R.I. Comm'n Jud. Tenure & Discipline R. 15

If the Commission finds

that substantial evidence exists to support the charges, it shall set a time and place

for holding a public hearing. The Commission shall thereupon give a written notice

to the respondent advising him or her of the institution of public proceedings. Such

notice shall be given by prepaid registered or certified mail addressed to the

respondent at his or her last-known place of residence. The notice shall specify the

charges against the respondent and the alleged conduct upon which such charges are

based. The notice shall advise the respondent of the time when and place where the

public hearing will be held and shall be served upon the respondent not fewer than

thirty (30) days prior to the hearing. It shall also advise the respondent that he or she

shall file a written answer to the charges within twenty (20) days after the notice has

been served upon the respondent. Allegations contained in the notice that are not

denied in the answer shall be deemed admitted. The failure of the respondent to

submit to a medical examination requested by the Commission may be taken into

consideration in reaching a decision unless it appears that such failure was due to

circumstances beyond the control of the judge. The notice and the answer shall be

public documents except as otherwise provided in these rules.