Rhode Island's adult diversion program, run through the Attorney General's office, lets eligible first-time offenders avoid a conviction by completing a set of conditions - typically community service, a program fee, educational components, and staying out of trouble for a defined period. When you finish, the charge is dismissed and can be expunged. Eligibility generally requires a clean or near-clean prior record, a non-violent offense, and willingness to take responsibility. Not every shoplifting defendant qualifies, and the prosecutor has significant discretion. A Rhode Island shoplifting lawyer can evaluate eligibility, push the prosecutor to offer diversion, and negotiate the terms so they are actually completable. For many Bank & Munns clients, diversion is the difference between a permanent record and a second chance.