---
title: "What happens at a domestic violence arraignment in Rhode Island?"
description: "At a Rhode Island domestic violence arraignment, the judge reads the charges, advises you of your rights, accepts your plea (typically not guilty), sets bail or release conditions, and almost always..."
url: https://www.chadbanklaw.com/faq-items/what-happens-at-a-domestic-violence-arraignment-in-rhode-island/
date: 2026-05-23
modified: 2026-05-23
author: "The Law Office of Chad F Bank"
type: avada_faq
lang: en
---

# What happens at a domestic violence arraignment in Rhode Island?

At a Rhode Island domestic violence arraignment, the judge reads the charges, advises you of your rights, accepts your plea (typically not guilty), sets bail or release conditions, and almost always issues a no-contact order prohibiting contact with the alleged victim. The arraignment typically happens within 24 to 48 hours of arrest in Rhode Island District Court. The no-contact order often requires you to leave the shared home immediately, which can create urgent housing and child custody issues. Having a lawyer at arraignment is critical for arguing favorable bail conditions and limiting the scope of the no-contact order where possible.