§ 12-17-3. Waiver of jury trial — Special findings and rulings.
In all criminal cases the accused may, if he or she shall so elect and with the leave of the court, waive a trial by jury, and in those cases the court shall have jurisdiction to hear and try the cause without a jury and render judgment and pass sentence. In cases so tried the court shall, upon request of the accused, make special finding upon any issue of fact and special ruling upon any question of law arising in the case.
History of Section.G.L. 1923, ch. 407, § 78; P.L. 1929, ch. 1335, § 1; G.L. 1938, ch. 625, § 71; G.L. 1956, § 12-17-3.
Structure Rhode Island General Laws
Section 12-17-1. - Trial in superior court only on indictment, information, or appeal — Venue.
Section 12-17-2. - “Not guilty” plea inferred.
Section 12-17-3. - Waiver of jury trial — Special findings and rulings.
Section 12-17-5. - Continuance of trial to conclusion after opening to jury.
Section 12-17-6. - Control and disposition of property used as evidence.
Section 12-17-7. - Release of property held as evidence after escape of defendant.
Section 12-17-8. - Compulsory process for defense witnesses.
Section 12-17-9. - Defendant as witness.
Section 12-17-10. - Defendant’s spouse as witness.
Section 12-17-10.1. - Spouse as witness in domestic or child abuse actions.
Section 12-17-11. - Commitment of witness on presumption of perjury.
Section 12-17-12. - Detention of evidence as to perjury.
Section 12-17-13. - Jury ordered not to separate.
Section 12-17-14. - Conviction of lesser-included offense or attempt.
Section 12-17-15. - Compelling evidence in criminal proceedings — Immunity.
Section 12-17-16. - Defendant’s right of discovery.
Section 12-17-17. - Restrictions on the defense of provocation.
Section 12-17-18. - Restrictions on the defense of diminished capacity.
Section 12-17-19. - Restrictions on the defense of self-defense.