Providence Courthouses
Last updated: June 14, 2023
rhode island superior court
Providence, it’s the capital of Rhode Island and one of the oldest cities in the United States. The city is notable for many things--- the American Revolution, Brown University, Federal Hill, ethnic diversity, spectacular Italian food including Angelo’s Civita Farnese, the patriotic song I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy, and, of course, the Mafia.
“The Renaissance City” boasts a population of over 182,000 residents in 25 neighborhoods and only 20.5 square miles of land. It’s the third largest city by population in the New England region.
If you are in Rhode Islander with a court case in Providence County, you know there are several courthouses servicing the metropolitan area. If you have a criminal, civil, family law, probate, or worker’s compensation matter, it’s likely in one of the superior or district courts.
Here we’ve highlighted several key court systems you’ll most likely encounter: the Rhode Island Superior, District, Family and Worker’s Compensation courts, the Rhode Island Supreme Court, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Rhode Island, and the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island.
State Courts
-
Providence/Bristol County Superior Court
Licht Judicial Complex, 250 Benefit Street
Providence, RI 02903
Tel: (401) 222-3274Divisions: Appeals (District Court), Civil, Criminal (felony), and Drug Court.
Parking: Limited public parking is available on the streets and surrounding area. Parking garages and lots are available in the area for a fee. Consider riding RIPTA.
Note: This location also houses Gun Court, the nation’s first court specifically designed to prosecute gun-related crimes. It’s also home to the State Law Library. Jurors serving in Providence County will be provided with free parking and shuttle service to the courthouse. Public bus passes are also provided.
-
6th Division District Court
One Dorrance Plaza
Providence, RI 02903
Tel: (401) 458-5400Divisions: Civil (Up to $10,000) Criminal (misdemeanor), Domestic Violence, Family, Juvenile, Probate and Worker’s Compensation.
Parking: Limited public parking is available on the streets and surrounding area. Parking garages and lots are available in the area and the fee ranges in price. Consider riding RIPTA.
Note: This court also handles Landlord/Tenant dispute and Small Claims (401) 458-5402. Childcare services are available on 2nd Floor. Call the court for details. If you are in the area during lunch, don’t miss the “Murder Burger” at Haven’s Brother’s Diner.
-
Rhode Island Supreme Court
250 Benefit Street, 7th floor
Providence, RI 02903
Tel: (401) 222-3274Parking: Limited public parking is available on the streets and surrounding area. Parking garages and lots are available in the area and the fee ranges in price. Consider riding RIPTA.
Note: This is highest court in Rhode Island and has absolute appellate jurisdiction over all Superior court matters. Rhode Island does not have an intermediate appellate division.
Federal Courts
-
U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Rhode Island
380 Westminster Street, 6th Floor
Providence, RI 02903
Tel: (401) 626-3100Parking: InTown Parking Inc. offers visitors discounted parking rates at the following locations:
Lot 1: 357 Westminster Street (across from Federal Center between Snow and Aborn Streets).
Lot 2: 80 Snow Street at Grace Church
Lot 3: Chapel Street (Behind the Federal Center) at corner of Empire and Weybosset.
You can also take RIPTA. Use routes 11, 20 and 22 from the corner of Empire Street and Weybosset Street.
Note: This location handles all bankruptcy proceedings for Rhode Island residents. If you’re filing for bankruptcy, click here for more information.
-
U.S District Court for the District of Rhode Island
One Exchange Terrace
Providence, RI 02903
Tel: (401) 752-7200Parking: Parking is available at the Rhode Island Convention Center Parking Garage. Consider taking RIPTA.
Note: This location handles all federal cases. For questions regarding a criminal case, contact the U.S. Attorney for the District of Rhode Island or the Federal Public Defender.