---
title: "Can criminal charges be dismissed in Rhode Island?"
description: "Yes, Rhode Island criminal charges are dismissed more often than most defendants realize. The paths to dismissal depend on the stage and facts of your case: Pre-arraignment / pre-indictment:..."
url: https://bankandmunns.com/faq-items/can-criminal-charges-be-dismissed-in-rhode-island/
date: 2026-04-06
modified: 2026-04-29
author: "Bank and Munns"
type: avada_faq
lang: en
---

# Can criminal charges be dismissed in Rhode Island?

Yes, Rhode Island criminal charges are dismissed more often than most defendants realize. The paths to dismissal depend on the stage and facts of your case:

**Pre-arraignment / pre-indictment:**

- Negotiated non-filings with the prosecutor's office

- Weak probable cause leading to declined prosecution

- Grand jury returning "no true bill" on felony charges

**After charging, before trial:**

- Motion to suppress, unlawful stops, searches, or interrogations can gut the state's evidence

- Motion to dismiss for lack of probable cause

- Miranda violations leading to statement suppression

- Chain-of-custody breaks on physical evidence

- Defective charging documents or speedy-trial violations

- Witness unavailability or recantation

- Insufficient evidence, the state cannot prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt

**Non-dismissal outcomes that still avoid a conviction:**

- Diversion programs (first-offender track)

- Deferred sentences (conditional, often ending in dismissal)

- Filings, the case is set aside for a period, then dismissed

- Pre-trial dispositions with community service or restitution

**At trial:**

- Rule 29 motion for judgment of acquittal

- Hung jury leading to dismissal

- Not-guilty verdict

Bank & Munns attacks every weakness in the state's case and pursues every off-ramp that ends without a conviction. Free consultation and full case evaluation at (401) 573-2265.