Rhode Island Code of Regulations
Title 280 - Department of Revenue
Chapter 30 - Division of Motor Vehicles
Subchapter 20 - Dealer Licensing and Registration
Part 1 - Dealers, Manufacturers, and Rental Licenses
Section 280-RICR-30-20-1.19 - Evidence

1. Irrelevant, immaterial or unduly repetitious evidence shall be excluded in all proceedings wherein evidence is taken. While the rules of evidence as applied in civil cases in the Superior Courts of this state shall be followed to the extent practicable, the Board shall not be bound by the technical evidentiary rules. Evidence not otherwise admissible may be admitted, unless precluded by statute, when necessary to ascertain facts not reasonably susceptible of proof under the rules, if the evidence is of a type commonly relied upon by reasonably prudent persons in the conduct of their affairs. The rules of privilege recognized by law shall apply. Objections to evidentiary offers may be made and shall be noted in the record.

1. In all proceedings wherein evidence is taken, notice may be taken of judicially cognizable facts. In addition, notice may be taken of generally recognized technical or scientific facts within the Board's specialized knowledge, including any report or data required by law or regulation to be filed with the Department.

1. At a hearing, the Board may employ the use of DMV employees, agents and consultants to assist in the evaluation of any evidence introduced at the hearing.

1. All testimony shall be under oath or by affirmation.

1. At the discretion of the Board, an adverse inference may be drawn by an assertion by a witness or a Party of his/her Fifth Amendment rights under the U.S. Constitution.