R.I. Gen. Laws § 40.1-22-14: Retention of client for more than six (6) months.

In cases other than voluntary admissions, if it is determined that care and treatment for a period in excess of six (6) months is required, and no prior application for a hearing was made by the client or someone in his or her behalf, then to retain a client beyond the period, the official in charge of the facility to which the client was admitted shall notify the client, his or her spouse and nearest relative, if known, and the applicant petitioning for his or her original admission, if available, of the client’s right to a hearing on the issue of his or her continued retention. If no request for a hearing is made within ten (10) days of notification, the client may be retained for an additional six-month (6) period, subject thereafter to similar notifications, at least, annually.