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.

Rhode Island Bill Summary: Juvenile Questioning Protections

This bill would set new rules for how law enforcement can question minors (anyone under 18) who are suspected of breaking the law in Rhode Island. Under this proposal, police or other authorities could not interrogate or question a juvenile suspect unless a parent or guardian is physically present during the questioning. This is designed to ensure that young people have an adult they trust by their side during what can be an intimidating and consequential process.

There are two exceptions to this requirement. First, questioning can proceed if a lawyer (attorney) is present instead of a parent or guardian. Second, both the juvenile and their parents can choose to waive (voluntarily give up) the right to have a parent or attorney present, meaning they can agree to allow questioning without those protections if they choose to do so. This gives families some flexibility while still establishing clear baseline protections.

This bill primarily affects juveniles who come into contact with law enforcement, their parents or guardians, attorneys who work in juvenile cases, and law enforcement officers and prosecutors. Currently, the rules around juvenile questioning rely heavily on broader constitutional rights, and this bill would create a clearer, more specific standard under Rhode Island state law. The bill has been introduced and sent to the Senate Judiciary Committee, where it will be reviewed before any further action is taken.