Rhode Island § 10-16-14 - Small Claims and Consumer Claims
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 10-16-14 — Small Claims and Consumer Claims, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 10-16-14. Small Claims and Consumer Claims
R.I. Gen. Laws § 10-16-14
§ 10-16-14. Appeals by defendant.
(a) The defendant, if aggrieved by the decision of the district court in a cause brought under the provisions of this chapter, shall have the same right of appeal, and under the same terms and conditions, as are provided under the practice in ordinary civil actions in district courts.
(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, in cases in which the plaintiff is the purchaser of a consumer product seeking to recover damages against the seller and/or manufacturer of that product, if the defendant is defaulted for failure to answer and defend the claim, the judgment of the district court shall be final. In such event, the defendant shall be deemed to have forfeited all rights to appeal and shall not be entitled to a trial de novo in superior court.
History of Section.
P.L. 1930, ch. 1596, § 8; G.L. 1938, ch. 592, § 8; G.L. 1956, § 10-16-14; P.L. 1984,
ch. 235, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 10-16-14
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 10-16-14 cover?
Section 10-16-14 ("Small Claims and Consumer Claims") 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 § 10-16-14?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 10-16-14" (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 § 10-16-14 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.