Rhode Island § 10-16-8 - Small Claims and Consumer Claims
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 10-16-8 — Small Claims and Consumer Claims, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 10-16-8. Small Claims and Consumer Claims
R.I. Gen. Laws § 10-16-8
§ 10-16-8. Default by plaintiff — Prevention of abuse of procedure by claimants.
(a) If the plaintiff does not appear at the time set for the hearing, the court may dismiss the claim and action for want of prosecution, or enter judgment for the defendant for his or her costs, or make such other disposition of the case as may be proper.
(b) If the clerk shall find that the procedure provided by this chapter is sought to be utilized by a claimant for purposes of oppression or harassment, as where the claimant has previously resorted to such procedure on the same claim and has been unsuccessful after hearing thereon, the clerk may in his or her discretion compel the claimant to make application to the court for leave to prosecute the claim under this chapter. The court upon such application shall inquire into the circumstances and, if it shall find that the claim has already been adjudicated, or that the claim is sought to be brought on solely for purposes of oppression or harassment and not under color of right, it may make an order denying the claimant the availability of the procedure provided by this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1930, ch. 1596, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 592, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 10-16-8; P.L. 1970,
ch. 214, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 10-16-8
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 10-16-8 cover?
Section 10-16-8 ("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 § 10-16-8?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 10-16-8" (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 § 10-16-8 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.