---
title: "What are the penalties for a misdemeanor in Providence?"
description: "Misdemeanor penalties in Providence vary by offense. Maximum jail time is 1 year per charge, but many misdemeanors carry much shorter realistic maximums. Fines range from $50 to several thousand..."
url: https://duiattorneyrhodeisland.com/faq-items/what-are-the-penalties-for-a-misdemeanor-in-providence/
date: 2026-05-23
modified: 2026-05-23
author: "Criminal Defense Attorney Rory Munns"
type: faq
lang: en
---

# What are the penalties for a misdemeanor in Providence?

Misdemeanor penalties in Providence vary by offense. Maximum jail time is 1 year per charge, but many misdemeanors carry much shorter realistic maximums. Fines range from $50 to several thousand dollars depending on the statute. Most first-offense misdemeanor convictions result in fines and probation rather than jail, especially for non-violent offenses. Mandatory components like community service, drug education programs, anger management, or restitution often accompany the sentence. The misdemeanor conviction itself stays on your record permanently unless successfully expunged after a 5-year waiting period.