Rhode Island § 10-3-5 - Arbitration

§ 10-3-5. Determination as to whether issue is subject to arbitration.

If the making of the arbitration agreement or the failure, neglect, or refusal to perform the arbitration agreement is in issue, the court shall proceed summarily to the trial thereof. If no jury trial be demanded, the court shall hear and determine the issue. Where such an issue is raised, either party may, on or before the return day of the notice of application, demand a jury trial of the issue, and upon the demand of a jury trial the court shall make an order referring the issue or issues to a jury as in equity causes. If the jury finds that no agreement in writing for arbitration was made, or that there is no default in proceeding thereunder, the proceeding shall be dismissed. If the jury finds that an agreement for arbitration was made in writing and that there is a default in proceeding thereunder, the court shall make an order summarily directing the parties to proceed with the arbitration in accordance with the terms thereof.