Rhode Island § 14-1-17 - Proceedings in Family Court
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 14-1-17 — Proceedings in Family Court, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14-1-17. Proceedings in Family Court
R.I. Gen. Laws § 14-1-17
§ 14-1-17. Service of summons.
The summons shall require the person upon whom it is served to appear before the court at a time and place stated in it for a hearing on the petition, the allegations of which shall be set forth in the summons, and the summons shall be served by reading it to, and leaving a copy with, the person to be served, or by leaving an attested copy at the last and usual place of abode of the person summoned, with some person living there. However, in the event that the justice has reason to believe that the child may not appear upon summons, or in the event that a child has been summoned and does not appear, the justice may issue a warrant reciting the substance of the petition and requiring the officer to whom it is directed to immediately take the child and bring it before the court to be dealt with according to the provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1944, ch. 1441, § 20; G.L. 1956, § 14-1-17; impl. am. P.L. 1961, ch. 73, § 14;
P.L. 1985, ch. 98, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 14-1-17
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 14-1-17 cover?
Section 14-1-17 ("Proceedings in Family Court") 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 § 14-1-17?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 14-1-17" (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 § 14-1-17 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.