Legal Blog Rhode Island | Law Office of John R. Grasso

Gay Marriage Approved by Senate in Rhode Island – How Will This Affect Family Laws?

The Providence Journal has reported that a gay marriage bill has been approved by the senate 26-12. The next step is for the House Judiciary Committee to approve the bill in late April or early May, according to the report. Once cleared, Rhode Island would be one of 10 states that legalizes the unio

What Are the Consequences of Making Terrorist Threats in Rhode Island?

In light of attacks at the Boston Marathon in April 2013, RI residents may wonder what the repercussions of terrorist attacks and threats are. Perhaps you’re reading this article and have been accused of these crimes. If this is the case, here’s a brief overview of the penalties, defenses, and w

Automobile Vandalization Charge – CASE DISMISSED

"Client charged with vandalizing automobiles at a local car dealership. Case dismissed during trial." RESULT — Case Dismissed

The State of Crime in Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Police Department releases annual statistics, trends and graphs on crimes in the area. As such, readers may wonder what the most popular crimes are, if the database is published nationally, as well as how to defend these commonly committed crimes. The latest Statewide Summary is

Semi-Automatics May be Banned in Rhode Island

In light of the Newton shooting last fall where several children were gunned down, the debate on the right to bear arms is heated like never before. The Providence Journal has reported that Governor Chapee has disclosed a number of bills that would put the following into action: Semiautomatic as

Marijuana Scents and Probable Cause

A recent internet forum posted by a marijuana possession defendant highlighted some of the key issues being faced by others on trial for this crime in Rhode Island. The question: “My husband opened the door when they knocked (they didn’t announce that they were the police or he wouldn’

Fighting a District Court’s Denial to Seal or Expunge Criminal Records

State vs. Doris E. Poulin Primer In 1996, Doris E. Poulin was charged with possession of a controlled substance. She pleaded nolo contendere and was sentenced to 2 years of probation, community service, and substance abuse counseling. She successfully completed all the terms of her probation

Fraud in Rhode Island

Several Rhode Island Residents were charged with mortgage fraud recently, as reported by the Providence Journal. The defendants provided false information in order to secure mortgages. This case is regarded as an organized crime, given that more than one person conspired to the crime, which resul

False Reporting of a Crime in Rhode Island

A Rhode Islander made news recently when after self-inflicting a stab wound, he made a false report to the police regarding how the injury came to be. David Pastore reported that he was stabbed by an anonymous person close to a Family Dollar store. Pastore later admitted to the false statement, requ

New Bill Aims to Ban Using Cell Phones While Driving

Lawmakers are scratching their heads regarding ideas for stricter penalties for texting while driving – because as it stands current laws are weak. The new bill proposed by Representative Charlene Lima, would implement a banning device in motor vehicles for second-time offenders. This special devi

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Gay Marriage Approved by Senate in Rhode Island – How Will This Affect Family Laws?

What Are the Consequences of Making Terrorist Threats in Rhode Island?

Automobile Vandalization Charge – CASE DISMISSED

The State of Crime in Rhode Island

Semi-Automatics May be Banned in Rhode Island

Marijuana Scents and Probable Cause

Fighting a District Court’s Denial to Seal or Expunge Criminal Records

Fraud in Rhode Island

False Reporting of a Crime in Rhode Island

New Bill Aims to Ban Using Cell Phones While Driving

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