Establishes a set service rate of seventy dollars ($70.00) for the service of all writs, citations or subpoenas.

Rhode Island Bill: Fixed $70 Fee for Serving Legal Documents

This bill would establish a flat fee of $70 for serving legal documents — specifically writs, citations, and subpoenas — in Rhode Island. "Service" refers to the official process of delivering legal papers to a person, notifying them that they are involved in a court case or are required to appear in court. Currently, fees for this service may vary, and this bill would standardize the rate across the board at $70.

The bill would affect anyone involved in civil legal proceedings in Rhode Island, including individuals, businesses, and attorneys who need to have legal documents officially delivered to another party. It would also affect the sheriffs, constables, or process servers responsible for carrying out that delivery, as their compensation for this task would be set at a uniform rate.

By locking in a single, consistent fee, the bill aims to make the cost of serving legal documents more predictable for people navigating the court system. Whether this rate represents an increase or decrease from current practice would depend on what is being charged in various situations today. The bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee, where it is scheduled for a hearing and further consideration.