Divorce in Rhode Island
State-specific overview · Family Law
Rhode Island allows no-fault divorce on grounds of irreconcilable differences without a waiting period.
How Rhode Island treats Divorce
Rhode Island permits divorce on no-fault grounds (irreconcilable differences) without requiring a separation period or waiting period, making it one of the faster states for uncontested divorce. The state also recognizes fault-based grounds including adultery, cruelty, and desertion if a spouse chooses to pursue them. Rhode Island courts divide marital property equitably, considering factors such as the length of marriage, each party's contribution to the marital estate, and the economic circumstances of each spouse.
The general definition of Divorce
The legal dissolution of a marriage, ending the spouses' rights and responsibilities to each other.
Divorce is the legal process by which a married couple ends their marriage. It involves a court officially terminating the marriage and typically requires decisions about property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support. The process can be contested, where the spouses disagree on terms, or uncontested, where they agree on the major issues. Once a divorce is finalized, both parties are free to remarry and are no longer legally responsible for each other.
Read the full Divorce entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.