reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-10 - Selection of Jury › Section 9-10-13. - Alternate jurors.

§ 9-10-13. Alternate jurors.
Whenever in the opinion of the court the trial of a civil case before a jury is likely to be a protracted one, the court may, immediately after the jury is impaneled and sworn, direct the calling of one or two (2) additional jurors, to be known as alternate jurors. Alternate jurors shall be drawn from the same source, and in the same manner, and have the same qualifications, as regular jurors, and be subject to examination and challenge as such jurors, except that each party shall be allowed one peremptory challenge for each alternate juror. The alternate jurors shall take the proper oath or affirmation and shall be seated near the regular jurors with equal facilities for seeing and hearing the proceedings in the cause and shall attend at all times upon the trial of the cause in company with the regular jurors. They shall obey all orders and admonitions of the court, and if the regular jurors are ordered to be kept in the custody of an officer during the trial of the cause, the alternate jurors shall also be kept with the other jurors and, except as hereinafter provided, shall be discharged upon the final submission of the cause to the jury. If, before the final submission of the cause, a regular juror dies or is discharged, the court shall order the alternate juror, if there is but one, to take his or her place in the jury box. If there are two (2) alternate jurors, the court shall select one by lot, who shall then take his or her place in the jury box. After an alternate juror is in the jury box he or she shall be subject to the same rules as a regular juror.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 506, § 32½; P.L. 1940, ch. 936, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-10-13; P.L. 1972, ch. 169, § 5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-10 - Selection of Jury › Section 9-10-14. - Court examination of prospective jurors.

§ 9-10-14. Court examination of prospective jurors.
The court shall, on motion of either party in a suit, examine on oath a person who is called as a juror therein, to know whether he or she is related to either party, has any interest in the cause, or has expressed or formed an opinion or is sensible of any bias or prejudice therein; and the party objecting to the juror may introduce any other competent evidence in support of the objection. The court may permit the parties or their attorneys to conduct the examination of the person called as a juror. If it appears to the court that the juror does not stand indifferent in the cause, another shall be called in his or her stead for the trial of that cause, but at no time shall counsel for either party be precluded from examining prospective jurors.
History of Section.
P.L. 1920, ch. 1948, § 37; G.L. 1923, ch. 329, § 37; G.L. 1938, ch. 506, § 35; G.L. 1938, ch. 506, § 33; P.L. 1939, ch. 700, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-10-14; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 21; P.L. 1970, ch. 235, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-10 - Selection of Jury › Section 9-10-15. - Residence or tax payment in town not ground for challenge.

§ 9-10-15. Residence or tax payment in town not ground for challenge.
In complaints, indictments, and penal actions for the recovery of any sum of money or other thing forfeited, it shall not be cause for challenge to a juror that he or she resides or is liable to pay taxes in any town which may be benefited thereby.
History of Section.
P.L. 1920, ch. 1948, § 32; G.L. 1923, ch. 329, § 32; G.L. 1938, ch. 506, § 30; G.L. 1938, ch. 506, § 28; P.L. 1939, ch. 700, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-10-15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-10 - Selection of Jury › Section 9-10-16. - State citizenship not ground for challenge.

§ 9-10-16. State citizenship not ground for challenge.
No person shall be disqualified to act as a juror in any case in which the state is directly or indirectly a party by reason of his or her being a citizen thereof.
History of Section.
P.L. 1920, ch. 1948, § 35; G.L. 1923, ch. 329, § 35; G.L. 1938, ch. 506, § 33; G.L. 1938, ch. 506, § 31; P.L. 1939, ch. 700, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-10-16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-10 - Selection of Jury › Section 9-10-17. - Waiver of objection to juror by silence.

§ 9-10-17. Waiver of objection to juror by silence.
If a party knows of any objection to a juror before the case is opened to the jury and omits to suggest it to the court, he or she shall not afterwards make the objection, unless by express leave of the court.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 348; G.L. 1909, ch. 291, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 341, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 507, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-10-17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-10 - Selection of Jury › Section 9-10-18. - Peremptory challenges.

§ 9-10-18. Peremptory challenges.
Either party in a civil action may, before the opening of the action or proceeding to the jury, challenge in writing, addressed to the clerk of the court, any qualified jurors called for the trial of the cause or proceeding, not exceeding one in three (3), without alleging or showing any cause therefor; and after the objection the challenged jurors shall not sit in the trial of the cause, but other jurors shall be called to take the place of the challenged jurors for the trial of the cause.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 349; G.L. 1909, ch. 291, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 341, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 507, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 9-10-18; P.L. 1972, ch. 169, § 5; P.L. 1977, ch. 156, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-10 - Selection of Jury › Section 9-10-19. - Keeping and disposition of peremptory challenges.

§ 9-10-19. Keeping and disposition of peremptory challenges.
Written objections or challenges, filed under the provisions of § 9-10-18, shall be kept in such place and shall be disposed of in such manner, as the court shall direct.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 350; G.L. 1909, ch. 291, § 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 341, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 507, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 9-10-19.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-10 - Selection of Jury › Section 9-10-20. - Oaths of jurors.

§ 9-10-20. Oaths of jurors.
Grand and petit jurors, before acting as such, shall take the oath prescribed for them in the following terms:
GRAND JURORS OATH
“You severally and solemnly swear (or, affirm) that as members of the grand inquest for the body of the county (or counties) of _______ you will diligently inquire and true presentment make of all such crimes and misdemeanors cognizable by this court as shall come to your knowledge: the state's council, your fellow's and your own, will keep secret: will present no person for envy, hatred or malice: neither will you leave any person unpresented for love, fear, favor, affection or hope of reward: but you will present things truly, as they come to your knowledge, according to the best of your understanding: So help you God. (Or: This affirmation you make and give upon peril of the penalty of perjury.)”
PETIT JURORS OATH IN CRIMINAL CASES
“You swear (or, affirm) that you will well and truly try and true deliverance make between the state of Rhode Island and the prisoner (or, defendant) at the bar according to law and the evidence given you: So help you God. (Or: This affirmation you make and give upon peril of the penalty of perjury.)”
PETIT JURORS OATH IN CIVIL CASES
“You swear (or, affirm) that in all cases between party and party, that shall be committed to you, you will give a true verdict therein, according to law and the evidence given you: So help you God. (Or: This affirmation you make and give upon peril of the penalty of perjury.)”
History of Section.
P.L. 1920, ch. 1948, § 33; G.L. 1923, ch. 329, § 33; G.L. 1938, ch. 506, § 31; G.L. 1938, ch. 506, § 29; P.L. 1939, ch. 700, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-10-20; P.L. 2021, ch. 77, § 6, effective June 23, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 78, § 6, effective June 23, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-10 - Selection of Jury › Section 9-10-21. - Exemption of juror from process.

§ 9-10-21. Exemption of juror from process.
The person and estate of every juror attending any court in this state shall be exempt from all process in any civil action during the period of his or her attendance on the court and for three (3) days next before the time he or she shall be required to appear and for the three (3) days next after he or she shall be discharged.
History of Section.
P.L. 1920, ch. 1948, § 30; G.L. 1923, ch. 329, § 30; G.L. 1938, ch. 506, § 28; G.L. 1938, ch. 506, § 26; P.L. 1939, ch. 700, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-10-21.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-10 - Selection of Jury › Section 9-10-22. - Service of forbidden process void.

§ 9-10-22. Service of forbidden process void.
The service of all process contrary to § 9-10-21 shall be void.
History of Section.
P.L. 1920, ch. 1948, § 31; G.L. 1923, ch. 329, § 31; G.L. 1938, ch. 506, § 29; G.L. 1938, ch. 506, § 27; P.L. 1939, ch. 700, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-10-22.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-11 - Superior Court Practice › Section 9-11-1 - — 9-11-6. Repealed.

§ 9-11-1 — 9-11-6. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, §§ 277 to 281, 283; G.L. 1909, ch. 287, §§ 1-5, 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 337, §§ 1-5, 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 526, §§ 1-5, 7; G.L. 1956, §§ 9-11-1 — 9-11-6; Repealed by P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 23, effective January 10, 1966. A substantial part of the procedure of a civil nature in the superior court is now governed by the Rules of Civil Procedure and Practice for the Superior Court contained in Volume 2B.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-11 - Superior Court Practice › Section 9-11-7. - Trials without jury.

§ 9-11-7. Trials without jury.
In every action at law originally brought in the superior court or removed to the superior court on appeal from a district court, if neither party claims a jury trial in accordance with applicable procedural rules, then jury trial as of right shall be deemed to be waived in the case and trial shall be had in such form as the court shall determine in accordance with applicable procedural rules.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 282; G.L. 1909, ch. 287, § 6; G.L. 1923, ch. 337, § 6; P.L. 1929, ch. 1327, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 526, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 9-11-7; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 22.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-11 - Superior Court Practice › Section 9-11-8. - County in which questions heard and disposed of — Intervention of jury.

§ 9-11-8. County in which questions heard and disposed of — Intervention of jury.
All questions of pleading or practice, not arising in the trial of the case, all motions, and all defaulted cases in the superior court shall be heard and disposed of by the court for the county in which the action is pending; provided, that all such matters arising in Newport, Kent, or Washington county may, when the court is not sitting in the county, be heard and disposed of in Providence, and, if, after judgment is rendered on motion or default, damages are to be assessed, they shall be assessed by the court with the intervention of a jury unless cause be shown why there should be no intervention of a jury.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 284; G.L. 1909, ch. 287, § 8; G.L. 1923, ch. 337, § 8; G.L. 1938, ch. 526, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 9-11-8; P.L. 1958, ch. 61, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 22.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-12 - District Court Practice › Section 9-12-1, 9-12-2. - Repealed.

§ 9-12-1, 9-12-2. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, §§ 266, 267; G.L. 1909, ch. 286, §§ 1, 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 336, §§ 1, 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 525, §§ 1, 2; Repealed by P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 25, effective January 10, 1966.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-12 - District Court Practice › Section 9-12-3. - Special complaint where whole amount exceeds court jurisdiction.

§ 9-12-3. Special complaint where whole amount exceeds court jurisdiction.
In all actions in the district court where the whole amount is more than five thousand dollars ($5,000) and the balance stated by the plaintiff does not exceed that sum, he or she may bring his or her action for such balance, and shall so state specially in his or her complaint, and he or she shall, on the filing of the complaint, or afterwards on motion, file his or her account of debt and credit in the action.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 275; G.L. 1909, ch. 286, § 10; G.L. 1923, ch. 336, § 10; P.L. 1929, ch. 1331, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 525, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 9-12-3; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 24; P.L. 1969, ch. 239, § 9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-12 - District Court Practice › Section 9-12-4. - Action on instrument originally exceeding jurisdictional amount.

§ 9-12-4. Action on instrument originally exceeding jurisdictional amount.
In all actions for the recovery of money due on any note or other instrument in writing, which was given originally for five thousand dollars ($5,000) or a larger sum, and which by indorsement or by acknowledgment is reduced to five thousand dollars ($5,000) or under, including principal and interest, suit may be brought before the district court as provided in § 9-12-3, and judgment may be entered thereon, and execution awarded, in the same manner as though the note or other instrument in writing had been originally given for the sum to which the note or other instrument in writing has been reduced.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 276; G.L. 1909, ch. 286, § 11; G.L. 1923, ch. 336, § 11; P.L. 1929, ch. 1331, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 525, § 11; G.L. 1956, § 9-12-4; P.L. 1969, ch. 239, § 9; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 80.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-12 - District Court Practice › Section 9-12-5 - — 9-12-9. Repealed.

§ 9-12-5 — 9-12-9. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, §§ 268 — 271; G.L. 1909, ch. 286, §§ 3 — 6; G.L. 1909, ch. 286, § 12; P.L. 1920, ch. 1935, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 336, §§ 3 — 6, 12; G.L. 1938, ch. 525, §§ 3 — 6, 12; Repealed by P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 25, effective January 10, 1966.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-12 - District Court Practice › Section 9-12-10. - Claim of appeal of superior court.

§ 9-12-10. Claim of appeal of superior court.
Except as otherwise provided, in all civil cases in the district court, any party may cause the case to be removed for trial on all questions of law and fact to the superior court for the county in which division the suit is pending by claiming an appeal from the judgment of the district court, in writing, filed with the clerk of the division within two (2) days, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, after the judgment is entered; provided, that the party claiming the appeal, at the time of claiming the appeal, shall pay to the clerk all costs, including an attorney’s fee of fifty dollars ($50.00), for the party or parties adversely interested in the judgment, to be paid by the clerk to the attorney for the adverse party. The attorney’s fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) shall be divided equally among the attorneys for the parties adversely interested when more than one adverse party is involved; and provided, further, that costs shall not be taxed, exclusive of the attorney’s fee, at a sum not less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00), in addition to a technology surcharge assessed in accordance with § 8-15-11.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 272; G.L. 1909, ch. 286, § 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 336, § 7; P.L. 1929, ch. 1326, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 525, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 9-12-10; P.L. 1956, ch. 3751, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 24; P.L. 1969, ch. 239, § 9; P.L. 1976, ch. 140, § 3; P.L. 1977, ch. 18, § 1; P.L. 1980, ch. 99, § 1; P.L. 1983, ch. 55, § 1; P.L. 2014, ch. 34, § 3; P.L. 2014, ch. 42, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-12 - District Court Practice › Section 9-12-10.1. - Claim of appeal to superior court in landlord tenant actions.

§ 9-12-10.1. Claim of appeal to superior court in landlord tenant actions.
In any civil action pursuant to chapter 18 of title 34, in the district court or other appropriate court, any party may cause the case to be removed for trial on all questions of law and fact to the superior court for the county in which division the suit is pending, by claiming an appeal from the judgment of the district or other appropriate court, in writing, filed with the clerk of the division within five (5) days after the judgment is entered; provided, that the party claiming the appeal at the time of claiming the appeal, shall pay to the clerk all costs, including an attorney’s fee of fifty dollars ($50.00) for the party or parties adversely interested in the judgment, to be paid by the clerk to the attorney for the adverse party; provided, further, that costs shall not be taxed, exclusive of the attorney’s fee, at a sum less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00), in addition to a technology surcharge assessed in accordance with § 8-15-11.
History of Section.
P.L. 1986, ch. 200, § 6; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 80; P.L. 2014, ch. 34, § 3; P.L. 2014, ch. 42, § 3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-12 - District Court Practice › Section 9-12-11. - Transmission of papers to superior court — Assignment for trial.

§ 9-12-11. Transmission of papers to superior court — Assignment for trial.
If an appeal is claimed, the case and the papers shall, on the next court day of the district court, be certified and forthwith transmitted to the superior court for the county wherein the division is situated, and the case shall be in order for assignment for trial in accordance with applicable procedural rules after ten (10) days from the certification, but if the case is for tenement let, or held at will or by sufferance, and including leases of land, it shall at once be certified to the superior court, and shall be in order for assignment forthwith, and shall take precedence of other matters on the calendar.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 273; G.L. 1909, ch. 286, § 8; G.L. 1923, ch. 336, § 8; P.L. 1929, ch. 1331, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 525, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 9-12-11; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 24; P.L. 1969, ch. 239, § 9; P.L. 1986, ch. 157, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-12 - District Court Practice › Section 9-12-12. - Appeal bond of defendant in action for possession of commercial or other tenements let.

§ 9-12-12. Appeal bond of defendant in action for possession of commercial or other tenements let.
Every defendant in an action for the possession of commercial or other tenements let or held at will or sufferance, other than actions pursuant to chapter 18 of title 34, claiming an appeal shall, in addition to making the payments required by § 9-12-10, give bond to the plaintiff, with one or more sureties satisfactory to the district court, to pay all rent or other money due, or which may become due pending the action under the tenancy, and such damages and costs as may be awarded against him or her, the bond to be filed with the clerk of the district court, or person acting as clerk, at the time of claiming an appeal.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 494, § 2; P.L. 1989, ch. 285, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-12 - District Court Practice › Section 9-12-13. - Costs in superior court.

§ 9-12-13. Costs in superior court.
Where an appeal is claimed by the plaintiff under the provisions of § 9-12-10, and the judgment in the superior court, if for the plaintiff, does not exceed the amount awarded him or her in the district court, he or she shall recover no costs, and shall also pay the defendant’s costs, and if on the plaintiff’s claim of appeal the judgment, as in the district court, shall be for the defendant, the defendant shall be entitled to double costs; and if the defendant claims an appeal and the judgment is for the plaintiff for the same or a greater amount than that awarded by the district court, the defendant shall be taxed double costs. In cases involving multiple plaintiffs or multiple defendants, costs, including double costs, shall be taxed in the discretion of the court, and the costs may be taxed against a coparty as well as against the opposing party or parties.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 272; G.L. 1909, ch. 286, § 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 336, § 7; P.L. 1929, ch. 1326, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 525, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 9-12-13; P.L. 1956, ch. 3751, § 1; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 24.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-13 - Notices and Stipulations › Section 9-13-1. - Serving notice on adverse party’s attorney.

§ 9-13-1. Serving notice on adverse party’s attorney.
Whenever it is provided that notice in writing shall be given to any party represented by an attorney, the service shall be made upon the attorney unless service upon the party himself or herself is ordered by the court. Service upon the attorney or upon a party shall be made by delivering a copy to him or her or by mailing it to him or her at his or her last known address or, if no address is known, by leaving it with the clerk of the court. Delivery of a copy within this section means: handing it to the person to be served; or leaving it at his or her office with his or her clerk or other person in charge thereof; or, if there is no one in charge, leaving it in a conspicuous place therein; or if the office is closed or the person to be served has no office, leaving it at his or her dwelling house or usual place of abode with some person of suitable age and discretion then residing therein. Service by mail is complete upon mailing.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 345; G.L. 1909, ch. 290, § 4; G.L. 1923, ch. 340, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 527, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-13-1; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 26.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-13 - Notices and Stipulations › Section 9-13-2. - Extension of time for proceedings by consent.

§ 9-13-2. Extension of time for proceedings by consent.
The parties to a cause, by consent in writing, may extend the time of pleading or the periods within which proceedings in court are prescribed to be taken.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 347; G.L. 1909, ch. 290, § 6; G.L. 1923, ch. 340, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 527, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 9-13-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-14 - Equity Practice › Section 9-14-1. - Statutory proceedings following course of equity.

§ 9-14-1. Statutory proceedings following course of equity.
Subject to applicable procedural rules, all petitions for the enforcement of mechanics’ liens, petitions for divorce, and statutory proceedings so prescribed by statute, shall follow the course of equity so far as it is applicable.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 304; G.L. 1909, ch. 289, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 339, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 528, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-14-1; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 27.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-14 - Equity Practice › Section 9-14-2 - — 9-14-8. Repealed.

§ 9-14-2 — 9-14-8. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, §§ 305 — 309, 318, 319; G.L. 1909, ch. 289, §§ 2 — 6, 15, 16; G.L. 1923, ch. 339, §§ 2 — 6, 15, 16; G.L. 1938, ch. 528, §§ 2 — 6, 15, 16; Repealed by P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 28, effective January 10, 1966.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-14 - Equity Practice › Section 9-14-9 - — 9-14-10. Repealed.

§ 9-14-9 — 9-14-10. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 317; G.L. 1909, ch. 289, § 14; G.L. 1923, ch. 339, § 14; G.L. 1938, ch. 528, § 14; G.L. 1956, §§ 9-14-9, 9-14-10; P.L. 1966, ch. 1, § 8); Repealed by P.L. 1979, ch. 373, § 5. For present law, see Rule 13 of the Rules of Procedure for Domestic Relations.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-14 - Equity Practice › Section 9-14-11 - — 9-14-24. Repealed.

§ 9-14-11 — 9-14-24. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, §§ 310-315, 320, 322-324, 327, 354; P.L. 1907, ch. 1459, § 9; G.L. 1909, ch. 289, §§ 7-12, 17, 19-21, 24; G.L. 1909, ch. 291, § 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 339, §§ 7-12, 17, 19-21, 24; G.L. 1923, ch. 341, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 528, §§ 7-12, 17, 19-21, 24, 27, 28; P.L. 1951, ch. 2745, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 28, effective January 10, 1966.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-14 - Equity Practice › Section 9-14-25. - Expenses and counsel fees paid out of decedent’s or trust estate.

§ 9-14-25. Expenses and counsel fees paid out of decedent’s or trust estate.
In any civil action or other proceeding wherein construction of a will or trust deed or any part thereof is asked, there may be allowed to each of the parties defendant brought in by the action or other proceeding, applying therefor, such reasonable sum for expenses and on account of counsel fees as the court in which the case is pending shall deem proper; the allowance shall be taxed as costs in the cause and be paid out of the estate or fund in the hands of the complainant concerning which estate or fund the construction is asked.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 325; G.L. 1909, ch. 289, § 22; G.L. 1923, ch. 339, § 22; G.L. 1938, ch. 528, § 22; G.L. 1956, § 9-14-25; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 27.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-14 - Equity Practice › Section 9-14-26. - Master’s conveyance of property.

§ 9-14-26. Master’s conveyance of property.
If a judgment directs a party to execute a conveyance of land or to deliver deeds or other documents or to perform any other specified acts and the party fails to comply within the time specified, the court may direct the act to be done at the cost of the disobedient party by a master in chancery or some other person appointed by the court, and the act when so done has like effect as if done by the party.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 326; G.L. 1909, ch. 289, § 23; G.L. 1923, ch. 339, § 23; G.L. 1938, ch. 528, § 23; G.L. 1956, § 9-14-26; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 27.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-14 - Equity Practice › Section 9-14-27. - Repealed.

§ 9-14-27. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1923, ch. 339, § 39 P.L. 1929, ch. 1338, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 528, § 25; P.L. 1940, ch. 934, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-14-27; Repealed by P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 28, effective January 10, 1966.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-14 - Equity Practice › Section 9-14-28. - Court rule or order varying forms of process or mode of proceeding.

§ 9-14-28. Court rule or order varying forms of process or mode of proceeding.
The superior court may, by general rule or by special order, vary the forms of process, mode of proceeding, or of decree, heretofore in use, in such manner as may be necessary to carry into effect the provisions of any statute of this state.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 321; G.L. 1909, ch. 289, § 18; G.L. 1923, ch. 339, § 18; G.L. 1938, ch. 528, § 18; G.L. 1956, § 9-14-28.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-15 - Referees, Auditors, and Masters in Chancery › Section 9-15-1. - Reference by agreement of parties.

§ 9-15-1. Reference by agreement of parties.
Any court may permit the parties in any civil action pending therein to enter into a rule of court to refer the action to the decision of one or more referees, to be agreed on by the parties, and also to refer in the same rule any other actions, causes of action, or suits that may exist between them, either jointly or severally, generally or specially.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 406; G.L. 1909, ch. 293, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 343, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 532, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-15-1; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 29.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-15 - Referees, Auditors, and Masters in Chancery › Section 9-15-2. - Reference without action or suit brought.

§ 9-15-2. Reference without action or suit brought.
Though no action or suit is brought or pending, as provided in § 9-15-1, the district court may permit any persons or corporations who have any cause or causes of action not following the course of equity and the superior court may permit any persons or corporations who have any cause or causes of action, existing between them, to enter into a rule of court to refer the cause or causes of action to the decision of one or more referees, as provided in § 9-15-1, either jointly or severally, generally or specially; provided, that no rule entered into in the district court under the provisions of this chapter shall be made for any claim or claims which exceed in amount the sum of five thousand dollars ($5,000).
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 407; G.L. 1909, ch. 293, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 343, § 2; P.L. 1929, ch. 1331, § 8; G.L. 1938, ch. 532, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 9-15-2; P.L. 1969, ch. 239, § 10; P.L. 1997, ch. 326, § 81.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-15 - Referees, Auditors, and Masters in Chancery › Section 9-15-3. - Certification of rule to another county.

§ 9-15-3. Certification of rule to another county.
Leave may be given under § 9-15-2, in the superior court, to enter the rule in any county, to be certified to the county where the matter more properly belongs.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 408; G.L. 1909, ch. 293, § 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 343, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 532, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 9-15-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-15 - Referees, Auditors, and Masters in Chancery › Section 9-15-4. - Contents and effect of agreement of reference — Majority report of referees.

§ 9-15-4. Contents and effect of agreement of reference — Majority report of referees.
The parties to any rule shall agree upon the mode of procedure, the defraying of expenses, the time when and manner in which the referees shall make their report, and the time and manner of issuing execution on the judgment or decree which the court shall enter, upon the coming in of the report; and every such agreement shall be conclusive upon the parties and upon their heirs, executors, administrators, and successors, and, if involving real estate, when notice thereof is duly recorded, upon their assigns, and a majority report of referees shall be binding and conclusive.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 409; G.L. 1909, ch. 293, § 4; G.L. 1923, ch. 343, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 532, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 9-15-4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-15 - Referees, Auditors, and Masters in Chancery › Section 9-15-5. - Oath of referee.

§ 9-15-5. Oath of referee.
Every referee, before he or she proceeds to the business of the reference, shall be sworn to perform his or her duties faithfully and impartially as referee.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 412; G.L. 1909, ch. 293, § 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 343, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 532, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 9-15-5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-15 - Referees, Auditors, and Masters in Chancery › Section 9-15-6. - Judgment and execution on report.

§ 9-15-6. Judgment and execution on report.
Upon the coming in of the report of referees, the court shall enter judgment or decree thereon and in conformity thereto and issue execution accordingly.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 410; G.L. 1909, ch. 293, § 5; G.L. 1923, ch. 343, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 532, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 9-15-6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-15 - Referees, Auditors, and Masters in Chancery › Section 9-15-7. - Discharge or recommission of rule.

§ 9-15-7. Discharge or recommission of rule.
The court may, at any time in its discretion, on motion of either party, discharge a rule or recommit a rule and report to the same referees, or, with consent of the parties, to other referees; but a rule shall remain in full force until so discharged, and shall be continued without continuance fees, until report shall be made thereon.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 411; G.L. 1909, ch. 293, § 6; G.L. 1923, ch. 343, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 532, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 9-15-7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-15 - Referees, Auditors, and Masters in Chancery › Section 9-15-8. - Recording of decisions involving real estate.

§ 9-15-8. Recording of decisions involving real estate.
Whenever any rule, entered into under the provisions of this chapter, shall concern the title to real estate, the referees shall report their proceedings, with a plat of the real estate in question showing the title as affected by their decisions; and if their report is finally received, a copy of the report and plat, certified by the clerk of the court where the rule is entered, shall be recorded in the records of land evidence in the town or city in which the estate shall be, and the expense of the record shall be a part of the costs of the party against whom the referees shall have decided, unless otherwise agreed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 414; G.L. 1909, ch. 293, § 9; G.L. 1923, ch. 343, § 9; G.L. 1938, ch. 532, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 9-15-8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-15 - Referees, Auditors, and Masters in Chancery › Section 9-15-9 - — 9-15-17. Repealed.

§ 9-15-9 — 9-15-17. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, §§ 415 — 423; G.L. 1909, ch. 293, §§ 10 — 18; G.L. 1938, ch. 532, §§ 10 — 18; Repealed by P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 30, effective January 10, 1966.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-15 - Referees, Auditors, and Masters in Chancery › Section 9-15-18. - Summons of witnesses and administration of oaths.

§ 9-15-18. Summons of witnesses and administration of oaths.
Referees and auditors shall have power to administer oaths in all matters tried before them, and also power to compel witnesses to attend and give testimony under oath in matters tried before them, in the same manner and by a similar process as courts of record, and any summons for witnesses may be issued and signed by any referee or auditor, or by any clerk of court, notary public, or justice of the peace.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 413; G.L. 1909, ch. 293, § 8; G.L. 1923, ch. 343, § 8; G.L. 1938, ch. 532, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 9-15-18.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-15 - Referees, Auditors, and Masters in Chancery › Section 9-15-19. - Appointment of masters in chancery — Rules and orders.

§ 9-15-19. Appointment of masters in chancery — Rules and orders.
The superior court, by a majority of the justices thereof, shall appoint in each county one or more standing masters in chancery to hold office during the pleasure of the court; and may make all such rules and orders, not contrary to law, with regard to proceedings before masters in chancery, their reports, and exceptions to and hearings on them, as to it shall seem expedient.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 424; G.L. 1909, ch. 293, § 19; G.L. 1923, ch. 343, § 19; G.L. 1938, ch. 532, § 19; G.L. 1956, § 9-15-19.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-15 - Referees, Auditors, and Masters in Chancery › Section 9-15-20. - Protection of parties and witnesses in referred matters.

§ 9-15-20. Protection of parties and witnesses in referred matters.
Masters in chancery, auditors, and referees shall have the same power to issue writs of protection to parties and witnesses in matters pending before them as is possessed by the courts from which they derive their appointment, and the signing of such writs by any one master, auditor, or referee, who has been duly sworn, shall be sufficient.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 425; G.L. 1909, ch. 293, § 20; G.L. 1923, ch. 343, § 20; G.L. 1938, ch. 532, § 20; G.L. 1956, § 9-15-20.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-15 - Referees, Auditors, and Masters in Chancery › Section 9-15-21. - Stenographic reports and transcripts.

§ 9-15-21. Stenographic reports and transcripts.
Masters in chancery, auditors, and referees may employ stenographers to report and transcribe the testimony taken in causes referred to them, and the cost of the reports and transcripts shall be allowed as part of the costs.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 426; G.L. 1909, ch. 293, § 21; G.L. 1923, ch. 343, § 21; G.L. 1938, ch. 532, § 21; G.L. 1956, § 9-15-21.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-16 - View by Jury › Section 9-16-1. - Court order for view.

§ 9-16-1. Court order for view.
In all cases in which it shall seem advisable to the court, on request of either party, a view by the jury may be ordered; and in all such cases, the court shall regulate the proceedings at the view and, in its discretion, accompany the jury.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 355; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 508, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-16-1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-16 - View by Jury › Section 9-16-2. - Expenses of view.

§ 9-16-2. Expenses of view.
To entitle himself or herself to a view, the party moving therefor shall advance such reasonable sum of money to the sheriff, to defray the expenses of the jury on the view, as the court shall order, and the amount of the expenses shall be taxed against the adverse party, if he or she who advanced the expenses shall recover costs in the suit.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 356; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 508, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 9-16-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-1. - Form of subpoena.

§ 9-17-1. Form of subpoena.
The form of subpoena to a witness shall be substantially as follows:
Sc.
To ..................... of ................ Greeting:
You are hereby required, in the name of the state of Rhode Island, to make your appearance before .......... holden at .......... on the .......... day of .......... to give evidence of what you know relative to an action or plea of .......... then and there are to be heard and tried between .......... plaintiff and .......... defendant.
Hereof fail not, as you will answer your default under the penalty of the law in that behalf made and provided.
Dated at .......... the ....... day of .......... in the year ..... .
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 357; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-1; P.L. 2021, ch. 77, § 7, effective June 23, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 78, § 7, effective June 23, 2021.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-2. - Subpoenas by court clerks and district court judges.

§ 9-17-2. Subpoenas by court clerks and district court judges.
Clerks of court and judges of the district court may issue subpoenas to witnesses in all cases pending in their own or any other court.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 358; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 4; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-2; P.L. 1969, ch. 239, § 11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-3. - Subpoenas issued by other officials.

§ 9-17-3. Subpoenas issued by other officials.
Auditors, referees, masters in chancery, and commissioners may issue subpoenas to witnesses in all cases and matters pending before them, respectively; and justices of the peace and notaries public may issue subpoenas to witnesses in any case, civil or criminal, before any court, and in any matter before any body or person authorized by law to summon witnesses.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 359; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 5; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-4. - Service of subpoena.

§ 9-17-4. Service of subpoena.
A subpoena to a witness shall be served by delivering a copy to him or her.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 361; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 5; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-4; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 31.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-5. - Duty to attend when subpoenaed.

§ 9-17-5. Duty to attend when subpoenaed.
Every witness who shall be duly served with a subpoena in behalf of any party to a suit or proceeding, civil or criminal, and shall have his or her lawful fees tendered to him or her for his or her travel from his or her place of abode to the place at which he or she shall be summoned to attend, and for one day’s attendance, shall be obliged to attend accordingly.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 362; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 8; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 8; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-5.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-5.1. - Subpoena for production of documentary evidence.

§ 9-17-5.1. Subpoena for production of documentary evidence.
(a)
When a subpoena for the production of books, papers, documents, or tangible things is served on a federal or state agency, public utility, national bank, insurance company, financial institution, or a public or private institution of higher education organized under state or federal laws, it shall be deemed a sufficient response to the subpoena if the employee of the entity charged with the responsibility of being custodian of the original records promptly provides the attorney for the party causing service of the subpoena copies of all documents requested by the subpoena. All responses to the subpoena shall contain a certificate which shall be signed before a notary public by the employee of the entity charged with the responsibility of being custodian of the records and shall include a legend substantially to the following effect: “The copies of records for which this certification is made are true and complete reproductions of the original or microfilmed records which are in the possession of (name of entity). The original records were made in the regular course of business, and it was the regular course of (name of entity) to make such records at or near the time of the matter recorded. This certification is given pursuant to Rhode Island general laws § 9-17-5.1 by the custodian of the records in lieu of his or her personal appearance.”
(b)
Documents or records of any federal or state agency, public utility, national bank, financial institution organized under state or federal laws, a public or private institution of higher education, or of a hospital that are susceptible to photostatic reproduction may be proved as to foundation, identity, and authenticity without any preliminary testimony, by use of legible and durable copies, certified in the manner provided in subsection (a) by the employee of the entity charged with the responsibility of being custodian of the originals thereof. The copies may be used in any trial, hearing, deposition, or any other judicial or administrative action or proceeding, whether civil or criminal, in lieu of the original documents or records which, however, the entity shall hold available for inspection and comparison by the court, tribunal, or hearing officer and by the parties and their attorneys of record.
(c)
In the event any of the entities are unable to provide the documents requested in the subpoena due to the timeliness of the service of the subpoena or for other legal reasons, then the employee charged with the responsibility of being custodian of the records for the entity shall set forth in the certificate required hereunder the specific reasons for the noncompliance, the time of service of the subpoena, and if appropriate the time anticipated in complying with the subpoena.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch. 161, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 262, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 188, § 22.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-6. - Tender of fees to certain witnesses not required.

§ 9-17-6. Tender of fees to certain witnesses not required.
A witness summoned in behalf of the state or, in a criminal proceeding, in behalf of a defendant who the court finds is financially unable to pay witness fees shall have no right to have his or her fees paid or tendered to him or her before he or she shall be bound to obey the summons.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 363; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 9; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 9; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-6; P.L. 1972, ch. 169, § 6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-7. - Attachment to compel attendance.

§ 9-17-7. Attachment to compel attendance.
The court before which any witness is duly summoned to appear may compel his or her attendance by writ of attachment, fine him or her not exceeding twenty dollars ($20.00), and order him or her to pay the costs of the attachment and to be committed to the adult correctional institutions until the fine and costs are paid.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 365; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 11; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 11; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-7; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 9 - Courts and Civil Procedure – Procedure Generally › Chapter 9-17 - Witnesses › Section 9-17-8. - Attachment of witness in criminal proceeding.

§ 9-17-8. Attachment of witness in criminal proceeding.
Whenever any witness, duly served with a subpoena to testify in any criminal proceeding at any court, shall neglect to appear according to the tenor of the subpoena, the court may order a writ of attachment to issue against him or her, returnable at such time as the court shall direct, and may direct the writ of attachment to each and all deputy sheriffs, town sergeants, and constables within the state.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 366; G.L. 1909, ch. 292, § 12; G.L. 1923, ch. 342, § 12; G.L. 1938, ch. 537, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 9-17-8; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 18.