R.I. Gen. Laws § 27-16-12: Discretionary postponement of proceedings.

The court in any action, suit, or proceeding in which service is made in the manner provided in § 27-16-6 or § 27-16-7 may, in its discretion, order any postponement as may be necessary to afford the defendant reasonable opportunity to comply with the provisions of § 27-16-10 and to defend the action.