Court Costs and Consequences: A Qualitative Inquiry into Rhode Island's Legislative Reform

• In Event: Beyond the Debt: Qualitative Insights into Legal Financial Burdens and the Ongoing Quest for Reform

Abstract

This study evaluates the implementation of new legislation in Rhode Island aimed at reducing legal financial obligations for indigent individuals. It analyzes how indigency is perceived and the remission criteria used by court officials, comparing actual practice with statutory intent. Data from court observations and interviews with legislators, clerks, and judges identify three key themes: automatic cost remission for defendants with public defenders, the requirement for defendants to "provide proof" for remission requests, and the denial of expungement petitions due to unpaid court costs. The findings highlight the dynamic challenges of applying state legislation at the local level.

Authors

• Brittany Martin, University of Rhode Island

• Cassandra Crumb, University of Rhode Island