Comprehensive guide to Rhode Island's legal system, bar association, law schools, and legal services.
4,500+
Lawyers in Rhode Island5
Justices (founded 1747)Multiple
Superior, District, Family courts1
ABA-accredited institutionThe Rhode Island Bar Association regulates legal practice and maintains professional standards for attorneys throughout the state.
Website: Rhode Island Bar Association
Rhode Island has a unique court structure with the Supreme Court at the apex and no intermediate appellate court.
| Court Level | Details |
|---|---|
| Supreme Court | 5 justices (no intermediate appellate court) |
| Superior Court | General jurisdiction trial court |
| District Court | Limited civil jurisdiction |
| Family Court | Family law, custody, juvenile cases |
| Workers' Compensation | Workplace injury claims |
Resources: Rhode Island Courts
Rhode Island has approximately 4,500+ licensed attorneys serving in various practice areas.
Rhode Island is home to one ABA-accredited law school.
Bristol, Rhode Island
Rhode Island provides free and low-cost legal services to low-income residents through multiple organizations.
Phone: (401) 831-3150 or (800) 733-5332
Services: Family law, housing, government benefits, domestic violence
Organization: Rhode Island Bar Association funded
Services: Pro bono legal assistance for qualified low-income residents
Find Help: Help RI Law
Use the Rhode Island Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service at ribar.org, contact local bar associations, search Justia's lawyer directory, or consult attorney review platforms.
You must graduate from an ABA-accredited law school, pass the Rhode Island bar examination, demonstrate moral character and fitness, and meet admission requirements. No Rhode Island residency is required.
Yes. Rhode Island Legal Services (RILS) provides free civil legal assistance to low-income individuals, and the Volunteer Lawyer Program offers pro bono services. Help RI Law connects residents with available services.
Rhode Island has one ABA-accredited law school: Roger Williams University School of Law in Bristol, established in 1993 and accredited since 1995.
Rhode Island is unique because it has no intermediate appellate court. Appeals from trial courts go directly to the Rhode Island Supreme Court, which has five justices. The Supreme Court was founded in 1747.
Visit the Rhode Island Courts website at courts.ri.gov for information about all state courts, judges, procedures, and programs. Federal court information is available at rib.uscourts.gov.
The U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island handles federal civil and criminal cases, bankruptcy proceedings are handled in Bankruptcy Court, and the First Circuit Court of Appeals hears federal appeals.
Roger Williams University School of Law is known for maritime law education, public interest law focus, and affordable tuition (most affordable ABA-accredited private law school in the Northeast). The school also offers joint degree programs in marine affairs and other specializations.
USA Law and Legal Resources > Rhode Island Legal Resources
Last updated on November 27, 2025