Rhode Island § 12-16-4 - Attendance of Witnesses from Without State
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 12-16-4 — Attendance of Witnesses from Without State, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12-16-4. Attendance of Witnesses from Without State
R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-16-4
§ 12-16-4. Issuance of summons to appear in another state.
If at a hearing the judge determines: (1) that the witness is material and necessary, (2) that it will not cause undue hardship to the witness to be compelled to attend and testify in the prosecution or a grand jury investigation in the other state, and (3) that the laws of the state in which the prosecution is pending or grand jury investigation has commenced or is about to commence will give to him or her protection from arrest and the service of civil and criminal process, the judge shall issue a summons with a copy of the certificate attached, directing the witness to attend and testify in the court where the prosecution is pending or where a grand jury investigation has commenced or is about to commence at a time and place specified in the summons. In any hearing the certificate shall be prima facie evidence of all the facts stated in it.
History of Section.
P.L. 1936, ch. 2382, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch. 626, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 12-16-4.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 12-16-4
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 12-16-4 cover?
Section 12-16-4 ("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 § 12-16-4?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 12-16-4" (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 § 12-16-4 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.