§ 15-14.1-22 - Appearance of parties and child. - Rhode Island Statutes

SECTION 15-14.1-22

   § 15-14.1-22  Appearance of parties andchild. – (a) In a child custody proceeding in this state, the court may order a party tothe proceeding who is in this state to appear before the court in person withor without the child. The court may order any person who is in this state andwho has physical custody or control of the child to appear in person with thechild.

   (b) If a party to a child custody proceeding whose presenceis desired by the court is outside this state, the court may order that anotice given pursuant to this chapter include a statement directing the partyto appear in person with or without the child and informing the party thatfailure to appear may result in a decision adverse to the party.

   (c) The court may enter any orders necessary to ensure thesafety of the child and of any person ordered to appear under this section.

   (d) If a party to a child custody proceeding who is outsidethis state is directed to appear under subsection (b) of this section ordesires to appear personally before the court with or without the child, thecourt may require another party to pay reasonable and necessary travel andother expenses of the party so appearing and of the child.