How to Get Yourself Divorced in RI
How to Get Divorced in Rhode Island (Without a Lawyer Screaming at You)
Thinking about divorce but want to avoid a courtroom showdown or a huge legal bill? Good news: if your divorce is uncontested, you may not need a lawyer at all. Rhode Island divorce laws allow self-representation if both parties are in agreement and you follow the process correctly. Here’s how the Rhode Island divorce process works—broken down step-by-step so you can understand your options and make informed choices.
Step 1: Agree on Everything (Yes, Everything)
You and your spouse must agree on all key issues: child custody, visitation, property division, child support, health insurance, alimony, and more. Without full agreement, you’re entering the world of contested divorces, and handling it on your own might not be the best plan. Learn more about parenting time and why clear agreements matter.
Step 2: Meet the Residency Requirement
To file for divorce in Rhode Island, one of you must have lived in the state for at least one full year. This residency requirement must be met before the court will even hear your case.
Step 3: File for Divorce
Once you meet the residency rules and have an agreement in place, you’re ready to file. This includes completing forms like the Complaint for Divorce, Entry of Appearance, DR-6 financial statements, and more. Here’s our guide on how to file for divorce in Rhode Island to help you get started.
Step 4: Know the Grounds for Divorce
Most couples filing on their own choose “irreconcilable differences” as the no-fault grounds for divorce. It’s the simplest route. Other options like fault divorce exist, but they often complicate the process.
Step 5: Understand the Court Hearing Process
You’ll testify before a judge about your residency, marriage breakdown, and terms of your agreement. You may also need witnesses—especially if your spouse isn’t attending the hearing. The court wants to confirm that your marriage has truly broken down for a meaningful period of time and that you’re not reconciling anytime soon.
Step 6: Handle Child Custody and Support
If children are involved, you’ll need to explain the parenting plan, who has physical placement, and whether joint custody is agreed upon. Use the correct child support worksheet (sole or shared placement) and know what to say about tax claims and visitation rights.
Step 7: Address Health Insurance and Financial Support
Confirm who carries health insurance and whether coverage continues after divorce. If alimony is waived, both parties must testify that they can support themselves—something the court takes seriously.
Step 8: Divide Property and Debt
The judge will want clarity on who gets what: real estate, bank accounts, cars, and debts. If retirement accounts are being split, you’ll need a QDRO (Qualified Domestic Relations Order). Not sure what qualifies as marital property? Check out our insights on legal document prep and property division.
Step 9: Finalize Your Divorce
Once the judge approves your testimony and paperwork, you’ll receive a Decision Pending Entry of Final Judgment. After 90 days, you’ll file your Final Decree of Divorce and your divorce will be official. That’s the full Rhode Island divorce process—start to finish.
Want a Simpler, Smarter Way to Get Divorced?
At The Law Office of Timothy M. Sweet, we know how to simplify divorce. If you’d rather not go it alone, or your case has complications, our No Court Conflict Resolution process can help you save time, money, and stress. We offer guidance, representation, and flexible legal services to meet you where you are.
Need More Help?
If you’re curious about costs or what comes next, visit our pages on how your legal fee is used or explore the cost of hiring a family law attorney. Then, when you’re ready, book your $250 consultation and let’s talk about your next step.