Rhode Island § 42-1-2 - Sovereignty and Jurisdiction of State
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 42-1-2 — Sovereignty and Jurisdiction of State, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 42-1-2. Sovereignty and Jurisdiction of State
R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-1-2
§ 42-1-2. Jurisdiction of state — Lands ceded to United States.
The jurisdiction of the state shall extend to, and embrace, all places within the boundaries thereof, except as to those places that have been ceded to the United States, or have been purchased by the United States with the consent of the state. Provided, however, with respect to all land, the jurisdiction over which shall have been ceded to the United States by the state of Rhode Island, the state of Rhode Island shall have and hereby does retain concurrent jurisdiction with the United States of and over that land, for the sole and only purpose of serving and executing thereon civil and criminal process issuing by virtue of and under the laws and authority of the state of Rhode Island.
History of Section.
G.L. 1896, ch. 1, § 2; G.L. 1909, ch. 1, § 2; G.L. 1923, ch. 1, § 2; G.L. 1938, ch.
1, § 2; G.L. 1956, § 42-1-2.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 42-1-2
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 42-1-2 cover?
Section 42-1-2 ("Sovereignty and Jurisdiction of 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 § 42-1-2?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 42-1-2" (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 § 42-1-2 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.