Rhode Island § 14-5-2 - Treatment of Juveniles for Chemical Dependency
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 14-5-2 — Treatment of Juveniles for Chemical Dependency, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14-5-2. Treatment of Juveniles for Chemical Dependency
R.I. Gen. Laws § 14-5-2
§ 14-5-2. Definitions.
For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions apply:
(1) “Child” or “minor” means any person under eighteen (18) years of age who is not married, is not a parent, or is not emancipated.
(2) “Chemical dependency” means addiction to alcohol and/or other drugs.
(3) “Licensed treatment facilities” means:
(i) A licensed hospital located in Rhode Island which is accredited by the joint commission on the accreditation of hospitals;
(ii) An inpatient facility with residential rehabilitation treatment and/or detoxification programs as licensed by the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals and accredited by the joint commission on accreditation of hospitals. Treatment must be rendered under the direct supervision of a licensed doctor of medicine;
(iii) Day/evening treatment services and/or partial hospitalization services in a licensed hospital located in Rhode Island or in a facility licensed by the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals for substance dependency and substance abuse treatment;
(iv) A facility located in Rhode Island with non-residential treatment programs and facilities approved and licensed by the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals; or
(v) An out-of-state facility which has been approved by the department of behavioral healthcare, developmental disabilities and hospitals.
(4) “Non-custodial, non-invasive treatment” means any treatment where the juvenile is not detained overnight or in any way against his or her will, and which consists only of counseling. This counseling can include help for personal problems and for coping with parental alcohol and drug problems.
(5) “Parent” means a natural or adoptive parent, or a legal guardian.
(6) “Qualified professional” means a physician, nurse, credentialed substance abuse counselor, certified social worker, or a licensed psychologist.
(7) “Substance abuse” means abuse of alcohol and/or other drugs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1988, ch, 665, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 14-5-2
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 14-5-2 cover?
Section 14-5-2 ("Treatment of Juveniles for Chemical Dependency") 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 § 14-5-2?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 14-5-2" (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 § 14-5-2 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.