Rhode Island Divorce Lawyers: Find the Support You Need Near You

Divorce in Rhode Island can be emotionally difficult and legally complex — especially when decisions about custody, financial stability, and your long-term future are on the line. Whether you anticipate a high-conflict case or hope to settle matters cooperatively, the right divorce lawyer can help you protect your interests and move forward with confidence.

Rhode Island offers both no-fault and fault-based divorce options and uses an equitable distribution model for dividing marital property. With important decisions involving support, assets, and parenting arrangements, an experienced Rhode Island divorce lawyer can provide clarity and skilled advocacy throughout the process.

Below is a helpful overview of Rhode Island divorce laws, when to consider hiring an attorney, and a vetted list of reputable family-law attorneys across the state.

Understanding Divorce in Rhode Island

Residency Requirement

To file for divorce in Rhode Island:

• One spouse must live in the state for at least 1 year before filing.

Grounds for Divorce

Rhode Island allows:

• No-fault divorce: irreconcilable differences

• Fault-based grounds: adultery, cruelty, substance abuse, desertion, impotence

Most couples file no-fault due to simplicity and reduced conflict.

Property Division

Rhode Island uses equitable distribution, meaning:

• Marital assets are divided fairly, not necessarily 50/50

• Separate property generally remains with the original owner

Courts evaluate income, contributions, earning potential, and financial needs.

Child Custody

Custody decisions follow the best interests of the child, including:

• Parent-child relationships

• Stability in home and school life

• Parental capacity to meet emotional and physical needs

• Ability to cooperate

• Safety concerns or history of abuse

Spousal Support & Child Support

Rhode Island allows various types of alimony depending on:

• Length of marriage

• Income disparity

• Earning capacity

• Age and health

Child support follows state guideline formulas.

When You May Need a Rhode Island Divorce Lawyer

Hiring an attorney may be essential if:

• You and your spouse disagree on custody or visitation

• You have substantial marital assets or real estate

• One spouse earns significantly more

• You suspect hidden income or financial misrepresentation

• Domestic violence or control issues are present

• Your spouse hired an attorney

• You want strong negotiation or litigation support

Even cooperative divorces benefit from legal guidance to avoid long-term mistakes.

Rhode Island Uncontested Divorce Options

If you and your spouse agree on all major issues, you may qualify for a simplified uncontested divorce, which is faster and more affordable.

Divorce.com helps Rhode Island couples:

• Prepare accurate, state-specific divorce forms

• Avoid filing errors that cause delays

• File quickly and affordably

• Receive support throughout the process

This option works best for low-conflict couples seeking a smooth resolution.

⭐ Rhode Island Divorce Lawyers by Metro Area

Curated list of trusted firms statewide.

Providence

• Kirshenbaum Law Associates

• Lynch & Pine

Warwick

• Law Offices of Howe & Garside

• McIntyre Tate LLP

Cranston

• Schofield Law Group

• Marasco & Nesselbush

Pawtucket

• Law Office of George M. Prescott

• Palmisano & Associates

Newport

• Sayer Regan & Thayer LLP

• Houlihan, Managhan & Kyle, LLP