Best Child Custody Lawyers in Pawtucket, RI

Though television often portrays divorces as a war-zone of conflict, families often go through a divorce on much simpler terms. It is common for two people to agree that they are ready to move on and want to make the process as pain free as possible. Though it is possible to do on your own, enlisting the help of a divorce attorney is still encouraged. In matters of an uncontested divorce, I can still help you and your spouse draft the agreements for your divorce to make sure every topic is covered. Meditation is a common option for couples who are willing to compromise and work together in a divorce.

Mediation can be an incredibly effective way to negotiate the terms of a divorce without unnecessary conflict and court litigation. The process puts you in control, rather than leaving the terms and conditions up to a judge. Mediation is also advantageous for couples looking to resolve their differences and part on good terms, especially if children are involved.

Alimony, also called spousal support, is not required in Rhode Island. However, depending on your circumstances, the court may order spousal support for a certain length of time. They will consider things like the length of your marriage, the employment of you and your spouse, your standard of living, children, and the ability to pay alimony.

During your divorce, anything that is considered marital property will be divided equitably by the court. Equitably does not always mean fairly, however. Retirement accounts are considered marital property and the court will take into account the age and health of both parties, your occupations, and the contributions made to the retirement fund.

Rhode Island refers to legal separation as "a divorce from bed and board." This means that both spouses are technically still married, but are not living together. Legal separations typically last for one year and are a way for spouses to consider divorce without the influence of each other.