250 Benefit StreetProvidence, Rhode Island 02903(401) 222-4580 telephoneCommunityOutreach@courts.ri.gov
Once or twice a year, the Rhode Island Supreme Court hears cases in different venues throughout the state. This revived tradition called “riding the circuit” dates to colonial times when the courts and other bodies of government traveled from town to town, taking the people’s business directly to the people.
In April 2018, the Rhode Island Supreme Court heard cases at Lincoln High School, at left. When the Court rides circuit, the justices hear actual cases argued by Rhode Island attorneys. This is not simply an educational demonstration; it is a true court proceeding. While the public is always welcome to observe court sessions in the Licht Judicial Complex in Providence, these special sessions grant people the rare opportunity to see the appellate court process at work right in their own communities.
These traveling court sessions are part of the Judiciary’s ongoing effort to raise awareness and understanding of matters related to the third branch of government.