Rhode Island Public Defender’s Newport County Office

The Rhode Island Public Defender (RIPD) is a firm of lawyers who defend adults and juveniles accused of committing crimes and represent parents threatened with loss of custody of their children because of neglect or abuse allegations. The Newport County RIPD's Office is supported by seven Public Defenders, five Assistant Public Defenders, professional social workers, legal secretaries, investigators and interpreters, representing clients in state court proceedings from the first appearance before a judge through trial or hearing and through appeal if necessary. The Public Defender's office can only represent people charged with crimes or facing a loss of custody of a child to the State. They do not represent people on such matters as divorces, car accidents, evictions, wills and consumer complaints. Their goal is to provide client-centered advice, holistic representation and zealous advocacy with support from their team. The Public Defender's commitment is to treat their clients with dignity, compassion and fairness. For more information on the services of the Rhode Island Public Defender's Washington County Office, please contact them directly.