When South Kingstown Town Councilor Jay Wegimont was charged with simple assault and battery after an alleged confrontation outside a council meeting, his career, reputation, and freedom hung in the balance. On October 17, 2025, Washington County District Court Judge…
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Being accused of domestic violence in Rhode Island can flip your life upside down in an instant. One moment you’re in an argument or an emotionally charged situation, and the next you’re facing criminal charges, possible jail time, and a…
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You or someone you care about has just been charged with a crime in Providence. Maybe it came out of nowhere. Maybe it’s been looming for weeks. Either way, you’re now faced with a decision that could change the course…
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Facing allegations of domestic violence and sexual crimes is overwhelming. The legal system moves quickly, and before you even have time to process what’s happening, you could be facing severe restrictions on your freedom, relationships, and future. In Rhode Island,…
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In December of 2024, John E. MacDonald published the 11th edition of Rhode Island Criminal Defense, A Practice Manual. The first edition of this manual was first published over 20 years ago and continues to be updated with the information that…
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Sex crime accusations are some of the most serious you can face. This is especially true here in Rhode Island, where convicted sex offenders face far more serious consequences than in many other states. Following the passage of Megan’s Law…
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These days, it’s nearly impossible to do anything on a computer or smartphone without leaving behind a digital footprint. This goes far beyond your internet history—websites and data providers have quite a few ways to identify which videos you’ve watched…
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When you’re facing a criminal charge in Rhode Island, understanding the sentencing process is crucial. Otherwise, you have no idea what your options are in terms of protecting your rights and your future. As a skilled, knowledgeable criminal defense attorney…
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Most of us, at some point in our lives, have had our intentions misconstrued. Usually, it’s something minor—like a parent thinking you were sneaking out when you were really just out of bed to get a midnight snack. But for…
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Like many states, Rhode Island classifies sex crimes as either misdemeanors or felonies. But these are more than just labels used by our legal system. Whether you’re charged with a misdemeanor or felony in RI has a major impact on…
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As an RI criminal defense attorney with 25+ years of experience, one of the questions John E. MacDonald hears most often is, “What’s the difference between being detained vs arrested in Rhode Island?” There are several key differences between these…
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In Rhode Island, “statutory rape” is defined as an adult having consensual sex with a minor who’s too young to legally consent. But this definition might make you wonder how rape and consent could possibly occur at the same time….
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