Rhode Island police can detain you on reasonable suspicion for up to two hours without arresting or charging you. After an arrest, you must be brought before a judge for arraignment within 24 hours on weekdays or within 48 hours if your arrest happens over a weekend. If police hold you longer than these statutory limits without charges, that detention can be challenged in court, and any statements you made during the unlawful detention may be excluded from evidence. Even during a legal detention you retain your right to remain silent and your right to ask for a lawyer.
