Rule 83.Rules of Practice and Orders.
Current through February 2024 · Last verified September 12, 2026
Full Text of Rule 83
Amendment History
Rhode Island does not publish a per-rule amendment history inside the compiled rules text reproduced here. The text above is verified current through the source’s own February 2024 printing; for the underlying adopting orders and any later amendments, see the Rhode Island Judiciary’s compiled rules page.
Plain-English Summary
Two things get made under Rule 83. A majority of the justices of the Family Court may adopt rules of practice from time to time. The chief judge may promulgate administrative orders. Both exist to further regulate practice and the conduct of business in the court.
The rule puts both on the same footing as these rules. They are deemed adopted under the power by which these rules are made and promulgated, and under any other powers the court may hold. A rule of practice is not a lesser thing than a numbered rule in this book.
The last sentence is the one that catches people. Calling something an order rather than a rule is a matter of convenience and has no other effect. An administrative order carries the same weight as a rule of practice, so read the court's orders alongside these rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who adopts rules of practice in the Rhode Island Family Court?
A majority of the justices of the Family Court may adopt them from time to time. Rule 83 treats them as adopted under the same power that produced these rules.
Who issues Family Court administrative orders?
The chief judge promulgates them to further regulate practice and the conduct of business in the court. Rule 83 places them on the same footing as rules of practice.
Is an administrative order less binding than a rule?
No. Rule 83 says that designating something an order rather than a rule is for purposes of convenience only and has no other effect.
Where does the court get authority to issue these rules and orders?
Rule 83 deems them adopted under the power by which these rules are made and promulgated. It adds that they also rest on such other powers as the court may have.
Why is a local requirement missing from the numbered rules?
A requirement can sit in a rule of practice or an administrative order rather than in the numbered rules. Rule 83 gives those the same force as these rules, so check them before concluding a requirement does not exist.