A Claim Against the Government
R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-15-5 and R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-25 — a claim presented to the council, 40 days, and three years to sue
A person with a claim against a Rhode Island town or city presents a particular account of the claim, and how it arose, to the town council or the city council. If it is not satisfied by the treasurer within 40 days after it is presented, the person may bring an action against the treasurer.
Who handles this in Rhode Island: legal aid programs and the state offices, listed in the Rhode Island directory.
Three years. An action in tort against the state, a political subdivision, or a city or town is instituted within three years of the claim's accrual, and failing to sue within that time bars it.
Whether a claim is in tort, and how the town or city answers it, are questions for a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
Sources for this section (2)
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-15-5 — Presentment of claims against town or fire district
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-25 — Liability of the state; limitation of action
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Rhode Island attorney.