Rhode Island § 8-4-21 - Clerks of Supreme and Superior Courts

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 8-4-21 — Clerks of Supreme and Superior Courts, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 8-4-21. Clerks of Supreme and Superior Courts

R.I. Gen. Laws § 8-4-21

§ 8-4-21. General assistant clerks.

The presiding justice of the superior court shall appoint four (4) general assistant clerks, who shall hold office until removed by the presiding justice. Each of the general assistant clerks may be designated by the presiding justice for service in assisting any of the clerks of the superior court for the several counties throughout the state. When so designated, that general assistant clerk shall aid the clerk of the county or counties where he or she shall be so designated and any act done by him or her, under direction of the clerk of the county, in the line of duty of the clerk, shall have the same force and effect as though done by the clerk; each general assistant clerk shall have the authority in any county to administer oaths to parties, witnesses, and others, as required in the conduct of the proceedings of the court. The general assistant clerks may be advanced to the rank of deputy clerk by appointment of the presiding justice of the superior court and may in their capacities as deputy clerks be designated by the presiding justice for service in assisting any of the clerks of the superior court for the several counties throughout the state and may discharge all of the duties which could be performed by the clerk of the superior court for any county.

History of Section.
P.L. 1974, ch. 159, § 1; P.L. 1976, ch. 162, § 1; P.L. 1981, ch. 266, § 1; P.L. 1997, ch. 311, § 1.

Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 8-4-21

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 8-4-21 cover?

Section 8-4-21 ("Clerks of Supreme and Superior Courts") 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 § 8-4-21?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 8-4-21" (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 § 8-4-21 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.