Bristol County
The Bristol County court system comprises five courts, namely the Superior Court, Family Court, Probate Court, Municipal Court, and District Court. The Bristol County Superior Court provides the platform for jury and non-jury trials of both criminal and civil cases. This court has original jurisdiction in all felony proceedings, equity matters, and civil lawsuits wherein the amount in dispute exceeds $10,000.
Conversely, the District Court has exclusive jurisdiction over all civil actions where the amount in controversy is less than $5,000. However, it has concurrent jurisdiction with the Superior Court over all civil actions where the disputed amount exceeds the sum of $5,000 but does not exceed $10,000.
The Bristol and Warren Municipal Courts determine cases of violations of town ordinances, including minimum housing, zoning, harbor patrol, and animal codes. They also handle traffic violation cases brought by the town police as well as parking ticket disputes. The Bristol County Family Court focuses on resolving the complex issues affecting families and children, such as juvenile delinquency, domestic violence cases, adoption, and guardianship matters.
The responsibilities of the Probate Courts are to handle the legal process of administering the estate of a deceased person. Typically, they ensure the validity of a deceased person's will, the distribution of assets, and the payment of debts and taxes.
Bristol County public court records are maintained by the individual courts where cases are initiated. These records include documents such as exhibits, motions, orders, briefs, pleadings, and notices created and collected during legal proceedings held within the county. Public court records, especially electronically stored case documents, can be accessed through computer terminals available in the offices of respective clerks.
The Rhode Island Judiciary Public Portal provides remote access to case information, including docket sheets and a register of actions. Users can view document filings, the parties involved, case events, and other case-related activities presented in chronological order.
