My question involves criminal law for the state of: Rhode Island
My niece (brother's daughter) confided in me that she planned to run
away from home. I told her that she would never have to do that, and if
she felt unsafe at home she could always come to my house and stay for
as long as she needed to. Now she wants to move into my house for the
summer. We both know that her mother will not be pleased with this decision and will not consent to the move - conflict with her mother is the primary reason she feels she cannot stay at home.
Can her mother bring charges of any kind against me for providing her
with a place to stay without her permission? If so, what kind of charges, and how can I protect myself legally while helping my niece stay safe?
My brother, her father, supports this move and has half custody of his daughter. Does his knowledge and permission protect me in any way?

