Rhode Island § 12-4-2 - Recognizance to Keep the Peace

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 12-4-2 — Recognizance to Keep the Peace, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 12-4-2. Recognizance to Keep the Peace

R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-4-2

§ 12-4-2. Warrant to apprehend accused.

If the complainant shall then, before the judge or justice of the peace, enter into a recognizance in a sum not exceeding fifty dollars ($50.00), and with this surety, as the judge or justice of the peace shall direct and approve, with condition to prosecute the complaint with effect, or in default of prosecution to pay the costs that may accrue to the state, the judge or justice of the peace shall issue a warrant returnable immediately, annexing to the warrant the complaint, or reciting its substance in it, directed to the sheriff, deputy sheriffs, town sergeants, and town constables in the county in which the division is, and to the like officers in the county in which the accused may be supposed to belong, reside, or be found, and requiring the officer who shall be charged with the service of the warrant immediately to apprehend the accused and have him or her before the district court for the division in which the offense shall be alleged to have been committed.

History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 153; G.L. 1909, ch. 281, § 6; G.L. 1923, ch. 331, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 501, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 12-4-2; P.L. 1969, ch. 239, § 15; P.L. 2015, ch. 260, § 20; P.L. 2015, ch. 275, § 20.

Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 12-4-2

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 12-4-2 cover?

Section 12-4-2 ("Recognizance to Keep the Peace") 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 § 12-4-2?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 12-4-2" (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 § 12-4-2 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.