(a)  There is created a commission to be known as the special commission on criminal justice. The commission shall consist of nineteen (19) members: three (3) of whom shall be from the house of representatives, not more than two (2) of whom shall be from the same political party, to be appointed by the speaker; three (3) of whom shall be from the senate, not more than two (2) of whom shall be from the same political party, to be appointed by the president of the senate; eight (8) of whom shall be the chief justice of the supreme court, the presiding justice of the superior court, the chief judge of the family court, the chief judge of the district court, the attorney general, the public defender, the mental health advocate, and the state court administrator, all of whom shall serve ex officio; one of whom shall be a member of the bar association who has experience in criminal practice to be appointed by the governor; four (4) of whom shall be representative of the public to be appointed by the governor and to serve for terms of two (2) years. All ex officio members shall have the right to vote on all matters which are considered by the commission.

lawyer at desk

Ask a legal question, get an answer ASAP!
Click here to chat with a lawyer about your rights.

Terms Used In Rhode Island General Laws 12-26-1

  • Chief judge: The judge who has primary responsibility for the administration of a court but also decides cases; chief judges are determined by seniority.
  • Ex officio: Literally, by virtue of one's office.
  • Public defender: Represent defendants who can't afford an attorney in criminal matters.

(b)  Vacancies on the commission shall be filled in like manner as the original appointment.

History of Section.
P.L. 1977, ch. 113, § 1; P.L. 2001, ch. 180, § 12.