R.I. Gen. Laws § 4-13.1-12: Uniform summons — Mail-in fines — Prosecution.

The attorney general shall establish a uniform summons or citation to be used by state and municipal law enforcement agencies in the enforcement of this chapter. Fines of one hundred dollars ($100) or less may be paid by mail. All other fines or penalties shall require a court appearance. Any offense under this chapter may be prosecuted by complaint.