The bill amends Section 12-10-12 of the General Laws in Chapter 12-10, which pertains to the filing of complaints in district courts. The key change allows for the filing of complaints in criminal cases, including those against individuals previously convicted of a felony or private complaints, which were previously excluded. The court retains discretion over the duration of the filing period, which cannot exceed the maximum jail sentence allowed by law, and may impose conditions such as community service or restitution. If the defendant violates any conditions, the court can resurrect the complaint or impose sanctions.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific provisions for complaints involving domestic violence, including automatic quashing of the complaint if no violations occur during the filing period and expungement of records after three years if no further charges are filed. The bill also stipulates that any bail money not claimed at the time of expungement will be escheated to the state's general treasury. This act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2602: 12-10-12