Rhode Island General Laws 12-12-12. Description of written instruments
If an allegation relative to a written instrument which consists wholly or in part of writing, print, or figures is necessary in any indictment, information, or complaint, the indictment, information, or complaint may describe the instrument by any name or designation by which it is usually known, or by its purport, without setting out a copy or facsimile of the whole or of any part; and no variance between the recital or description and the instrument produced at the trial shall be material if the identity of the instrument is evident and its purport is sufficiently described to prevent prejudice to the defendant.
History of Section.
G.L. 1909, ch. 354, § 6; P.L. 1915, ch. 1261, § 1; G.L. 1923, ch. 407, § 6; G.L. 1938, ch. 625, § 6; G.L. 1956, § 12-12-12; P.L. 1974, ch. 118, § 11.
Terms Used In Rhode Island General Laws 12-12-12
- Allegation: something that someone says happened.
- Complaint: A written statement by the plaintiff stating the wrongs allegedly committed by the defendant.
- Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
- Indictment: The formal charge issued by a grand jury stating that there is enough evidence that the defendant committed the crime to justify having a trial; it is used primarily for felonies.
- Trial: A hearing that takes place when the defendant pleads "not guilty" and witnesses are required to come to court to give evidence.