Rhode Island courts decide child custody, alimony, and property division in divorce cases based on the best interests of the child for custody and equitable distribution principles for finances, with no major changes to these laws as of 2025. Rhode Island is a no-fault divorce state allowing filings on grounds of irreconcilable differences after a one-year residency requirement and a 75-day waiting period. Fault-based grounds like adultery or cruelty can influence awards but are not required for divorce.​
Child Custody
Courts prioritize the child’s best interests, considering factors like parental fitness, stability, and the child’s wishes if mature enough. Joint custody is favored when feasible, with decisions under R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-16 covering custody and support. No presumption exists for either parent; modifications require changed circumstances.​
Alimony
Alimony (spousal support) is discretionary and equitable, factoring in marriage length, income disparity, health, and contributions to the marriage. Awards can be temporary, rehabilitative, or permanent but typically end upon remarriage or cohabitation. Courts may order counsel fees alongside alimony per § 15-5-16.​
Property Division
Rhode Island follows equitable distribution, dividing marital property fairly but not necessarily equally based on factors like each spouse’s contributions, earning capacity, and needs. Separate property remains with its owner unless commingled. § 15-5-16.1 governs property assignment.
SOURCES
[1](https://law.justia.com/codes/rhode-island/title-15/chapter-15-5/)
[2](https://ridivorcemediationcenter.com/ri-divorce-resources/ri-divorce-laws-you-should-know/)
[3](https://www.susantperkins.com/rhode-island-divorce-laws/)
[4](https://hellodivorce.com/divorce-in-rhode-island/everything-to-know-about-divorce)
[5](https://www.divorcenet.com/resources/filing-for-divorce/rhode_island.htm)
