Rhode Island § 12-5-7 - Search Warrants
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 12-5-7 — Search Warrants, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12-5-7. Search Warrants
R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-5-7
§ 12-5-7. Disposition of seized property.
(a) The property seized shall be safely kept by the officer seizing it, under the direction of the court, so long as may be necessary for the purpose of being used as evidence in any case.
(b) As soon as may be thereafter, if the property is subject to forfeiture, further proceedings shall be had on the property for forfeiture as is prescribed by law in chapter 21 of this title.
(c) If the property seized was stolen or otherwise unlawfully taken from the owner, or is not found to have been unlawfully used or intended for unlawful use, or is found to have been unlawfully used without the knowledge of the owner, it shall be returned to the person legally entitled to its possession.
History of Section.
C.P.A. 1905, § 179; G.L. 1909, ch. 281, § 32; G.L. 1923, ch. 331, § 32; G.L. 1938,
ch. 501, § 32; G.L. 1956, § 12-5-2; G.L., § 12-5-7; P.L. 1965, ch. 168, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 12-5-7
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 12-5-7 cover?
Section 12-5-7 ("Search Warrants") 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 § 12-5-7?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 12-5-7" (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 § 12-5-7 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.