Rhode Island § 15-10-1 - Support of Parents
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 15-10-1 — Support of Parents, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-10-1. Support of Parents
R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-10-1
§ 15-10-1. Penalty for unreasonable neglect of destitute parents.
(a) Any person, above the age of eighteen (18) years, who unreasonably neglects or refuses to provide for the support and maintenance of his or her parent, whether father or mother, residing in this state, when his or her parent through misfortune, and without fault of his or her own, is destitute of means of sustenance and unable by reason of old age, infirmity, or illness to support and maintain himself or herself, shall be punished by a fine not exceeding two hundred dollars ($200), or by imprisonment for not more than one year, or by both a fine and imprisonment.
(b) No neglect or refusal shall be deemed unreasonable as to a child who, during his or her minority, was not reasonably supported by the parent, if the parent was charged with the duty to do so, nor as to any child who, being one of two (2) or more children, has made proper and reasonable contribution toward the support of his or her destitute parent.
History of Section.
P.L. 1917, ch. 1510, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 292, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 419, § 1; G.L. 1956,
§ 15-10-1; P.L. 2004, ch. 6, § 26.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 15-10-1
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 15-10-1 cover?
Section 15-10-1 ("Support of Parents") 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 § 15-10-1?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 15-10-1" (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 § 15-10-1 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.