Rhode Island § 10-13-1 - Relief of Poor Debtors

Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 10-13-1 — Relief of Poor Debtors, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 10-13-1. Relief of Poor Debtors

R.I. Gen. Laws § 10-13-1

§ 10-13-1. Application to take poor debtor’s oath.

Except as is otherwise provided by § 10-13-2, any person who shall be imprisoned for debt whether on a writ of arrest issued at the commencement of an action, mesne process, or execution, or on execution awarded against him or her as defendant in any action to recover the possession of land or trespass to land, in which title to the land was in dispute between the parties, may complain to the justice of any district court in the county where the person shall be committed that he or she has no estate, real or personal, wherewith to support himself or herself in a correctional institution or to pay institution charges and may request to be admitted to take the poor debtor’s oath.

History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 260, § 1; C.P.A. 1905, § 1153; G.L. 1909, ch. 326, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 377, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 563, § 1; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721, § 1; G.L. 1956, § 10-13-1; P.L. 1965, ch. 55, § 56.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 10-13-1

What does Rhode Island General Laws § 10-13-1 cover?

Section 10-13-1 ("Relief of Poor Debtors") 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 § 10-13-1?

A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 10-13-1" (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 § 10-13-1 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.