In directing the district courts to make orders and rules for small claims cases, this statute also authorizes the chief judges to establish systems of mandatory mediation for such cases.
Rhode Island Statute 10-16-5: Small claims mandatory mediation
State of Rhode Island General Assembly. Jan. 1, 1970http://webserver.rilin.state.ri.us/Statutes/TITLE10/10-16/10-16-5.HTM