R.I. Gen. Laws § 28-37-6: Filing of claim — Hearing on questioned claim.

Any party claiming to be entitled to the benefits of this chapter or § 28-35-20 shall file a request with the director for a determination of his or her claim. If the director denies the claim, the party may file a petition at the workers’ compensation court that shall follow the procedure as outlined in chapter 35 of this title. In every case where payments may be ordered to be made from the workers’ compensation administrative fund, the director shall be a necessary party.