S.2158

Prohibits any questioning of a juvenile who is suspected of delinquent or criminal behavior, unless the parent of guardian of the juvenile is present, or unless an attorney is present or the juvenile and their parents have waived their presence.

Introduced·1/16/26
Introduced Text

Rhode Island S2158 prohibits questioning of a juvenile suspected of delinquent or criminal behavior unless a parent, guardian, or attorney is present.

Rhode Island S2158 mandates that any questioning of a juvenile suspected of delinquent or criminal behavior must occur only if the juvenile's parent or legal guardian is present, or if an attorney is present, or if the juvenile and their parents or guardians have waived their presence. The bill also ensures that if the juvenile cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed at no cost. Exceptions include situations where the juvenile has knowingly and voluntarily waived their rights, is emancipated, or misrepresented their age as eighteen or older. The bill takes effect upon passage.

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  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Judiciary Committee
Next
Session adjourned — paused until it reconvenes

Sponsors

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8
0
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

Senate Committee on Judiciary: Be held for further study

8 Yea

DDDDDDRD

0 Nay

2 Absent

DD

Calendar

May 19

12:00 AM

Senate Judiciary Hearing

History

May 19

Senate

Committee recommended measure be held for further study

May 15

Senate

Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration (05/19/2026)

Jan 16

Senate

Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary