Rhode Island § 12-21-5 - Recovery of Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 12-21-5 — Recovery of Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12-21-5. Recovery of Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures
R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-21-5
§ 12-21-5. Action by town or city.
Whenever any penalty or forfeiture, or any part of a penalty or forfeiture, shall be given to any town by any penal statute, the town council may sue for the penalty or forfeiture in the name of the town, or the proper prosecuting officer in the name of any city which shall be entitled to the benefit of the penalty or forfeiture, and the town council may remit the whole of the penalty or forfeiture.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 288, § 9; G.L. 1909, ch. 357, § 9; G.L. 1923, ch. 410, § 9; G.L. 1938,
ch. 631, § 9; G.L. 1956, § 12-21-5.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 12-21-5
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 12-21-5 cover?
Section 12-21-5 ("Recovery of Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures") 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 § 12-21-5?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 12-21-5" (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 § 12-21-5 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.