§ 8-8.1-2 - Filing of complaint. - Rhode Island Statutes

SECTION 8-8.1-2

   § 8-8.1-2  Filing of complaint. – (a) Proceedings under this chapter shall be filed, heard, and determined in thedistrict court of the division in which the plaintiff resides. Any proceedingsunder this chapter shall not preclude any other available civil or criminalremedies. A party filing a complaint under this chapter may do so withoutpayment of any filing fee. If the plaintiff has left the residence or householdto avoid abuse, he or she may bring the action in the court of previousresidence or the court of present residence. There shall be no minimumresidence requirements for the bringing of an action under this chapter.

   (b) Answers to the summons and complaint shall be made withinten (10) days of service upon the defendant and the action shall takeprecedence on the calendar. If no answer is filed within the time prescribed,judgment shall enter forthwith.