If you are considering getting a divorce in Rhode Island, it is important to understand the process. The first step is to file a complaint for divorce with the clerk of the family court. The other party will then be served with the complaint and have 20 days to file an answer. If both parties agree on all terms of the divorce, they may file for an uncontested divorce. Otherwise, they will need to go through the contested divorce process. During the divorce proceedings, the court will determine issues such as child custody, child support, alimony, and division of property. Once the court makes its final decision, a divorce decree is issued and both parties are legally divorced.

The divorce process in Rhode Island is as follows:
- The filing party files a complaint for divorce with the clerk of the family court.
- The other party is served with the complaint and has 20 days to file an answer.
- If both parties agree on all terms of the divorce, they may file for an uncontested divorce. Otherwise, they will need to go through the contested divorce process.
- During the divorce proceedings, the court will determine issues such as child custody, child support, alimony, and division of property.
- Once the court makes its final decision, a divorce decree is issued and both parties are legally divorced.
How long does it typically take to get divorced in Rhode Island?
The divorce process in Rhode Island can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the circumstances. If the parties can agree on all terms of the divorce, they may be able to file for an uncontested divorce, which is typically quicker than a contested divorce. Otherwise, the length of time it takes to get divorced in Rhode Island will depend on how complex the issues are and how long it takes for the court to reach a decision.
In Rhode Island, there are two types of divorce: fault-based and no-fault. Fault-based divorce requires one party to prove that the other party is at fault for the marriage breakdown. The grounds for fault-based divorce in Rhode Island include adultery, desertion, physical or mental abuse, and drug addiction. No-fault divorce does not require one party to prove that the other party’s at fault for the marriage breakdown. Instead, it simply requires that the parties have irreconcilable differences.
Either spouse can file for divorce on the grounds of irreconcilable differences. To do this, the filing spouse must state in the divorce complaint that there are irreconcilable differences between the parties. The other spouse will then have 20 days to file an answer. If both parties agree on all terms of the divorce, they may file for an uncontested divorce. Otherwise, they will need to go through the contest.
What information will you need to file for a divorce?
In order to file for a divorce in Rhode Island, you will need the following information:
- The full names and addresses of both parties.
- The date of marriage.
- The grounds for divorce.
- A list of all assets and debts.
- A proposed parenting plan (if there are minor children).
- A proposed division of property and assets.
- Financial information, including income, expenses, and asset information.
- Any relevant documents, such as a prenuptial agreement or divorce decree from a previous marriage.
Once you have gathered all of the required information, you will need to file a complaint for divorce with the clerk of the family court.
RI Immigration & Family Law: Attorneys you can trust
If you are facing divorce in Rhode Island, it is important to have an experienced and knowledgeable attorney on your side. At RI Immigration & Family Law, we understand the challenges that you are facing and we are here to help. We have a team of experienced attorneys who are familiar with the divorce process in Rhode Island and who can help you navigate the legal system. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.