Rhode Island § 5-5-20 - Private Detective Act
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 5-5-20 — Private Detective Act, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 5-5-20. Private Detective Act
R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-5-20
§ 5-5-20. Exemptions.
(a) Nothing in this chapter includes the activities of any person employed by any federal or state agency or any city or town as an investigator. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to require a detective’s license in order to interview parties and/or witnesses in legal matters.
(b) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to require a detective’s license of any of the following:
(1) An agent, employee, or assistant to a licensed “detective” whose duties are in connection with the regular and customary business of his or her contracting agency;
(2) A person engaged in earning his or her livelihood by genealogical work and the compilation of family history while so engaged;
(3) An insurance investigator;
(4) A credit reporting bureau or agency whose business is principally the furnishing of information as to business and financial standing and credit responsibility; or
(5) An individual employed as a computer forensic specialist who holds professional certification as a computer examiner.
History of Section.
P.L. 1987, ch. 479, § 2; P.L. 1991, ch. 429, § 1; P.L. 2008, ch. 111, § 1; P.L. 2009,
ch. 310, § 24.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 5-5-20
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 5-5-20 cover?
Section 5-5-20 ("Private Detective Act") 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 § 5-5-20?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 5-5-20" (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 § 5-5-20 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.