Rhode Island § 12-10-4 - Preliminary Proceedings in District Courts
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 12-10-4 — Preliminary Proceedings in District Courts, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12-10-4. Preliminary Proceedings in District Courts
R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-10-4
§ 12-10-4. Plea on offense beyond trial jurisdiction of district court.
Whenever any person shall be brought before a district court upon a complaint charging him or her with an offense which is not within the jurisdiction of the court to try and determine, the court may, with the written consent of the attorney general or his or her authorized designee, and with a waiver of indictment or information by such person, acting with the benefit of counsel, receive a plea of guilty or nolo contendere and may impose sentence. There shall be no appeal to the superior court. Any district court judge performing these duties shall receive the same salary as a superior court judge would receive.
History of Section.
G.L. 1909, ch. 281, § 41; P.L. 1915, ch. 1258, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 331, § 41; G.L.
1938, ch. 501, § 41; G.L. 1956, § 12-10-4; P.L. 1972, ch. 169, § 18; P.L. 2003, ch.
139, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 12-10-4
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 12-10-4 cover?
Section 12-10-4 ("Preliminary Proceedings in District Courts") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Rhode Island § 12-10-4?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 12-10-4" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 12-10-4 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.