Rhode Island § 38-2-5 - Access to Public Records
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 38-2-5 — Access to Public Records, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 38-2-5. Access to Public Records
R.I. Gen. Laws § 38-2-5
§ 38-2-5. Effect of chapter on broader agency publication — Existing rights — Judicial records and proceedings.
Nothing in this chapter shall be:
(1) Construed as preventing any public body from opening its records concerning the administration of the body to public inspection;
(2) Construed as limiting the right of access as it existed prior to July 1, 1979, of an individual who is the subject of a record to the information contained herein; or
(3) Deemed in any manner to affect the status of judicial records as they existed prior to July 1, 1979, nor to affect the rights of litigants in either criminal or civil proceedings, including parties to administrative proceedings, under the laws of discovery of this state.
History of Section.
P.L. 1979, ch. 202, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 38-2-5
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 38-2-5 cover?
Section 38-2-5 ("Access to Public Records") 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 § 38-2-5?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 38-2-5" (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 § 38-2-5 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.