How Long Does a Divorce Take in Rhode Island

May 5, 2023 Amanda

How Long Does a Divorce Take in Rhode Island

Grounds for Divorce	Minimum Timeframe	Notes
No-Fault Divorce	60 days	Timeframe begins after filing
Uncontested Divorce	90 days	Timeframe begins after filing and serving the spouse
Contested Divorce	6-12 months or longer	Depends on the complexity of the case and court backlog

Overview of Divorce in Rhode Island

Here are some key things to keep in mind when considering a divorce in Rhode Island:

Rhode Island is considered a “no-fault” divorce state, which means that neither party needs to prove fault or wrongdoing by the other spouse. Instead, couples can simply cite irreconcilable differences as the reason for seeking a divorce.
The length of time it takes to complete a divorce in Rhode Island can vary depending on several factors. These may include the complexity of your case (e.g., whether you have children or significant assets), how quickly you and your spouse can come to agreements on various issues related to the divorce settlement (such as property division or child custody), and how busy the courts are at any given time.

Definition of Divorce

Before delving into the specifics of divorce in Rhode Island, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what divorce actually means. Here are some key points:

Divorce is a legal process that formally ends a marriage or civil union.
In order to obtain a divorce, one or both spouses must typically file a petition with their local court and go through several steps, including negotiations on issues like property division, alimony, child custody and support.
If the couple cannot come to an agreement on these matters, they may need to go to trial where a judge will make decisions for them based on state law and other relevant factors.

Types of Divorce in Rhode Island

In addition, Rhode Island recognizes two grounds for filing for a fault-based divorce:

Impotence
Criminal conviction with imprisonment of five years or more

Note that these grounds are rarely used today, since most couples choose no-fault divorces instead.

Grounds for Divorce in Rhode Island

Adultery
Cruel and inhuman treatment
Willful desertion (meaning one spouse left without justification and with no intention of returning)
Habitual drunkenness or drug use
Gross neglect of duty (e.g., failure to provide financial support)

Note that proving fault can be difficult and may require significant evidence-gathering and legal support.

Residency Requirements

Note that if you or your spouse is a member of the military and stationed in Rhode Island, you may still be considered a resident even if you don’t technically live there. Additionally, if neither spouse meets the residency requirement but all other aspects of their case are related to Rhode Island (e.g., property located within the state), they may still be able to file for divorce there.

Steps Involved in Divorce Process in Rhode Island

The timeline for each of these steps can vary widely depending on factors such as how amicable or contentious the split is between you and your spouse. It’s always recommended that you consult with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through this process step-by-step.

Filing for Divorce

Note that if you decide to work with an attorney throughout the divorce process (which is recommended), they can help guide you through each step of these procedures and ensure that everything is handled properly and efficiently.

Service of Process

Another important aspect of getting a divorce in Rhode Island is service of process, which refers to the legal process of delivering court papers to the other party involved in the case. Here’s what you need to know:

In order for a divorce proceeding to begin, one spouse must serve the other with a copy of the divorce petition and related documents.
The serving spouse cannot personally deliver these papers; instead, they will typically hire a professional process server or ask someone over age 18 who is not involved in the case (e.g., a friend or relative) to do it on their behalf.
If the other party cannot be located or refuses to accept service, alternative methods may be used such as mailing or publication in a newspaper.

Response and Answer

Once a spouse files for divorce in Rhode Island, the other spouse will have the opportunity to respond and answer to the divorce petition. Here’s what you need to know:

The responding spouse has 20 days from being served with the divorce papers to file an answer with the court.
In their answer, they can either agree or disagree with the issues raised by their spouse in the original petition (such as property division or custody arrangements).
If both spouses are able to come to an agreement on all of these issues, they may be able to submit a joint petition for divorce which can expedite the process.

Discovery and Negotiation

The next step in the divorce process is typically negotiation. During this phase, both spouses will work with their attorneys (if they have them) or on their own to try to come to an agreement on various issues related to property division, child custody and support, alimony payments, etc. Here are some things you should know about negotiation:

Negotiation may take place through direct communication between the spouses or through mediation sessions with a neutral third party.
If agreements cannot be reached during negotiations or mediation sessions alone then litigation becomes necessary where lawyers submit evidence & make arguments before judge who makes all decisions for couple based on law & facts presented.

Trial and Judgment

Once all issues are resolved, either through mutual agreement or a trial, the court will issue a final judgment of divorce. Here are some key things to know about this process in Rhode Island:

The final judgment may include details on property division, alimony (if applicable), child custody and support arrangements.
The judge may also order one party to pay the other party’s attorney fees and court costs if they find that one spouse was at fault for the divorce or acted unreasonably during the proceedings.
After the judgment is issued, there is typically a waiting period before it becomes official. In Rhode Island, this waiting period is generally three months from the date of filing (although it can be longer in certain cases).

Factors Affecting the Duration of Divorce in Rhode Island

There are several factors that can affect the length of time it takes to complete a divorce in Rhode Island. Here are some key ones:

The complexity of your case: If you and your spouse have significant assets, own a business together, or have children together, it may take longer to reach agreements on issues related to property division, alimony, child custody and support.
Your ability to work with your spouse: If you and your spouse are able to communicate effectively and come to agreements on these matters relatively quickly, the process will likely be shorter than if there is a lot of conflict or disagreement between you.
Court backlog: Depending on how busy the courts are at any given time, it may take longer for your case to be heard or for decisions to be made by a judge. This can sometimes add months (or even years) onto the total length of the divorce process.

Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce

If you’re considering getting divorced in Rhode Island, it’s important to understand which type of divorce may be right for your situation. Factors that can influence this decision include the complexity of your case (e.g., whether you have children or significant assets) and how amicable your relationship with your spouse is.

Complexity of the Case

Overall, it’s important to remember that every divorce case is unique and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to how long a divorce will take. If you’re considering filing for divorce in Rhode Island, consulting with an experienced attorney can help give you a better sense of what timeline might be realistic based on your specific situation.

Court Availability

When it comes to getting a divorce in Rhode Island, another factor that can impact the length of time it takes is court availability. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Rhode Island has five main family courts located throughout the state: Kent County, Newport County, Providence County, Washington County and Bristol Family Court.
The number of cases each court handles can vary widely depending on location and time of year, which may affect how quickly your divorce case moves through the system.
In addition to family court judges, Rhode Island also offers mediation services for couples who wish to try to work out their differences outside of court. This can be an effective way to reach a settlement more quickly and avoid lengthy courtroom battles.

Willingness of the Parties to Cooperate

The willingness of the parties to cooperate is a major factor that can affect how long it takes to finalize a divorce in Rhode Island. Here are some things to consider:

If both spouses are able and willing to work together, they may be able to reach agreements on key issues more quickly, which can help speed up the overall process.
On the other hand, if one or both parties refuse to cooperate or become combative during negotiations, this can significantly prolong the process and may require court intervention.
Mediation or collaborative divorce may be helpful options for couples who want to avoid going through an adversarial legal battle. These methods involve working with trained professionals who can help facilitate discussions and find mutually agreeable solutions outside of court.

Average Time Frame for Divorce in Rhode Island

Overall, it’s difficult to give an exact timeframe for how long your particular divorce may take since every situation is unique. It’s important to work with an experienced attorney who can guide you through each step of the process and help ensure that your rights are protected throughout.

Time Frame for Uncontested Divorce

If you have minor children or other more complex issues that require negotiation, the timeline for an uncontested divorce will likely take longer. However, it is still generally faster than going through a contested divorce in court. Factors that can affect the time frame include:

The amount of time it takes for both parties to come to agreement on key issues like child custody and support
The number of hearings required in front of a judge
The backlog of cases at your local family court

Time Frame for Contested Divorce

If you’re considering a divorce in Rhode Island, it’s important to understand that the time frame for a contested divorce can vary depending on several factors. Here are some key points:

A contested divorce is one where the couple cannot come to an agreement on all issues related to their separation and therefore must go through litigation in court.
In Rhode Island, the length of time it takes to finalize a contested divorce can range from several months to more than a year.
The specific timeline will depend on factors like how busy the courts are at any given time, how complex your case is (e.g., if you have children or significant assets), and whether you and your spouse can reach agreements outside of court or require assistance from lawyers or mediators.

Strategies for Reducing Divorce Time Frame in Rhode Island

While the length of a divorce case in Rhode Island can vary based on many factors, there are several strategies you can use to help minimize the time it takes:

Hire an experienced divorce lawyer who knows how to navigate Rhode Island’s family court system. A good attorney can help ensure that your case is handled efficiently and effectively.
Be willing to compromise. The more you and your spouse can agree on things like property division, alimony, and child custody upfront, the less time it will take for your case to be resolved.
Avoid unnecessary delays by responding promptly to any requests or deadlines set by the court or your attorney. Missing deadlines or failing to provide requested information could cause significant delays in your case.

Hiring an Experienced Attorney

Given the complexity of divorce proceedings in Rhode Island, it’s highly recommended that you hire an experienced attorney to help guide you through the process. Here are some reasons why:

An attorney can explain your legal rights and obligations under state law, which may be complicated or unclear without expert guidance.
An attorney can help ensure that all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time, reducing the risk of costly delays or mistakes.
If your case goes to trial, an attorney can represent you in court and make a persuasive case for why certain outcomes (e.g., custody arrangements) would be in your best interests.

To find a qualified divorce lawyer in Rhode Island, consider asking friends or family members for referrals or searching online directories such as FindLaw.com. Be sure to research any prospective lawyers carefully and read reviews from previous clients before making a final decision.

Attempting Mediation or Collaborative Divorce

Before filing for a divorce in Rhode Island, couples are encouraged to attempt mediation or collaborative divorce. Here’s what you need to know about these processes:

Mediation involves the couple working with a neutral third-party mediator who helps them reach an agreement on issues like property division and child custody.
In contrast, collaborative divorce involves each spouse hiring their own attorney who works together in a series of meetings with the couple to negotiate and resolve disputes out of court.
Both mediation and collaborative divorce can be effective ways for couples to avoid costly litigation and come up with solutions that work best for everyone involved.

Cooperating with Your Spouse

In general, the more cooperative you can be during the divorce process, the faster and smoother it is likely to go. This is especially true if you have children together or significant assets that need to be divided fairly between both parties.

Being Prepared for Each Step in the Process

Divorce can be a complex and emotional process, so it’s important to know what to expect at each step along the way. Here are some tips for being prepared:

Consult with an experienced divorce attorney in Rhode Island who can help you understand your legal rights and obligations throughout the process.
Gather important documents related to your marriage, such as tax returns, bank statements, property deeds, and any prenuptial agreements that may exist.
Be prepared to negotiate with your spouse on issues like child custody, alimony payments, and asset division. It may be helpful to work with a mediator or other neutral third party if you’re having trouble reaching agreements.

You should also be aware of the basic steps involved in a Rhode Island divorce:

Filing: The first step is typically filing a petition for divorce with the court in your county. This document will outline why you’re seeking a divorce and what you hope to achieve through the process.
Serving: Once you’ve filed your petition, you’ll need to serve it on your spouse (or have them served by a professional process server).
Negotiating: After both parties have been served and responded appropriately (an answer must be filed within twenty days), negotiations begin regarding issues such as child custody arrangements or spousal support payments.
Trial: If no agreement has been reached after negotiation attempts fail then trial becomes necessary where court makes final decisions about how assets will be divided up among spouses etc..

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you are considering divorce in Rhode Island, it’s important to understand the state’s laws and procedures so that you can make informed decisions throughout the process. Here are some key takeaways:

Rhode Island is a no-fault divorce state.
The length of time it takes to complete a divorce in Rhode Island varies depending on many factors, such as the complexity of your case and how busy the courts are at any given time.
If you need legal advice or representation during your divorce proceedings, consider consulting with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through the process and help protect your rights.

Recap of Main Points

If you’re considering filing for divorce in Rhode Island or have already begun the process, it’s important to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can help guide you through each step and ensure your rights are protected throughout.

Final Thoughts and Advice

Going through a divorce can be a difficult and emotional experience. Here are some final thoughts and advice to keep in mind:

It’s important to work with an experienced attorney who can help guide you through the process, protect your rights, and advocate on your behalf.
Be prepared for the fact that divorce cases can take time to resolve – sometimes months or even years. Try to stay patient and focus on achieving a fair outcome rather than rushing things along.
If you have children, prioritize their well-being throughout the process. Consider working with a mediator or family therapist if necessary to help minimize conflict and ensure that your children’s needs are being met.

FAQ on ‘How Long Does a Divorce Take in Rhode Island’

Q: Is there a waiting period for a divorce in Rhode Island?

A: Yes, there is a mandatory waiting period for all divorces in Rhode Island. After filing for divorce, the petitioner must wait at least 90 days before the final hearing can take place.

Q: What is a no-fault divorce, and how long does it take to get one in Rhode Island?

A: A no-fault divorce means that neither party is being blamed or held responsible for the dissolution of the marriage. In Rhode Island, no-fault divorces are typically quicker than fault-based divorces because they don’t require as much evidence or testimony. The length of time it takes to get a no-fault divorce in Rhode Island depends on the circumstances but usually falls within three to six months.

Q: Can I file for divorce without hiring an attorney?

A: Yes, you can represent yourself in court if you choose to do so. However, it’s recommended that you hire an attorney who specializes in family law to guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.

Q: What if my spouse doesn’t agree to the divorce?

A: If your spouse doesn’t agree to the divorce, it can complicate the process and potentially lengthen the time it takes to finalize the divorce. However, Rhode Island is a “no-fault” state, which means that one party can file for divorce without the other’s consent. The court will still require proof that the marriage has irretrievably broken down, but this can often be established through testimony and evidence.