Rhode Island Family Law Attorneys
At DearLegal, we connect you with experienced Rhode Island family law attorneys who can navigate Rhode Island’s equitable distribution and nominal hearing process. Whether you’re in Providence, Warwick, Cranston, Newport, or anywhere in the state, we’ll match you with the right attorney — at no cost to get started.
Why Do You Need a Family Law Attorney in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island allows divorce on irreconcilable differences (no-fault) under R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-3.1, plus 8 fault grounds (gross misbehavior, willful desertion for 5 years, drunkenness, neglect, extreme cruelty, etc.). Residency is 1 year in Rhode Island before filing (R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-12). Rhode Island has a unique nominal hearing process — a brief 5-minute hearing after which the case is scheduled for nominal final judgment after 90 days. Rhode Island is an equitable distribution state under R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-16.1 — marital property is divided equitably based on 9 factors. Custody is decided under best-interests factors at R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-16. Rhode Island uses Income Shares under the Rhode Island Child Support Guidelines (R.I. Family Court Administrative Order).
When Do You Need a Family Law Attorney in Rhode Island?
Our network includes Rhode Island family law attorneys who handle every kind of case, including:
Types of Family Law Cases in Rhode Island
From the moment you connect with a Rhode Island family law attorney, they go to work protecting your claim. The most common case types we handle:
Common Rhode Island Family Law Mistakes
Even a small misstep can hurt your case. Here’s what to avoid:
How Much Do Rhode Island Family Law Attorneys Cost?
Most matters are billed as a flat fee per petition or filing — fee depends on case complexity.
Family law cases in Rhode Island are not handled on contingency. Rhode Island Rule of Professional Conduct 1.5(d)(1) — patterned on ABA Model Rule 1.5(d) — prohibits contingent fees in domestic relations matters where the fee is contingent on securing a divorce or on the amount of alimony, support, or property settlement. Rhode Island family law attorneys charge hourly (billed against a retainer) or a flat fee for uncontested matters. Family Court may award fees in domestic relations.
What Can Your Rhode Island Family Law Compensation Include?
DearLegal is a legal referral service, not a law firm. We connect individuals with licensed attorneys who can evaluate their case. Nothing on this page constitutes legal advice. Results vary based on individual circumstances.
