(a)  No member of a general or special court-martial may be absent or excused after the accused has been arraigned except for physical disability or as the result of a challenge or by order of the convening authority for good cause.

Terms Used In Rhode Island General Laws 30-13-31

  • Evidence: Information presented in testimony or in documents that is used to persuade the fact finder (judge or jury) to decide the case for one side or the other.
  • Trial: A hearing that takes place when the defendant pleads "not guilty" and witnesses are required to come to court to give evidence.

(b)  Whenever a general court-martial is reduced below five (5) members, the trial may not proceed unless the convening authority details new members sufficient in number to provide not less than five (5) members. When the new members have been sworn, the trial may proceed as if no evidence had previously been introduced.

(c)  Whenever a special court-martial is reduced below three (3) members, the trial may not proceed unless the convening authority details new members sufficient in number to provide not less than three (3) members. When the new members have been sworn, the trial shall proceed as if no evidence had previously been introduced.

History of Section.
G.L. 1956, § 30-13-31; P.L. 1962, ch. 82, § 1.