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Your Trusted Rhode Island Criminal Defense Attorney
S. Joshua Macktaz has been a trusted criminal defense attorney in Rhode Island for over 30 years, offering aggressive advocacy rooted in deep legal expertise. As a former Rhode Island Special Assistant Attorney General, I prosecuted hundreds of criminal cases, including DUIs and violent crimes, giving me unparalleled insight into the judicial system. This experience allows me to craft effective defense strategies tailored to each client's unique circumstances. Our firm prioritizes personalized service, ensuring every client receives direct communication and transparent guidance throughout their case.

We specialize in DUI defense, criminal defense, expungement, and domestic violence cases, with a proven track record of securing dismissals and favorable outcomes. Clients consistently praise our responsiveness, professionalism, and commitment to protecting reputations and futures. With offices across Rhode Island, including Cranston, Providence, and Newport, we serve all 39 cities and towns, offering 24/7 availability for urgent legal needs.
Services
DUI Defense Criminal Defense Expungement Domestic Violence Traffic Tickets
Details
  • Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
  • Former Rhode Island State Prosecutor with insider knowledge of prosecution tactics
  • 30+ years of experience defending Rhode Island criminal and DUI cases
  • Personalized representation with direct communication from the lead attorney
  • Over 500 5-star reviews highlighting successful case outcomes
  • 24/7 availability for urgent legal matters and immediate case intervention
What people say
Outstanding results Knowledgeable attorney Responsive communication Dismissed charges Aggressive advocacy
Services
DUI Defense
Our DUI defense service leverages decades of prosecutorial and defense experience to challenge breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and procedural errors. We specialize in dismissing charges or minimizing penalties through technical legal strategies. Clients benefit from our intimate knowledge of Rhode Island DUI law and court relationships.
Criminal Defense
We defend all criminal charges from misdemeanors to felonies, including assault, drug offenses, and shoplifting. Our approach combines aggressive courtroom advocacy with strategic plea negotiations. Former prosecutorial experience informs our ability to anticipate opposing tactics and counter them effectively.
Expungement
Our expungement service helps clients erase criminal records to improve employment and licensing opportunities. We navigate Rhode Island's complex expungement laws to secure dismissals and record sealing for eligible offenses, with proven success in hundreds of cases.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence defense requires sensitivity and legal precision. We challenge evidence credibility and protect clients' rights while minimizing personal and professional repercussions. Our track record includes reducing charges and securing non-conviction outcomes.
Breathalyzer Refusal
We defend breathalyzer refusal cases by challenging the legality of stops and arrests. Our expertise in Rhode Island's implied consent laws helps clients avoid license suspensions through technical defenses and procedural challenges.
People
S. Joshua Macktaz
Attorney & Founder
With 30+ years of legal experience, including 4 years as a Rhode Island Special Assistant Attorney General, S. Joshua Macktaz has prosecuted and defended hundreds of criminal cases. He lectures on DUI investigation techniques and focuses on personalized defense strategies.
Questions
What areas of Rhode Island do you serve?
We represent clients in all 39 Rhode Island cities and towns, including Providence, Cranston, Newport, and Warwick.
Do you handle first-time DUI offenses?
Yes, we defend all DUI cases, including first-time offenses, with strategies focused on dismissal or minimizing penalties.
How can you help with criminal record expungement?
We secure expungements for eligible offenses, permanently removing charges from public records to improve employment prospects.
What differentiates your criminal defense approach?
Our former prosecutorial experience provides unique insight into building effective defense strategies tailored to each case.
Are you available for emergencies?
Yes, we offer 24/7 legal representation for urgent matters like arrests or bail hearings.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Rick Kostanski
Dec 01, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism,Responsiveness
I contacted Josh on a reference from a friend that had a similar situation to mine with a DUI out of State. Josh made me feel comfortable when the world seemed to close in around me. The process was painless with the State of Rhode Island. I Highly recommend him!
Jennifer Tebano
Nov 27, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
Josh was extremely professional and always kept me informed. Always knew what to expect, answered all of my questions, made me feel comfortable despite the difficult circumstances. Would highly recommend to anyone in a similar situation.
Morgan Smith
Nov 27, 2021 Report
Mr. Macktaz went above and beyond helping with my case, after calling his office he responded to me within 10 minutes with an exceptional amount of information to help even knowing little info on my matter. Working with Mr. Macktaz was painless and took a lot of weight off my shoulders, if I need another defense attorney I am for sure going to request his assistance again 100%.
Dan Civiello
Nov 25, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Value
Josh was extremely professional and got my charges dismissed! I highly recommend his services to everyone and would not hesitate to choose him again if I had to. Thanks Josh!
Sean Breslin
Nov 25, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
Joshua is a master at what he does and he is the person you want representing you. He's extremely experienced, professional, and reliable. He was able to get me the most favorable outcome with the least amount headache. He is a pleasure to work with and I would not hesitate to say he your best option. I highly recommend his service.
Tristan Clements
Nov 19, 2021 Report
Josh was very knowledgeable when it came to my particular case, and truly wanted the best possible outcome. Which he achieved. From our consultation to the end of the case, Josh answered any and every question I had quickly, and in great detail. He is very respected and well known in the courtroom, which was a relief knowing youre in good hands.