R.I. Gen. Laws § 8-4-5: Appointment, terms, and salaries of superior court clerks.

In the month of May, 1971, and in the month of January in 1976 and in every fifth year thereafter, the presiding justice of the superior court, with the advice and consent of the senate, shall appoint a clerk of the superior court for the counties of Providence and Bristol, and a clerk of the superior court for each of the counties of Newport, Washington, and Kent. The persons so appointed shall hold office until the first day of February in the fifth year next after their appointment and until their successors are appointed and qualified. They shall be entitled to the same longevity salary increases as though they were in the classified service.