R.I. Super. Ct. R. Crim. P. 26.2

As amended through June 7, 2024

Rule 26.2 - Opening Statements.

Before any evidence is offered at trial, the State may make an opening statement. If a defendant is permitted to make an opening statement, the defendant may do so just prior to the introduction of evidence by the State, or just prior to presenting the defendant's case.

R.I. Super. Ct. R. Crim. P. 26.2

Last amended by Order dated June 22, 2017, effective 9/5/2017.

1972 Notes

This rule, which is not contained in the federal rules, permits a defendant to make an opening statement just prior to the introduction of evidence by the State (typically, just after the prosecution's opening statement) or just before presenting his defense. This option is helpful in those instances where a defendant is uncertain at the commencement of trial whether he will put in a case.