Rhode Island General Laws Title 11. Criminal Offenses § 11-37.2-1. Filing of complaint

(a) Proceedings under this chapter shall be filed, heard and determined in the district court of the division in which the moving party resides except when either party is a juvenile. Any proceedings under this chapter shall not preclude any other available civil or criminal remedies. A party filing a complaint under this chapter may do so without payment of any filing fee. There shall be no minimum residence requirements for the bringing of an action under this chapter.

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