Rhode Island General Laws Title 28. Labor and Labor Relations § 28-35-16. Filing of answer--Additional parties

Within ten (10) days of the filing of the petition, the respondent or respondents shall file an answer to the petition with the workers' compensation court and send a copy of it to the petitioner, identifying the specific issues disputed by the respondent or respondents with reference to the matter in dispute as disclosed by the petition. No pleadings other than the petition and answer shall be required to bring the matter to a final determination. If the respondent or respondents does not file an answer, the matter shall proceed as though the allegations of the petition had been denied. The workers' compensation court may bring in additional parties by service of a copy of the petition by registered or certified mail.