Rhode Island § 33-6-31 - Proof and Construction of Wills
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 33-6-31 — Proof and Construction of Wills, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 33-6-31. Proof and Construction of Wills
R.I. Gen. Laws § 33-6-31
§ 33-6-31. Passage of title by will — Recording.
Title to real or personal property shall pass by will when the will has been finally proved; provided, however, that title to real estate situated in any town or city of this state other than that in which the will is proved shall not pass by will for the purpose of conveyance by the devisee until, in addition to probate, a copy of the will as proved, duly certified by the probate clerk, is recorded in the records of land evidence in that other town or city. Any foreign will shall be recorded as provided in §§ 33-7-18 — 33-7-22, and when finally allowed, shall operate to pass title to all lands in that town or city where the will is duly recorded, and in any other town or city in which a duly certified copy thereof has been recorded in the records of land evidence in that town or city and not otherwise; provided, however, that when any will is duly proved, or proved and recorded, title to lands as devised thereby shall relate back to the date of the death of the testator.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 203, § 42; C. P. A. 1905, § 1140; G.L. 1909, ch. 254, § 42; G.L. 1923,
ch. 298, § 42; G.L. 1938, ch. 566, § 41; G.L. 1956, § 33-6-31.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 33-6-31
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 33-6-31 cover?
Section 33-6-31 ("Proof and Construction of Wills") 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 § 33-6-31?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 33-6-31" (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 § 33-6-31 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.