications and develops defense tactics based on procedural errors or equipment malfunctions.
Boating DUI
Specialized defense for boating under the influence charges. We address unique aspects of maritime law enforcement, challenge chemical test results, and mitigate penalties affecting boating privileges. The practice provides guidance on Rhode Island's specific boating DUI statutes and court procedures.
People
S. Joshua Macktaz, Esq
Attorney
Former Rhode Island Special Assistant Attorney General with 30+ years of legal experience. Specializes in DUI defense, criminal law, and expungement services. Graduated cum laude from Suffolk University Law School and trained police cadets in DUI investigations. Maintains active membership in the Rhode Island and American Bar Associations.
Questions
What happens during a free DUI consultation?
We review your case details, explain Rhode Island DUI laws, outline possible outcomes, and discuss defense strategies tailored to your situation.
Can first-offense DUI charges be dismissed?
Yes, through evidence challenges, procedural errors, or negotiated plea deals. Our track record shows successful dismissals in Newport County courts.
How long does expungement take in Rhode Island?
Typical processing takes 4-6 weeks after filing, including mandatory 10-day notice periods and agency coordination.
Do you handle out-of-state driver's license issues?
Yes, we address license suspension impacts for non-Rhode Island residents and coordinate with home state DMVs.
What's the difference between DUI and DWI in RI?
Rhode Island uses 'DUI' (Driving Under the Influence) with BAC limits of .08% for adults and .02% for commercial drivers.
