Business Details
29 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Experienced Newport Criminal Defense & DUI Attorney
With over 30 years of dedicated legal experience, S. Joshua Macktaz, Esq has established a reputation as a trusted criminal defense and DUI attorney in Newport, Rhode Island. As a former Rhode Island Special Assistant Attorney General, I bring unique prosecutorial insights to every case, leveraging deep knowledge of courtroom strategies and Rhode Island law. My practice prioritizes personalized attention, offering 24/7 availability for emergencies and free consultations to ensure clients understand their rights and options.I focus on achieving tangible results, including dismissed charges, reduced penalties, and successful expungements, while maintaining transparent communication throughout the legal process. My commitment to client advocacy is reflected in consistent recognition from peers and over 500 five-star reviews from satisfied clients.
Services
DUI Defense
Criminal Defense
Expungement Services
Breathalyzer Refusal Cases
Juvenile Offenses
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- 30 years of Rhode Island criminal defense experience
- Former state prosecutor with insider understanding of DUI cases
- Free detailed case evaluations for all clients
- 24/7 availability for emergency legal situations
- Proven track record of dismissed charges and reduced penalties
What people say
Excellent attorney
Highly recommend
Best in Rhode Island
Professional and responsive
Achieved great results
Services
DUI Defense
Comprehensive defense for DUI charges including first-time offenses, repeat violations, and high BAC cases. Utilizes prosecutorial experience to challenge evidence and negotiate reduced penalties while protecting driving privileges.
Criminal Defense
Representation for felony and misdemeanor charges including assault, drug crimes, and domestic violence. Focuses on case dismissal, charge reduction, and minimizing sentencing impacts through strategic legal defense.
Expungement Services
Legal process to clear criminal records for eligible offenses. Handles all documentation and court proceedings to remove convictions from public records and restore personal and professional opportunities.
Breathalyzer Refusal
Specialized defense for breathalyzer refusal charges. Challenges suspension validity and mitigates penalties while addressing underlying DUI allegations through technical and procedural defenses.
Juvenile Offenses
Defense for minors facing criminal charges. Focuses on diversion programs, record sealing, and minimizing long-term consequences while addressing rehabilitation and educational needs.
People
S. Joshua Macktaz, Esq
Attorney & Founder
30-year legal veteran and former Rhode Island prosecutor specializing in DUI defense and criminal law. Trained police on DUI investigations and consistently achieves favorable outcomes through trial experience and strategic negotiations.
Questions
What experience does S. Joshua Macktaz have in DUI defense?
With 30+ years of experience including prosecution and defense work, he has handled thousands of Rhode Island DUI cases and trained police on DUI investigations.
What are common DUI defense strategies?
Challenging field sobriety test accuracy, breathalyzer calibration, proper administration procedures, and constitutional violations during traffic stops.
Can criminal records be expunged in Rhode Island?
Yes, first-time offenders may qualify for expungement after 5-10 years depending on offense severity, with exceptions for violent crimes.
What happens if I refuse a breathalyzer test?
First offense refusal carries 6-12 month license suspension, $200-$500 fines, and potential community service requirements.
How are DUI penalties determined in Newport?
Penalties depend on BAC level, prior offenses, and whether the case involves injury or death, with enhanced penalties for BAC .15%+
What services are available for juvenile offenses?
Defense for underage DUI, drug possession, and other charges with focus on minimizing long-term consequences and record sealing.
