Rhode Island law
Domestic Violence Laws in Rhode Island.
Rhode Island provides civil Protection Orders under R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 15-15-1 et seq. (family/household members) and § 8-8.1 (adult dating relationship). Emergency ex parte orders issue immediately; final orders after hearing last up to 3 years, renewable. Rhode Island criminalizes domestic assault as a separate offense with enhanced penalties for repeat offenses. Federal firearm dispossession under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(8) applies.
Last verified: 2026-04-17
State law
Key Rhode Island Statutes
Authorizes ex parte emergency Protection Orders (immediate, effective up to 21 days) and Protection Orders (after hearing, up to 3 years, renewable). Protected: family or household members, persons in substantive dating relationship, persons with child in common.
Separate civil protection order available for adults in dating relationships without cohabitation.
Enhanced penalties for assault and other specified crimes when committed against a family or household member. Mandatory arrest for probable cause of domestic assault.
Rhode Island Office of Attorney General administers Crime Victim Compensation Program. Reimburses victims for medical, counseling, and economic losses.
State law
Official Sources
Not Legal Advice
This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.
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