reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-1. - Appointment — Powers and duties — Removal.

§ 42-29-1. Appointment — Powers and duties — Removal.
(a)
The director of the department of public safety shall appoint deputy sheriffs and other necessary classifications pursuant to rank structure, subject to the appropriations process. Deputy sheriffs and other employees of the sheriff’s division shall be subject to the supervision of the chief/sheriff appointed by the director of the department of public safety who may assign tasks and functions in order to ensure the proper management of the sheriffs’ division. Any deputy sheriff hired after July 1, 2001, must successfully complete the sheriff academy and any courses deemed necessary at the municipal police training academy prior to assuming the duties of a deputy sheriff. Furthermore, the director of the department of public safety in conjunction with the personnel administrator shall be responsible for promulgating written class specifications with necessary minimum qualifications defined in them. Deputy sheriffs can be removed for just cause by their appointing authority.
(b)
All deputy sheriffs, and the deputy sheriffs shall perform all the duties required and exercise all the powers prescribed in this chapter; chapter 15 of title 5; chapters 5 and 10 of title 9; chapters 5, 10 and 14 of title 10; chapters 8, 31, 34, 36 and 44 of title 11; chapters 4, 5 and 6 of title 12; chapter 22 of title 17; chapters 4 and 6 of title 22; chapter 2 of title 28; chapter 6 of title 35; chapter 8 of title 37; and all other provisions of the general laws and public laws insofar as those powers and duties relate to the deputy sheriffs and as required and prescribed in all other provisions of the general laws and public laws relating to the powers and duties of the sheriffs.
(c)
All resources of the sheriffs shall be transferred to the division of sheriffs within the department of public safety. These resources include, but are not limited to, all positions, property, accounts and other funding pertinent to sheriffs.
(d)(1)
Any reference in the general laws to a chief/sheriff within the division of sheriffs shall be deemed to mean a sworn member of the division of sheriffs.
(2)
Any reference in the general laws to a member of the division of sheriffs shall be deemed to mean a sworn deputy sheriff within the division of sheriffs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1939, ch. 660, § 16; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-1; P.L. 1978, ch. 332, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 422, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 77, art. 29, § 3; P.L. 2011, ch. 151, art. 9, § 20; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-3. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-3. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 189; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-3; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-5. - Record of appointment of deputies.

§ 42-29-5. Record of appointment of deputies.
The appointment of every deputy shall be in writing under the hand and seal of the director of the department of public safety.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 192; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 5; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 5; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 5; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-5; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-6. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-6. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 194; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 7; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 7; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 7; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-6; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-7. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-7. Repealed.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 34; P.L. 1944, ch. 1519, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-7; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-8. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-8. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 195; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 8; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 8; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 8; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-8; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-9. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-9. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 196; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 9; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 9; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-9; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-10. - Removal of deputies by court.

§ 42-29-10. Removal of deputies by court.
Any deputy sheriff may be removed for misdemeanor in office by the Rhode Island supreme court or by the superior court sitting for the county to which the officer belongs, upon complaint made.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 220; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 35; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 35; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 33; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-10; P.L. 2007, ch. 340, § 32.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-11. - Bond of deputies.

§ 42-29-11. Bond of deputies.
Every deputy shall give bond with sufficient surety or sureties to the director of the department of public safety, in a sum satisfactory to the director, not less than five thousand dollars ($5,000), for the faithful execution of his or her office according to law.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 193; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 6; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 6; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-11; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-12. - Action on sheriff’s bond.

§ 42-29-12. Action on sheriff’s bond.
Any person injured by the breach of the bond of any deputy sheriff may, after recovering judgment against the deputy sheriff, his or her executors, or administrators, in an action brought for the default, misfeasance, or nonfeasance of such deputy sheriff, cause a suit to be instituted upon the bond, as set out in § 42-29-11, at his or her own cost, in the name of the general treasurer, to his or her own use.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 197; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 10; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 10; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 10; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-12; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-13. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-13. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 198; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 11; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 11; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 11; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-13; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-14. - Copies of bonds as evidence.

§ 42-29-14. Copies of bonds as evidence.
The general treasurer shall deliver an attested copy of the bond of any deputy sheriff to the director of the department of public safety and deliver a copy of the bond of any deputy sheriff, filed in his or her office, to any person applying and paying the sum of one dollar ($1.00) for the same, and the copy shall be received as evidence in any case, but if the execution of the bond shall be disputed, the court may order the original to be brought into court by a proper subpoena for that purpose, to be served on the general treasurer or deputy sheriff.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 199; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 12; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 12; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 12; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-14; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-15. - Pleadings and effect of judgment on bond.

§ 42-29-15. Pleadings and effect of judgment on bond.
In every suit on such bond, the declaration shall set forth the condition of the bond and assign the breach or breaches relied upon in the action, and judgment in the suit shall not be a bar to any other action on the bond assigning other breaches.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 200; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 13; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 13; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 13; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-16. - Form of judgment for plaintiff on bond.

§ 42-29-16. Form of judgment for plaintiff on bond.
In a suit brought under § 42-29-13, if the plaintiff shall recover, judgment shall be rendered in favor of the general treasurer or sheriff, as the case may be, for the use of the person alleged in the writ and declaration to be injured by the breach or breaches assigned, and that person shall be deemed and taken, for all purposes whatsoever, to be the plaintiff in the suit.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 201; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 14; G.L. 1923, ch. 332; § 14; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 14; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-16; P.L. 1993, ch. 422, § 11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-17. - Judgment for costs against defendant.

§ 42-29-17. Judgment for costs against defendant.
If the defendant shall recover judgment for costs, execution shall issue therefor against the person for whose use the suit is brought, and not against the general treasurer or sheriff, and the surety for costs of such person, if any there be, shall be liable for such costs as such sureties are in other cases.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 202; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 15; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 15; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 15; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-18. - Power to investigate and prosecute offenses.

§ 42-29-18. Power to investigate and prosecute offenses.
Any member of the division of sheriffs may investigate the same and apprehend and bring to justice the person or persons committing such offense, and may make complaint in behalf of the state against such person or persons and may prosecute said complaint to final conviction.
History of Section.
P.L. 1905, ch. 1218, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 16; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 16; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 16; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-18; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-19. - Attendance on general assembly and courts.

§ 42-29-19. Attendance on general assembly and courts.
The director of the department of public safety or his or her designees shall assign deputy sheriffs to attend the general assembly when in session. The director of the department of public safety or his or her designee shall designate such number of deputy sheriffs to attend the session of the supreme court as the chief justice or presiding justice of the superior, district, family and workers’ compensation courts may request and any such deputy sheriff shall be relieved of attendance at the request of the chief justice or the presiding justice of the applicable court.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 203; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 17; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 17; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 17; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-19; P.L. 1952, ch. 3030, § 4; P.L. 1961, ch. 73, § 13; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-20. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-20. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1902, ch. 1005, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 18; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 18; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 18; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-20; P.L. 1969, ch. 239, § 56; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-20.1. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-20.1. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1998, ch. 105, § 6; P.L. 1998, ch. 404, § 6; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-21. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-21. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 206; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 21; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 21; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 19; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-21; P.L. 1958, ch. 97, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-22. - Execution of writs and precepts.

§ 42-29-22. Execution of writs and precepts.
A deputy sheriff shall serve and execute all writs and as directed wherever he or she may be authorized by law, or by special order of the court issuing the writ or precept.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 207; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 22; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 22; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 20; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-22; P.L. 2007, ch. 340, § 32; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-23. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-23. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 210; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 25; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 25; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 23; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-23; P.L. 2007, ch. 340, § 32; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-24. - Service of process on waters.

§ 42-29-24. Service of process on waters.
Any deputy sheriff duly authorized may serve any writ or other process, whether of a civil or criminal nature, within any part of the waters of Narragansett Bay, and within any waters not more than one marine league from the seashore of the state at high-water mark.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 208; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 23; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 23; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 21; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-24; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-25. - Assistance in execution of office.

§ 42-29-25. Assistance in execution of office.
Every deputy sheriff, in the due execution of his or her office, may command all necessary aid and assistance in the execution thereof; and every person who, whenever so required, shall refuse or neglect to give aid and assistance shall be fined not exceeding twenty dollars ($20.00).
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 209; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 24; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 24; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 22; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-25; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-26. - Failure to serve process.

§ 42-29-26. Failure to serve process.
Every deputy sheriff who shall neglect or refuse to serve any process issuing from lawful authority, directed to him or her to serve and execute (having in all civil causes, paid or tendered unto him or her his or her legal fees, if he or she demand the same, for serving and executing such process), shall be liable to the party aggrieved for such damages as he or she may have sustained by such neglect or refusal.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 211; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 26; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 26; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 24; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-26; P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-27. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-27. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 212; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 27; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 27; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 25; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-27; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-28. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-28. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 213; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 28; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 28; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 26; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-28; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-29. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-29. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 214; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 28; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 28; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 27; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-29; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-30. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-30. Repealed.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 217; G.L. 1909, ch. 282, § 32; G.L. 1923, ch. 332, § 32; G.L. 1938, ch. 493, § 30; G.L. 1956, § 42-29-30; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-31. - Repealed.

§ 42-29-31. Repealed.
History of Section.
P.L. 1980, ch. 168, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2012, ch. 324, § 2, effective June 20, 2012.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-29 - Sheriffs › Section 42-29-32. - Restraint of prisoners and detainees.

§ 42-29-32. Restraint of prisoners and detainees.
(a)
No handcuffs, shackles, or other restraints shall be used on a prisoner or detainee known to be in her third trimester of pregnancy during transport to or from a court proceeding, except in accordance with the provisions of § 42-56.3-3(b). If restraints are used, the type of restraint applied and the application of the restraint shall be done in the least restrictive manner necessary.
(b)
If restraints are used on a prisoner or detainee pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, the sheriff shall submit to the director of the department of public safety within five (5) days a report articulating the grounds that dictated the use of restraints. The department shall submit to the general assembly in January of each year a report disclosing the number of prisoners or detainees who were subjected to restraints pursuant to subsection (a) of this section, and the grounds for their use. No individually identifying information of any prisoner or detainee shall be included in the report.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 130, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 192, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-1. - Election of justices by town council.

§ 42-30-1. Election of justices by town council.
The town or city council of any town or city of this state may appoint and fix the terms of justices of the peace, and no justice of the peace shall be elected by the qualified electors in any town or city at any regular or special election held for the purpose of electing officers of the town or city, or otherwise.
History of Section.
P.L. 1938, ch. 2602, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 489, § 14; G.L. 1956, § 42-30-1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-2. - Governor’s appointment power preserved.

§ 42-30-2. Governor’s appointment power preserved.
Nothing in § 42-30-1 shall be construed to impair the authority of the governor to appoint justices of the peace, in accordance with the provisions of § 42-30-5.
History of Section.
P.L. 1938, ch. 2602, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 489, § 15; G.L. 1956, § 42-30-2; P.L. 1988, ch. 84, § 90.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-3. - Appointment of justices.

§ 42-30-3. Appointment of justices.
The governor shall appoint as many justices of the peace for the several towns and cities, as he or she may deem expedient; and every justice of the peace, so appointed, shall hold office for four (4) years.
History of Section.
P.L. 1911, ch. 671, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 30, § 11; P.L. 1925, ch. 642, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 489, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 42-30-3; P.L. 1991, ch. 25, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 381, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 2; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-4. - Certificate of engagement — Term of engagement.

§ 42-30-4. Certificate of engagement — Term of engagement.
(a)
Except as otherwise provided, each justice of the peace shall, at the time of receiving his or her commission, file with the secretary of state a certificate that he or she has been duly engaged thereon, signed by the person before whom the engagement shall have been taken, and the secretary of state shall, at the request of the justice of the peace and upon payment of the actual cost thereof, issue a wallet-size identification card to the person.
(b)
The term of engagement for each justice of the peace shall be for a period of four (4) years.
History of Section.
P.L. 1911, ch. 671, § 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 30, § 12; P.L. 1925, ch. 642, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 489, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 42-30-4; P.L. 1960, ch. 76, § 25; P.L. 1971, ch. 40, § 1; P.L. 1976, ch. 309, § 1; P.L. 1985, ch. 292, § 1; P.L. 1986, ch. 480, § 1; P.L. 1990, ch. 65, art. 43, § 11; P.L. 1993, ch. 384, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 381, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 2; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-5. - Application for appointment.

§ 42-30-5. Application for appointment.
(a) Application.
Any individual desiring to be appointed a justice of the peace shall make written application to the governor over his or her own signature.
(b) Qualifications of applicants:
(1)
The person qualified for a justice of the peace commission shall be at least eighteen (18) years of age and reside legally within Rhode Island; and
(2)
The applicant for appointment to the office of justice of the peace can speak, read, and write the English language and has sufficient knowledge of the powers and duties pertaining to that office.
(c) Attorneys and accountants.
A member of the Rhode Island bar, and certified public accountants under § 5-3.1-5, shall, regardless of residence, be appointed a justice of the peace upon application and presentment of a certified copy of his or her certificate of admission to the bar or certificate of public accountancy.
(d)
Any person making written application to be appointed a justice of the peace shall, at the time of application, pay to the secretary of state the sum of eighty dollars ($80.00).
History of Section.
P.L. 1911, ch. 671, § 4; G.L. 1923, ch. 30, § 13; P.L. 1925, ch. 642, § 1; P.L. 1931, ch. 1751, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 489, § 10; G.L. 1956, § 42-30-5; P.L. 1987, ch. 192, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 25, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 384, § 1; P.L. 1995, ch. 220, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 381, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 449, § 1; P.L. 2016, ch. 532, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 2; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 2; P.L. 2022, ch. 438, § 1, effective June 30, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 439, § 1, effective June 30, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-7. - Powers of justices.

§ 42-30-7. Powers of justices.
The officers mentioned in §§ 42-30-3 — 42-30-5, inclusive, shall possess all the powers that now are, or hereafter may be, conferred by law upon justices of the peace.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 24, § 9; G.L. 1909, ch. 30, § 15; G.L. 1923, ch. 30, § 14; G.L. 1938, ch. 489, § 11; G.L. 1956, § 42-30-7; P.L. 1993, ch. 319, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 384, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 2; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-8. - [Repealed.]

§ 42-30-8. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 18, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 24, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 23, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 492, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 42-30-8; Repealed by P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 3, effective January 1, 2019; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 3, effective January 1, 2019.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-9. - [Repealed.]

§ 42-30-9. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 24, § 10; G.L. 1909, ch. 30, § 16; G.L. 1923, ch. 30, § 15; G.L. 1938, ch. 489, § 12; G.L. 1956, § 42-30-9; P.L. 1960, ch. 76, § 25; P.L. 1985, ch. 97, § 2; Repealed by P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 3, effective January 1, 2019; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 3, effective January 1, 2019.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-10. - Removal of justices, and commissioners.

§ 42-30-10. Removal of justices, and commissioners.
Any justice of the peace or commissioner of deeds, appointed by the governor, may be removed for cause by the governor, in his or her discretion, within the term for which that officer shall have been appointed, after giving to that officer a copy of the charges against him or her and an opportunity to be heard in his or her defense; provided, however, that any justice of the peace or commissioner of deeds who is convicted of a felony and incarcerated shall have his or her commission revoked. The justice of the peace or commissioner of deeds shall not be eligible to apply for a new commission until his or her voting rights are restored pursuant to R.I. Const., Art. II, Sec. 1.
History of Section.
P.L. 1905, ch. 1220, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 30, § 17; P.L. 1911, ch. 671, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 30, § 16; G.L. 1938, ch. 489, § 13; G.L. 1956, § 42-30-10; P.L. 1989, ch. 333, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 2; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-11. - Continuation of powers without reappointment.

§ 42-30-11. Continuation of powers without reappointment.
Every justice of the peace appointed by the governor and not reappointed may continue to officiate for a space of thirty (30) days after the date on which his or her commission expires.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 25, § 3; G.L. 1909, ch. 31, § 3; G.L. 1923, ch. 31, § 3; G.L. 1938, ch. 490, § 3; G.L. 1956, § 42-30-11; P.L. 1991, ch. 25, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 2; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-12. - [Repealed.]

§ 42-30-12. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 25, § 4; G.L. 1909, ch. 31, § 4; G.L. 1923, ch. 31, § 4; G.L. 1938, ch. 490, § 4; G.L. 1956, § 42-30-12; P.L. 1993, ch. 318, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 384, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 381, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 3, effective January 1, 2019; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 3, effective January 1, 2019.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-13. - [Repealed.]

§ 42-30-13. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 295, § 18; P.L. 1899, ch. 625, § 1; G.L. 1909, ch. 364, § 17; G.L. 1923, ch. 417, § 17; G.L. 1938, ch. 633, § 18; G.L. 1956, § 42-30-13; P.L. 1980, ch. 324, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 3, effective January 1, 2019; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 3, effective January 1, 2019.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-14. - [Repealed.]

§ 42-30-14. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 43-30-14; P.L. 1959, ch. 112, § 2; P.L. 1985, ch. 292, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 116, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 304, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 323, § 1; P.L. 1993, ch. 384, § 1; P.L. 1996, ch. 381, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 312, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 358, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 340, § 33; Repealed by P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 3, effective January 1, 2019; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 3, effective January 1, 2019.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-15. - [Repealed.]

§ 42-30-15. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1991, ch. 25, § 2; P.L. 1993, ch. 384, § 1; Repealed by P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 3, effective January 1, 2019; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 3, effective January 1, 2019.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30 - Justices of the Peace › Section 42-30-16. - [Repealed.]

§ 42-30-16. [Repealed.]
History of Section.
P.L. 1994, ch. 266, § 4; Repealed by P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 3, effective January 1, 2019; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 3, effective January 1, 2019.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-1. - Title.

§ 42-30.1-1. Title.
This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the Uniform Law on Notarial Acts.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-3. - Authority to perform notarial act.

§ 42-30.1-3. Authority to perform notarial act.
(a)
A notarial officer may perform a notarial act authorized by this chapter or by law of this state other than this chapter.
(b)
A notarial officer may certify that a tangible copy of an electronic record is an accurate copy of the electronic record.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4; P.L. 2022, ch. 438, § 2, effective June 30, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 439, § 2, effective June 30, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-4. - Requirements for certain notarial acts.

§ 42-30.1-4. Requirements for certain notarial acts.
(a)
A notarial officer who takes an acknowledgment of a record shall determine, from personal knowledge or satisfactory evidence of the identity of the individual, that the individual appearing before the officer and making the acknowledgment has the identity claimed and that the signature on the record is the signature of the individual.
(b)
A notarial officer who takes a verification of a statement on oath or affirmation shall determine, from personal knowledge or satisfactory evidence of the identity of the individual, that the individual appearing before the notarial officer and making the verification has the identity claimed and that the signature on the statement verified is the signature of the individual.
(c)
A notarial officer who witnesses or attests to a signature shall determine, from personal knowledge or satisfactory evidence of the identity of the individual, that the individual appearing before the notarial officer and signing the record has the identity claimed.
(d)
A notarial officer who certifies or attests a copy of a record or an item that was copied shall determine that the copy is a full, true, and accurate transcription or reproduction of the record or item.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4; P.L. 2022, ch. 438, § 2, effective June 30, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 439, § 2, effective June 30, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-5. - Personal appearance required.

§ 42-30.1-5. Personal appearance required.
If a notarial act relates to a statement made in, or a signature executed upon, a record, the individual making the statement or executing the signature shall appear personally before the notarial officer. For purposes of this section, personal appearance means that the principal and the notary public communicate by communication technology at the time of the notarization; or that the principal and notary public are physically close enough to communicate with each other at the time of notarization.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4; P.L. 2022, ch. 438, § 2, effective June 30, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 439, § 2, effective June 30, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-6. - Identification of individual.

§ 42-30.1-6. Identification of individual.
(a)
A notarial officer has personal knowledge of the identity of an individual appearing before the notarial officer if the individual is personally known to the notarial officer through dealings sufficient to provide reasonable certainty that the individual has the identity claimed.
(b)
A notarial officer has satisfactory evidence of the identity of an individual appearing before the notarial officer if the notarial officer can identify the individual:
(1)
By means of:
(i)
A passport, driver’s license, or government-issued, non-driver identification card, that is current or expired not more than three (3) years before performance of the notarial act; or
(ii)
Another form of government identification issued to an individual that is current or expired not more than three (3) years before performance of the notarial act, contains the signature or a photograph of the individual, and is satisfactory to the notarial officer; or
(2)
By a verification on oath or affirmation of a credible witness personally appearing before the notarial officer and known to the officer or whom the officer can identify on the basis of a passport, driver’s license, or government issued nondriver identification card, which is current or expired not more than three (3) years before performance of the notarial act.
(c)
A notarial officer may require an individual to provide additional information or identification credentials necessary to assure the notarial officer of the identity of the individual.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4; P.L. 2022, ch. 438, § 2, effective June 30, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 439, § 2, effective June 30, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-7. - Authority to refuse to perform notarial act.

§ 42-30.1-7. Authority to refuse to perform notarial act.
(a)
A notarial officer may refuse to perform a notarial act if the notarial officer is not satisfied that:
(1)
The individual executing the record is competent or has the capacity to execute the record; or
(2)
The individual’s signature is knowingly and voluntarily made.
(b)
A notarial officer may refuse to perform a notarial act unless refusal is prohibited by law other than this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-8. - Signature if individual unable to sign.

§ 42-30.1-8. Signature if individual unable to sign.
If an individual is physically unable to sign a record, the individual may direct an individual other than the notarial officer to sign the individual’s name on the record. The notarial officer shall insert “Signature affixed by (name of other individual) at the direction of (name of individual)” or words of similar import.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-9. - Notarial act in this state.

§ 42-30.1-9. Notarial act in this state.
The signature and title of an individual performing a notarial act in this state are prima facie evidence that the signature is genuine and that the individual holds the designated title.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-10. - Notarial act in another state.

§ 42-30.1-10. Notarial act in another state.
(a)
A notarial act performed in another state has the same effect under the law of this state as if performed by a notarial officer of this state, if the act performed in that state is performed by:
(1)
A notary public of that state;
(2)
A judge, clerk, or deputy clerk of a court of that state; or
(3)
Any other individual authorized by the law of that state to perform the notarial act.
(b)
The signature and title of an individual performing a notarial act in another state are prima facie evidence that the signature is genuine and that the individual holds the designated title.
(c)
The signature and title of a notarial officer described in subsection (a)(1) or (a)(2) of this section conclusively establish the authority of the officer to perform the notarial act.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-11. - Notarial act under federal authority.

§ 42-30.1-11. Notarial act under federal authority.
(a)
A notarial act performed under federal law has the same effect under the law of this state as if performed by a notarial officer of this state, if the act performed under federal law is performed by:
(1)
A judge, clerk, or deputy clerk of a court;
(2)
An individual in military service, or performing duties under the authority of military service, who is authorized to perform notarial acts under federal law;
(3)
An individual designated a notarizing officer by the United States Department of State for performing notarial acts overseas; or
(4)
Any other individual authorized by federal law to perform the notarial act.
(b)
The signature and title of an individual acting under federal authority and performing a notarial act are prima facie evidence that the signature is genuine and that the individual holds the designated title.
(c)
The signature and title of an officer described in subsection (a)(1), (a)(2), or (a)(3) of this section conclusively establish the authority of the officer to perform the notarial act.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-12. - Foreign notarial act.

§ 42-30.1-12. Foreign notarial act.
(a)
In this section, “foreign state” means a government other than the United States or a state.
(b)
If a notarial act is performed under authority and in the jurisdiction of a foreign state or constituent unit of the foreign state, or is performed under the authority of a multinational or international governmental organization, the act has the same effect under the law of this state as if performed by a notarial officer of this state.
(c)
If the title of office and indication of authority to perform notarial acts in a foreign state appears in a digest of foreign law or in a list customarily used as a source for that information, the authority of an officer with that title to perform notarial acts is conclusively established.
(d)
The signature and official stamp of an individual holding an office described in subsection (c) of this section are prima facie evidence that the signature is genuine and the individual holds the designated title.
(e)
A consular authentication issued by an individual designated by the United States Department of State as a notarizing officer for performing notarial acts overseas and attached to the record with respect to which the notarial act is performed conclusively establishes that the signature of the notarial officer is genuine and that the officer holds the indicated office.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4; P.L. 2022, ch. 438, § 2, effective June 30, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 439, § 2, effective June 30, 2022.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-13. - Official stamp.

§ 42-30.1-13. Official stamp.
The official stamp of a notary public must:
(1)
Include the notary public’s name, the words “notary public,” jurisdiction, and other information required by the rules of the commissioning agency; and
(2)
Be capable of being copied together with the record to which it is affixed or attached or with which it is logically associated;
(3)
This section shall not preclude a notarial officer who is a member of the general assembly in this state from notarizing a document without the use of a stamp on the floor of the general assembly during open session.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-14. - Notification regarding performance of notarial act on electronic record — Selection of technology.

§ 42-30.1-14. Notification regarding performance of notarial act on electronic record — Selection of technology.
(a)
A notary public may select one or more tamper-evident technologies to perform notarial acts with respect to electronic records. A person may not require a notary public to perform a notarial act with respect to an electronic record with a technology that the notary public has not selected.
(b)
Before a notary public performs the notary public’s initial notarial act with respect to an electronic record, a notary public shall notify the commissioning agency that the notary public will be performing notarial acts with respect to electronic records and identify the technology the notary public intends to use. If the commissioning agency has established standards for approval of technology, the technology must conform to the standards. If the technology conforms to the standards, the commissioning agency shall approve the use of the technology.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-16. - Grounds to deny, refuse to renew, revoke, suspend, or condition commission of notary public.

§ 42-30.1-16. Grounds to deny, refuse to renew, revoke, suspend, or condition commission of notary public.
(a)
The commissioning officer may deny, refuse to renew, revoke, suspend, or impose a condition on a commission as notary public for any act or omission that demonstrates the individual lacks the honesty, integrity, competence, or reliability to act as a notary public, including without limitation:
(1)
Failure to comply with this chapter;
(2)
A fraudulent, dishonest, or deceitful misstatement or omission in the application for a commission as a notary public submitted to the commissioning officer and/or agency;
(3)
A conviction of the applicant or notary public of any crime that involves fraud, dishonesty, or deceit; provided that in determining whether to deny, refuse to renew, revoke, suspend, or condition the commission, the commissioning officer shall consider such factors as the seriousness of the crime; whether the crime relates directly to the training and skills needed for the commission of a notary public; how much time has elapsed since the crime was committed; and the applicant’s actions and conduct since the crime was committed;
(4)
A finding against, or admission of liability by, the applicant or notary public in any legal proceeding or disciplinary action based on the applicant’s or notary public’s fraud, dishonesty, or deceit;
(5)
Use of false or misleading advertising or representation by the notary public representing that the notary public has a duty, right, or privilege that the notary public does not have;
(6)
Denial, refusal to renew, revocation, suspension, or conditioning of a notary public commission in another state; or
(7)
Termination or revocation of a certificate of admission to the Rhode Island bar or a certificate of public accountancy.
(b)
If the commissioning officer denies, refuses to renew, revokes, suspends, or imposes conditions on a commission as a notary public, the applicant or notary public is entitled to timely notice and hearing in accordance with chapter 35 of this title.
(c)
The authority of the commissioning officer to deny, refuse to renew, suspend, revoke, or impose conditions on a commission as a notary public does not prevent a person from seeking and obtaining other criminal or civil remedies provided by law.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-17. - Database of notaries public.

§ 42-30.1-17. Database of notaries public.
The commissioning agency shall maintain an electronic database of notaries public:
(1)
Through which a person may verify the authority of a notary public to perform notarial acts; and
(2)
That indicates whether a notary public has notified the commissioning agency that the notary public will be performing notarial acts on electronic records.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 42 - State Affairs and Government › Chapter 42-30.1 - Uniform Law on Notarial Acts › Section 42-30.1-18. - Prohibited acts.

§ 42-30.1-18. Prohibited acts.
(a)
A commission as a notary public does not authorize an individual to:
(1)
Assist persons in drafting legal records, give legal advice, or otherwise practice law;
(2)
Act as an immigration consultant or an expert on immigration matters;
(3)
Represent a person in a judicial or administrative proceeding relating to immigration to the United States, United States citizenship, or related matters; or
(4)
Receive compensation for performing any of the activities listed in this subsection.
(b)
A notary public may not engage in false or deceptive advertising.
(c)
A notary public, other than an attorney licensed to practice law in this state, may not use the term “notario” or “notario publico.”
(d)
A notary public, other than an attorney licensed to practice law in this state, may not advertise or represent that the notary public may assist persons in drafting legal records, give legal advice, or otherwise practice law. If a notary public who is not an attorney licensed to practice law in this state in any manner advertises or represents that the notary public offers notarial services, whether orally or in a record, including broadcast media, print media, and the internet, the notary public shall include the following statement, or an alternate statement authorized or required by the commissioning agency, in the advertisement or representation, prominently and in each language used in the advertisement or representation: “I am not an attorney licensed to practice law in this state. I am not licensed to draft legal records, give advice on legal matters, including immigration, or charge a fee for those activities.” If the form of advertisement or representation is not broadcast media, print media, or the internet and does not permit inclusion of the statement required by this subsection because of size, it must be displayed prominently or provided at the place of performance of the notarial act before the notarial act is performed.
(e)
Except as otherwise allowed by law, a notary public may not withhold access to, or possession of, an original record provided by a person that seeks performance of a notarial act by the notary public.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 104, § 4; P.L. 2018, ch. 109, § 4.