District Court District Court Welcome to the District Court homepage. The District Court is a court of general jurisdiction, hearing both criminal and civil matters. Being high volume and fast-paced, the court is often referred to as “the People’s Court.” The court has original jurisdiction of misdemeanors carrying up to one (1) year of jail time. Most felonies are also initially arraigned in the District Court where bail is set and monitored until the case proceeds to the Superior Court. Initial bail hearings on felonies are also conducted in the District Court. About the District Court It looks like your browser does not have JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript and try again. It looks like your browser does not have JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript and try again. Quick Links 1Calendars and Public Access to Court Hearings1Court Rules, General Laws, and Ordinances1Electronic Filing Guidelines1Forms1Make Payments1Mental Health Treatment Calendar 1Rhode Island Judiciary Public PortalFind case information1Rhode Island Judiciary Public Portal for Attorneys and External Agencies Key Contacts Contact the Court