Rhode Island Eviction court process & timeline
How does the eviction court process work in Rhode Island?
In a holdover eviction, filed on the court's 'Reason Other Than Nonpayment' complaint form, the summons gives the tenant 20 days from service to file an answer or be defaulted. The hearing is then scheduled under the court's rules.
Verified Source: R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-18-38(a)-(b) · last checked 2026-10-23
Same topic in neighboring states
All Rhode Island landlord-tenant law · Rhode Island landlord FAQ · Security deposit limit · Deposit return deadline · Notice to enter · Required lease disclosures · Required disclosures (mold, lead, radon, bedbug, asbestos, flood zone)
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