Rhode Island Court Records

The Rhode Island courts website serves as an informative guide to the framework and operation of the state’s court hierarchy. It explains what each part of the system actually handles. 

Like most states, Rhode Island splits its judiciary into two main levels: trial and appellate courts. As the state's apex court, the state’s Supreme Court reviews appeals from the trial courts. The trial courts comprise the Superior, District, Family, and Probate Courts. There are also special courts: the Workers Compensation Courts and the Traffic Tribunals. Each trial court handles designated cases.

Court records are public under the Rhode Island Supreme Court Rules on Access to Public Records. However, there is a statutory exemption on public access to juvenile records, sealed and expunged case files, and sensitive or confidential information. Public access to Rhode Island court records and proceedings underlines constitutional commitment to transparency. While the Rhode Island court records website provides valuable information about legal trials within the state, visitors should note that it does not replace the official government sites.