Rhode Island § 12-16-3 - Attendance of Witnesses from Without State
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 12-16-3 — Attendance of Witnesses from Without State, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12-16-3. Attendance of Witnesses from Without State
R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-16-3
§ 12-16-3. Certification by foreign judge as to witness from this state.
If a judge of a court of record in any state, which by its laws has made provision for commanding persons within that state to attend and testify in this state, certifies under the seal of the court: (1) that there is a criminal prosecution pending in the court or that a grand jury investigation has commenced or is about to commence, (2) that a person being within this state is a material witness in the prosecution or grand jury investigation, and (3) that the person’s presence will be required for a specified number of days, upon presentation of the certificate to any judge of a court of record in the county in which the person is, the judge shall fix a time and place for a hearing, and shall make an order directing the witness to appear at a certain time and place for the hearing.
History of Section.
P.L. 1936, ch. 2382, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 626, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 12-16-3.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 12-16-3
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 12-16-3 cover?
Section 12-16-3 ("Attendance of Witnesses from Without State") 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 § 12-16-3?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 12-16-3" (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 § 12-16-3 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.