About Orabona Law Offices, P.C. — criminal defense Providence Rhode Island
Orabona Law Offices, P.C., located at 129 Dorrance Street in downtown Providence, Rhode Island, has earned a reputation as one of the city’s most tenacious criminal defense and personal injury firms. Attorney Frank Orabona Jr. handles cases with a hands-on approach — clients report that he is personally engaged in their matters from initial consultation through resolution, never passing the work off without care. Criminal defense Providence clients praise his straightforwardness, his courtroom presence, and his ability to identify value in cases that other attorneys have dismissed or undervalued. The firm’s elegant Providence office at Dorrance Street reflects a commitment to professionalism that extends to every case interaction.
Frank Orabona has been serving Providence and Rhode Island clients for years, developing strong familiarity with the local court system — from the Rhode Island District Court and Superior Court to Providence County proceedings. His dual focus on criminal defense and personal injury gives clients a firm capable of handling both criminal charges and civil recovery actions that may arise from the same incident.
What Clients Say
Reviews consistently highlight Frank Orabona’s reliability, his ability to achieve outcomes other attorneys said were not possible, and the firm’s transparent communication throughout the process. Clients credit him with securing settlements well above initial expectations in injury cases, and with successfully defending criminal matters through skilled cross-examination and negotiation. Staff member Rosie is also recognized for being supportive and informative throughout the process.
criminal defense Providence — Practice Areas & Services
- Criminal defense — felony and misdemeanor charges in Providence County and statewide
- DUI/DWI defense in Rhode Island courts
- Personal injury and car accident litigation
- Assault, drug offense, and weapons charge defense
- Post-conviction consultation and case review
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at a first appearance in a Rhode Island criminal case?
At arraignment, the court formally reads the charges and the defendant enters a plea. The judge also considers bail conditions. Having an attorney present at arraignment is important — counsel can argue for reduced bail or release on personal recognizance, and begin assessing whether any pre-trial motions are appropriate to challenge the charges or evidence.
Can criminal charges be dismissed before trial in Providence?
Yes. Rhode Island courts permit pre-trial motions to dismiss, motions to suppress evidence obtained in violation of constitutional rights, and in some cases, deferred sentencing agreements that can lead to dismissal. A skilled criminal defense attorney will evaluate the strength of the prosecution’s evidence and identify procedural or constitutional weaknesses early in the case.
How does Rhode Island handle first-time felony charges?
Rhode Island has several diversion and deferred sentence programs for eligible first-time offenders, particularly for non-violent offenses and drug-related charges. Successfully completing a diversion program can result in the case being dismissed without a conviction on your record. Eligibility varies by charge and prior history, so early consultation with a criminal defense attorney is essential.
Quick Facts: Criminal Defense in Providence, Rhode Island
- Group A Offenses: Rhode Island Group A criminal offenses dropped 5.24% in 2024 compared to the prior year — Justice Reinvestment Initiative, RI Criminal Justice Data Snapshot
- Providence Crime Data: The Providence Police Department maintains an open data portal tracking reported crimes, arrests, and outcomes in real time — Providence Police Department Open Data Portal
- Court System: Rhode Island criminal cases are heard in the District Court (misdemeanors) and Superior Court (felonies), both of which have Providence divisions — Rhode Island Judiciary
Related Guide: Manosh Payette Criminal Defense Attorneys Providence


