reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-9. - Commitment of attached witness — Recognizance.

§ 9-17-9. Commitment of attached witness — Recognizance.
If the court from which the writ of attachment issues, pursuant to § 9-17-8, shall not be in session at the time of the service of the writ, the officer charged with the service thereof shall commit the witness to jail, either in the county from which the writ shall issue or in which the witness shall be, there to be kept until he or she shall give recognizance before some person authorized to take bail in the same county, with sufficient surety, in the sum of one hundred dollars ($100), to appear before the court on the day named in the writ, or, failing to give recognizance, until he or she is discharged by the court; and the recognizance shall be returned by the person to the clerk of the court.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 367; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 13; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 13; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 11; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-9; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 82.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-10. - Discharge from custody on giving of recognizance.

§ 9-17-10. Discharge from custody on giving of recognizance.
The witness may give recognizance as provided in § 9-17-9 while in custody of the officer, before he or she is committed to jail; and thereupon the officer shall discharge him or her from custody.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 368; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 14; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 14; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 12; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-10; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 82.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-11. - Civil liability for failure to attend.

§ 9-17-11. Civil liability for failure to attend.
Every witness who does not appear according to the tenor of the subpoena, and has no reasonable excuse for his or her nonappearance, shall be liable to an action by the aggrieved party for all damages sustained in consequence of the default.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 364; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 10; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 10; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 13; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-12. - Competency of parties or interested persons.

§ 9-17-12. Competency of parties or interested persons.
No person shall be disqualified from testifying in any civil action or proceeding by reason of his or her being interested therein or being a party thereto.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 389; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 37; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 37; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 14; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-13. - Spouses of parties.

§ 9-17-13. Spouses of parties.
In the trial of every civil cause, the husband or wife of either party shall be deemed a competent witness; provided, that neither shall be permitted to give any testimony tending to criminate the other or to disclose any communication made to him or her, by the other, during their marriage, except on trials of petitions for divorce between them, trials between them involving their respective property rights, and under the provisions of § 11-34.1-9.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 391; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 39; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 39; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 15; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-13; P.L. 2010, ch. 239, § 16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-14. - Repealed.

§ 9-17-14. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 58; P.L. 1939, ch. 705, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-14; Repealed by P.L. 1987, ch. 381, § 4. Section 7 of P.L. 1987, ch. 381 provides that the repeal of this section by that Act shall take effect on the date that Rhode Island Rules of Evidence adopted by the Supreme Court take effect. Those Rules took effect October 1, 1987.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-15. - Effect of conviction for crime.

§ 9-17-15. Effect of conviction for crime.
No person shall be deemed an incompetent witness because of his or her conviction of any crime, or sentence to imprisonment therefor; but shall be admitted to testify like any other witness, except that conviction or sentence for any crime or misdemeanor may be shown to affect his or her credibility.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 395; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 43; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 43; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 16; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-16. - Repealed.

§ 9-17-16. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 390; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 38; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 38; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 18; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-16; Repealed by P.L. 1987, ch. 381, § 4. Section 7 of P.L. 1987, ch. 381 provides that the repeal of this section by that Act shall take effect on the date that Rhode Island Rules of Evidence adopted by the Supreme Court take effect. Those Rules took effect October 1, 1987.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-17. - Cross-examination not a waiver of exception.

§ 9-17-17. Cross-examination not a waiver of exception.
Where the testimony of a witness upon any subject, at any trial or hearing, is admitted by the court, and exception thereto is taken, the cross-examination of the witness upon the subject, by the party excepting thereto, shall not be considered a waiver of the exception.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 405¾; P.L. 1909, ch. 418, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 54; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 19; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-18. - Certificate of days and mileage as prerequisite to payment of fees.

§ 9-17-18. Certificate of days and mileage as prerequisite to payment of fees.
Every witness, previous to his or her obtaining any fee, except the amount which, in certain cases, must be tendered to him or her before he or she can be compelled to attend, shall give a certificate to the court wherein he or she has attended, certifying the number of days he or she has attended and the number of miles he or she has traveled; which certificate shall be subject to the examination of the court, and, if question arises, such allowance shall be made thereon as shall be lawfully due.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 369; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 15; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 15; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-18.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-19 - — 9-17-21. Repealed.

§ 9-17-19 — 9-17-21. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, §§ 370-372; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, §§ 18-20; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, §§ 18-20; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, §§ 20-22; G.L. 1956, §§ 9-17-19 — 9-17-21; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 31; P.L. 1972, ch. 169, § 6; P.L. 1979, ch. 373, § 6; Repealed by P.L. 1987, ch. 381, § 4. Section 7 of P.L. 1987, ch. 381 provides that the repeal of this section by that Act shall take effect on the date that Rhode Island Rules of Evidence adopted by the Supreme Court take effect. Those Rules took effect October 1, 1987.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-22. - Expert fees as costs.

§ 9-17-22. Expert fees as costs.
Fees of experts, except as provided in the Rules of Evidence, shall not be allowed as part of the costs in any case in excess of the fees allowed for ordinary witnesses.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 373; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 21; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 21; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 23; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-22; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 82.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-23. - Privileged communications to clergy.

§ 9-17-23. Privileged communications to clergy.
In the trial of every cause, both civil and criminal, no member of the clergy or priest shall be competent to testify concerning any confession made to him or her in his or her professional character in the course of discipline enjoined by the church to which he or she belongs, without the consent of the person making the confession. No duly ordained minister of the gospel, priest, or rabbi of any denomination shall be allowed in giving testimony to disclose any confidential communication, properly entrusted to him or her in his or her professional capacity, and necessary and proper to enable him or her to discharge the functions of his or her office in the usual course of practice or discipline, without the consent of the person making the communication.
History of Section.
P.L. 1960, ch. 109, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-24. - Privileged communications to and information obtained by health care providers.

§ 9-17-24. Privileged communications to and information obtained by health care providers.
In every legal action, both civil and criminal, no health care provider shall be competent to testify concerning any information obtained about a patient, nor shall he or she be required to produce any documentary evidence obtained about a patient, in the course of the customary professional health care relationship, without the consent of the patient, his or her legal guardian, or, if the patient is deceased, his or her next-of-kin, executor, or administrator. No health care provider shall be allowed in giving testimony to disclose any confidential communication or health care information, properly entrusted to him or her in his or her professional capacity and within the customary health care relationship, and necessary and proper to enable him or her to discharge medical duties in the usual course of practice, without the consent of the patient, his or her legal guardian, or, if the patient is deceased, his or her next-of-kin, executor, or administrator. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a health care provider may be required to testify or produce documentary evidence regarding the medical condition of a patient:
(1)
When a patient raises his or her own medical condition in a legal action;
(2)
When a court determines that disclosure of health care information about a person is necessary to a determination of the perceptual capacity of that person as a witness in a legal proceeding and that information is unavailable from any source other than a health care provider;
(3)
When a court orders or the parties to a legal action agree to a medical evaluation of a party or witness by a health care provider in order to facilitate the resolution of the legal action;
(4)
When the question of the competence of a decedent is at issue before the court; or
(5)
When consent is not required pursuant to chapter 37.3 of title 5; provided, however, that any such information shall not be admissible in any proceeding against the patient to whom the information pertains.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 341, § 1; P.L. 1989, ch. 503, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-25. - Privileged communication — Interpreter.

§ 9-17-25. Privileged communication — Interpreter.
Whenever a sign language interpreter is used to facilitate a communication which is privileged pursuant to either statutory law or common law between parties, one or more of whom is hearing impaired, the sign language interpreter shall not be compelled to testify in any forum regarding that communication.
History of Section.
P.L. 1990, ch. 281, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-1. - Officials authorized to take depositions.

§ 9-18-1. Officials authorized to take depositions.
Any justice of the supreme or superior or family court, justice of the peace, or notary public may take the deposition of any witness to be used in the trial of any civil suit, action, petition, or proceeding in which he or she is not interested, nor counsel, nor the attorney of either party, and which shall then be commenced or pending in this state, or in any other state, or in the District of Columbia, or in any territory, government, or country.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 374; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 22; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 22; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 19-18-1; P.L. 1966, ch. 1, § 9; P.L. 1979, ch. 373, § 7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-2. - Notice to adverse party.

§ 9-18-2. Notice to adverse party.
Previous to the taking of any deposition within this state, the official authorized to take the deposition shall, in all cases, cause the adverse party or his or her attorney of record to be notified in writing of the time and place appointed for taking the depositions, so that he or she may attend and put interrogatories to the deponent if he or she think fit; provided, that if the person to be notified cannot be found and his or her residence is not known and he or she has no attorney of record, the moving party or his or her attorney may make affidavit of such facts before any justice of the superior court at any time, and thereupon the justice shall prescribe the method in which notice shall be given to the person.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 375; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 23; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 23; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-3. - Address and time of service of notice.

§ 9-18-3. Address and time of service of notice.
The notification issued by the magistrate, officer, or commissioner who shall take the deposition shall be directed to any proper officer, or to any impartial or disinterested person, and shall be served a reasonable time, not less than twenty-four (24) hours, exclusive of Sundays and legal holidays, before the time of taking the deposition.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 376; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 24; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 24; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-4. - Service and return of notice.

§ 9-18-4. Service and return of notice.
The officer or other person charged with the service of the notification shall serve the notification by reading it to the party to be cited, if to be found; and if not to be found, by leaving a copy thereof at his or her usual place of abode; and shall, in his or her return, state the manner and time of the service; and whenever the service shall be made by any person other than a sworn officer, he or she shall verify the return, under oath, before some officer authorized to administer oaths.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 377; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 25; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 25; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-5. - Manner of taking depositions outside state for use in state.

§ 9-18-5. Manner of taking depositions outside state for use in state.
Depositions may be taken without this state to be used in the tribunals of this state, upon written notice conforming to the applicable rules of procedure, and shall be taken in the manner and with the formalities required by the law of this state or the state, district, territory, or country in which the deposition shall be taken; or shall be taken, if taken in any other state, district, or territory of the United States, before a commissioner appointed by the governor of this state, or before a judge, chancellor, justice of the peace, notary public, or civil magistrate of the state, district, or territory, respectively, or, if taken out of the United States, before a resident official of the United States, or, if the deponent is in the military, air, or naval service of the United States, before a colonel, lieutenant colonel, or major in the army or air force, or before any officer in the navy not below the grade and rank of lieutenant commander. And in every such case under the second method, the party causing the depositions to be taken shall notify the adverse party, or his or her attorney of record, of the time and place appointed for taking the deposition; and the notification issued by the official before whom the deposition is to be taken shall be served, in the manner as provided in § 9-18-4, such reasonable time before the taking of the deposition as will give the adverse party a full opportunity to be present in person or by attorney and put interrogatories to the deponent, if he or she thinks fit.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 378; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 26; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 26; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-5; P.L. 1989, ch. 81, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 69.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-6. - Oath of deponent — Reduction of deposition to writing.

§ 9-18-6. Oath of deponent — Reduction of deposition to writing.
Every person, before deposing, shall be sworn to testify the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, and after giving the deposition shall subscribe his or her name thereto, if taken in longhand in the presence of the official before whom the deposition was taken. The deposition may be reduced to writing by the official or by any person, including the deponent, under his or her direction and in his or her presence, or may be reduced to writing stenographically either by the official or by some person in his or her presence and under his or her direction, sworn by the official to correctly take down in shorthand, the evidence as given; and in the latter case, a transcript thereof in longhand writing, typewriting, print, or other reproduction, sworn to by the person stenographically reporting the deposition and signed by the deponent, shall be received in evidence. The signature in the latter case shall be attested by the official taking the deposition or by some magistrate authorized to administer oaths whether in this state or elsewhere.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 379; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 27; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 27; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-7. - Sealing and delivery to court.

§ 9-18-7. Sealing and delivery to court.
The deposition, once taken, shall be retained by the magistrate, officer, or commissioner until he or she delivers the deposition with his or her own hand to the court for which it is taken, or shall, together with a certificate of its having been duly taken, be by the magistrate, officer, or commissioner, sealed up and directed to such court and delivered to the clerk thereof, and remain so sealed until opened by order of the court or of some justice thereof, or by the clerk with the consent of the parties; and any person may be compelled to appear and depose as provided in this chapter within this state, in the same manner as to appear and testify in court.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 380; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 28; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 28; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-7; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 83.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-8. - Deposition as evidence — Use of certified copy.

§ 9-18-8. Deposition as evidence — Use of certified copy.
The deposition of any person taken pursuant to this chapter may be used as evidence in the trial of any judicial proceeding in any court, or town council, or before commissioners, masters in chancery, referees, or auditors, in which it shall have been taken to be used; and if the party who took the deposition shall neglect to produce or use it, the adverse party may use the original or a copy of the deposition, certified by the magistrate before whom it was taken.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 381; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 29; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 29; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-9. - Court grant of commission to take deposition.

§ 9-18-9. Court grant of commission to take deposition.
Any court may, on the motion of either party in any action, suit, or proceeding, civil or criminal, pending therein, in which a deposition may be used, or before any commissioners, referees, or auditors appointed by any such court or under a rule from it, grant a commission to take depositions according to law, whenever it may be necessary to prevent a failure or delay of justice, on such terms as such court, by general or special order, may direct; and the deposition, so taken, may be used in any state of the cause, on appeal or otherwise.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 382; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 30; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 30; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-10. - Time of taking deposition.

§ 9-18-10. Time of taking deposition.
Depositions may be taken as provided in this chapter at any time; provided, however, that no deposition to be used in a jury trial shall be taken during the progress of the trial, except upon order of the justice presiding.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 383; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 31; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 31; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-11. - Depositions for use in foreign tribunals.

§ 9-18-11. Depositions for use in foreign tribunals.
Depositions may be taken in this state to be used on the trial of any cause pending in a tribunal of any other state, district, territory, or country, pursuant to chapter 18.1 of this title.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 384; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 32; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 32; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 11; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-11; P.L. 2019, ch. 190, § 2; P.L. 2019, ch. 241, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-12. - Petition for perpetuation of testimony — Designation of person to take deposition.

§ 9-18-12. Petition for perpetuation of testimony — Designation of person to take deposition.
Any person, desirous of perpetuating the testimony of any witness concerning any matter which is or may be the subject of litigation, as well before as after litigation is commenced, may present a petition in writing to any justice of the supreme or superior or family court, or to any justice of a district court, setting forth the reasons of his or her application, the name of the witness or witnesses, the subject matter of the controversy, and the names of all persons known to be interested therein, and praying that the deposition of the witness or witnesses may be taken; and thereupon if the justice be satisfied of the reasonableness of the petition, he or she shall designate some notary public or standing master in chancery to take the deposition, to whom the petition, with the order of designation thereon, shall be sent.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 385; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 33; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 33; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 12; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-12; P.L. 1979, ch. 373, § 7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-13. - Manner of taking deposition in perpetual memory.

§ 9-18-13. Manner of taking deposition in perpetual memory.
The same formalities shall be observed as to notice, and the same methods may be employed, in the taking of depositions in perpetual memory as in the taking of other depositions, and the officer taking the deposition shall have the same power and authority as magistrates taking other depositions to compel any person to appeal and depose as provided in this chapter, within this state, in the same manner as to appear and testify in court. In case any person who is entitled to notice of the taking of the deposition shall be or reside outside of this state, the notice may be served by any disinterested person, and such other notice shall be given as the justice to whom the petition was presented may order.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 387; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 35; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 35; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 14; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-13; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 69.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-14. - Delivery and recording of deposition in perpetual memory.

§ 9-18-14. Delivery and recording of deposition in perpetual memory.
The officer taking the deposition shall seal up and direct the deposition, together with the petition therefor, to the clerk of the superior court for the county in which some one of the persons notified of the taking of the deposition shall reside, or if no one of the persons so notified shall reside in this state, then the court for the county in which the person preferring the petition shall reside, and in case no one of the persons notified nor the person preferring the petition shall reside in this state, then in Providence county. The clerk shall, on receiving the deposition and petition, so directed and sealed up, on payment of legal fees for recording as in other cases, open and record the deposition and petition and the certificate of the taking of the deposition, in a book to be specifically kept for that purpose, noting on the deposition the time when he or she received it and the page of the book in which it is recorded, after which he or she shall deliver the deposition and petition to the party preferring the petition; and no deposition not so recorded shall be received as evidence in any court in the state, unless the deposition shall be opened in court at the time of the hearing of the cause in which it is used.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 388; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 36; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 36; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 15; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-15. - Admissibility of deposition taken to perpetuate testimony.

§ 9-18-15. Admissibility of deposition taken to perpetuate testimony.
The deposition, in case of the death of any deponent, his or her of unsound mind, his or her absence from this state, or inability to attend, may be used as evidence in any court in this state against any person who shall have had due notice of the taking of the deposition, his or her heirs, executors, or administrators.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 386; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 34; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 34; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 13; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18 - Depositions › Section 9-18-16. - Use in bastardy cases.

§ 9-18-16. Use in bastardy cases.
Depositions taken in conformity to the provisions of this chapter may be used in the trial of any bastardy case.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 393; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 41; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 41; G.L. 1938, ch. 539, § 16; G.L. 1956, § 9-18-16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18.1 - Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act › Section 9-18.1-1. - Short title.

§ 9-18.1-1. Short title.
This chapter may be cited as the “Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act.”
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 190, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 241, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18.1 - Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act › Section 9-18.1-2. - Definitions.

§ 9-18.1-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter:
(1)
“Foreign jurisdiction” means a state other than this state.
(2)
“Foreign subpoena” means a subpoena issued under authority of a court of record of a foreign jurisdiction.
(3)
“Person” means an individual, corporation, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, limited-liability company, association, joint venture, public corporation, government or governmental subdivision, agency, or instrumentality, or any other legal or commercial entity.
(4)
“State” means a state of the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Islands, or any territory or insular possession subject to the jurisdiction of the United States.
(5)
“Subpoena” means a document, however denominated, issued under authority of a court of record requiring a person to:
(i)
Attend and give testimony at a deposition;
(ii)
Produce and permit inspection and copying of designated books, documents, records, electronically stored information, or tangible things in the possession, custody, or control of the person; or
(iii)
Permit inspection of premises under the control of the person.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 190, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 241, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18.1 - Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act › Section 9-18.1-3. - Issuance of subpoena.

§ 9-18.1-3. Issuance of subpoena.
(a)
To request issuance of a subpoena under this section, a party shall submit a foreign subpoena to:
(1)
A clerk of the superior court in the county in which discovery is sought to be conducted in this state; or
(2)
A lawyer who is a member in good standing of the bar of this state. A request for the issuance of a subpoena under this act does not constitute an appearance in the courts of this state.
(b)
When a party submits a foreign subpoena to a clerk of the superior court in this state, the clerk, in accordance with the court’s procedure, shall promptly issue a subpoena for service on the person to which the foreign subpoena is directed. When a party submits a subpoena to a lawyer who is a member in good standing of the bar of this state, the lawyer may issue a subpoena for service on the person to which the foreign subpoena is directed.
(c)
A subpoena under subsection (b) of this section shall:
(1)
Incorporate the terms used in the foreign subpoena;
(2)
Contain or be accompanied by the names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of all counsel of record in the proceeding to which the subpoena relates and of any party not represented by counsel; and
(3)
Otherwise be in a form that complies with the laws of this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 190, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 241, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18.1 - Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act › Section 9-18.1-4. - Service of subpoena.

§ 9-18.1-4. Service of subpoena.
A subpoena issued under § 9-18.1-3 shall be served in compliance with the Rhode Island superior court rules of civil procedure.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 190, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 241, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18.1 - Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act › Section 9-18.1-5. - Deposition, production, and inspection.

§ 9-18.1-5. Deposition, production, and inspection.
The Rhode Island superior court rules of civil procedure govern subpoenas issued under § 9-18.1-3.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 190, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 241, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18.1 - Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act › Section 9-18.1-6. - Application to court.

§ 9-18.1-6. Application to court.
An application to the court for a protective order or to enforce, quash, or modify a subpoena issued under § 9-18.1-3 shall comply with the rules or statutes of this state and be submitted to the superior court in the county in which discovery is to be conducted.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 190, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 241, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18.1 - Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act › Section 9-18.1-7. - Uniformity of application and construction.

§ 9-18.1-7. Uniformity of application and construction.
In applying and construing this uniform act, consideration shall be given to the need to promote uniformity of the law with respect to its subject matter among states that enact it.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 190, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 241, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-18.1 - Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act › Section 9-18.1-8. - Application to pending actions.

§ 9-18.1-8. Application to pending actions.
This chapter applies to requests for discovery in cases pending on July 15, 2019.
History of Section.
P.L. 2019, ch. 190, § 1; P.L. 2019, ch. 241, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-1, 9-19-2. - Repealed.

§ 9-19-1, 9-19-2. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 401; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 49; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 49; P.L. 1928, ch. 1161, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 538, § 3; P.L. 1940, ch. 939, § 7; G.L. 1956, §§ 9-19-1, 9-19-2; Repealed by P.L. 1987, ch. 381, § 5. Section 7 of P.L. 1987, ch. 381 provides that the repeal of this section by that Act shall take effect on the date that Rhode Island Rules of Evidence adopted by the Supreme Court take effect. Those Rules took effect October 1, 1987.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-3. - Judicial notice of law of other states.

§ 9-19-3. Judicial notice of law of other states.
Every court of this state shall take judicial notice of the common law and statutes of every state, territory, and other jurisdiction of the United States.
History of Section.
P.L. 1940, ch. 939, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-4. - Information as to foreign law.

§ 9-19-4. Information as to foreign law.
The court may inform itself of such laws in such manner as it may deem proper, and the court may call upon counsel to aid it in obtaining the information.
History of Section.
P.L. 1940, ch. 939, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-5. - Determination made by court — Review.

§ 9-19-5. Determination made by court — Review.
The determination of foreign laws shall be made by the court and not by the jury, and shall be reviewable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1940, ch. 939, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-5; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 21.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-6. - Evidence of foreign law.

§ 9-19-6. Evidence of foreign law.
Any party may also present to the trial court any admissible evidence of foreign laws, but, to enable a party to offer evidence of the law in another jurisdiction or to ask that judicial notice be taken thereof, reasonable notice shall be given to the adverse parties either in the pleadings or otherwise.
History of Section.
P.L. 1940, ch. 939, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-6; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 21.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-7. - Law of foreign countries.

§ 9-19-7. Law of foreign countries.
The law of a jurisdiction other than those referred to in § 9-19-3 shall be an issue for the court, but shall not be subject to the foregoing provisions concerning judicial notice.
History of Section.
P.L. 1940, ch. 939, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-8. - Uniformity of construction.

§ 9-19-8. Uniformity of construction.
Sections 9-19-2 — 9-19-7 shall be so interpreted and construed as to effectuate their general purpose to make uniform the law of those states which enact them.
History of Section.
P.L. 1940, ch. 1939, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-9. - Repealed.

§ 9-19-9. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 54; P.L. 1915, ch. 1259, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 55; G.L. 1938, ch. 538, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-9; Repealed by P.L. 1987, ch. 381, § 5. Section 7 of P.L. 1987, ch. 381 provides that the repeal of this section by that Act shall take effect on the date that Rhode Island Rules of Evidence adopted by the Supreme Court take effect. Those Rules took effect October 1, 1987.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-10. - Entries and memoranda of decedent introduced for successor in title to decedent.

§ 9-19-10. Entries and memoranda of decedent introduced for successor in title to decedent.
Whenever the entries and written memoranda of a deceased person would be admissible in favor of his or her representatives, such entries and memoranda may be admitted in favor of any person claiming title under or from the decedent.
History of Section.
G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 55; P.L. 1915, ch. 1259, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 56; G.L. 1938, ch. 538, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-11. - Repealed.

§ 9-19-11. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 57; P.L. 1927, ch. 1048, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 538, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-11; Repealed by P.L. 1987, ch. 381, § 5. Section 7 of P.L. 1987, ch. 381 provides that the repeal of this section by that Act shall take effect on the date that Rhode Island Rules of Evidence adopted by the Supreme Court took effect. Those Rules take effect October 1, 1987.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-12. - Statements and releases by patients in personal injury cases.

§ 9-19-12. Statements and releases by patients in personal injury cases.
Except as provided below, no settlement or general release or statement in writing signed by any person confined in a hospital or sanitarium as a patient with reference to any personal injuries for which the person is confined in the hospital or sanitarium shall be admissible in evidence, used or referred to in any manner, at the trial of any action to recover damages for personal injuries or consequential damages, so called, resulting therefrom, which statement, settlement, or general release was obtained within fifteen (15) days after injuries were sustained, and the settlement or release shall be null and void unless at least five (5) days prior to the obtaining or procuring of the general release or statement the injured party had signified in writing his or her willingness that the general release or statement be given. This section shall not apply to statements or releases obtained by police officers or inspectors of motor vehicles in the performance of their duty, from members of the family of the person, or by or on behalf of his or her attorney.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3712, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-12.1. - Releases for personal injuries.

§ 9-19-12.1. Releases for personal injuries.
No person, firm, or corporation whose interest is adverse to that of a person receiving personal injuries as a result of a tortious act shall negotiate any contract, written or oral, or any settlement to release the person, firm, or corporation from liability, within thirty (30) days from the date of the tortious act. Any contract settlement or release obtained in violation of this section shall be voidable at the option of the releasor upon restoration of the consideration.
History of Section.
P.L. 1962, ch. 207, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-13, 9-19-14. - Repealed.

§ 9-19-13, 9-19-14. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 49; P.L. 1928, ch. 1161, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 538, §§ 1, 15; P.L. 1948, ch. 2087, § 1; G.L. 1956, §§ 9-19-13, 9-19-14; P.L. 1961, ch. 148, § 1; P.L. 1972, ch. 138, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1987, ch. 381, § 5. Section 7 of P.L. 1987, ch. 381 provides that the repeal of this section by that Act shall take effect on the date that Rhode Island Rules of Evidence adopted by the Supreme Court take effect. Those Rules took effect October 1, 1987.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-15. - Stenographic transcripts of testimony in superior court.

§ 9-19-15. Stenographic transcripts of testimony in superior court.
Transcripts from stenographic notes of testimony duly taken in the superior court or the family court, under statutory authority, verified by the certificate of the stenographer taking the testimony, and allowed by the court, shall be admissible as evidence that the testimony was given, whenever proof of the testimony is otherwise competent.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 394; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 42; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 52; G.L. 1938, ch. 538, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-15; P.L. 1961, ch. 73, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-16 - — 9-19-18. Repealed.

§ 9-19-16 — 9-19-18. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, §§ 398-400; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, §§ 46-48; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, §§ 46-48; G.L. 1938, ch. 538, §§ 7, 13, 14; P.L. 1946, ch. 1770, § 1; P.L. 1948, ch. 2003, § 1; G.L. 1956, §§ 9-19-16 — 9-19-18; Repealed by P.L. 1987, ch. 381, § 5. Section 7 of P.L. 1987, ch. 381 provides that the repeal of this section by that Act shall take effect on the date that Rhode Island Rules of Evidence adopted by the Supreme Court take effect. Those Rules took effect October 1, 1987.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-19. - Finding of presumed death under federal Missing Persons Act.

§ 9-19-19. Finding of presumed death under federal Missing Persons Act.
A written finding of presumed death, made by the secretary of the army, the secretary of the navy, the secretary of the air force, or other officer or employee of the United States authorized to make such finding, pursuant to the federal Missing Persons Act, 5 U.S.C. § 5561 et seq., as now or hereafter amended, or a duly certified copy of such finding shall be received in any court, office, or other place in this state as prima facie evidence of the death of the person therein found to be dead, and the date, circumstances, and place of his or her disappearance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1946, ch. 1709, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-19.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-20. - Other documents under Missing Persons Act.

§ 9-19-20. Other documents under Missing Persons Act.
An official written report or record, or duly certified copy thereof, that a person is missing, missing in action, interned in a foreign country, or beleaguered, besieged, or captured by a hostile force, or is dead, or is alive, made by any officer or employee of the United States authorized by the act referred to in § 9-19-19 or by any other law of the United States to make the report or record shall be received in any court, office, or other place in this state as prima facie evidence that the person is missing, missing in action, interned in a foreign country, or beleaguered, besieged, or captured by a hostile force, or is dead, or is alive, as the case may be.
History of Section.
P.L. 1946, ch. 1709, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-20.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-21. - Prima facie validity of federal findings and certified copies.

§ 9-19-21. Prima facie validity of federal findings and certified copies.
For the purposes of §§ 9-19-19 and 9-19-20, any finding, report, or record, or duly certified copy thereof, purporting to have been signed by such an officer or employee of the United States as is described in those sections, shall prima facie be deemed to have been signed and issued by such an officer or employee pursuant to law, and the person signing the report or record shall prima facie be deemed to have acted within the scope of his or her authority. If a copy purports to have been certified by a person authorized by law to certify the report or record, the certified copy shall be prima facie evidence of his or her authority so to certify.
History of Section.
P.L. 1946, ch. 1709, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-21.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-22. - Severability.

§ 9-19-22. Severability.
If any provision of §§ 9-19-19 — 9-19-21 or the application thereof to any person or circumstance be held invalid, that invalidity shall not affect any other provision or application of those sections which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of those sections are declared to be severable.
History of Section.
P.L. 1946, ch. 1709, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-22.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-23, 9-19-24. - Repealed.

§ 9-19-23, 9-19-24. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, §§ 402, 403; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, §§ 50, 51; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, §§ 50, 51; G.L. 1938, ch. 538, §§ 8, 9; G.L. 1956, §§ 9-19-23, 9-19-24; Repealed by P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 32, effective January 10, 1966.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-19 - Evidence › Section 9-19-25. - Illegally seized evidence inadmissible.

§ 9-19-25. Illegally seized evidence inadmissible.
In the trial of any action in any court of this state, no evidence shall be admissible where the evidence shall have been procured by, through, or in consequence of any illegal search and seizure as prohibited in § 6 of article 1 of the constitution of the state of Rhode Island.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 538, § 16; P.L. 1955, ch. 3590, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-19-25.