DIVORCE
& DIVORCE
MEDIATION
How We Can Help
Mediation
Kerry I. Rafanelli emphasizes mediation as an effective way to reach win-win solutions to disputes
and challenging issues.
Attorney Rafanelli works with financial expert Jane McAuliffe, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, to
craft a post-divorce financial plan for clients.
Divorce
Discover your options if you are considering filing for divorce in Rhode Island. Attorney Rafanelli has three decades experience representing clients in all phases of divorce.
Attorney Profile
Kerry I. Rafanelli
Kerry I. Rafanelli has served the Rhode Island community since 1983. Born and raised in Rhode Island, Kerry remained close to home — earning his B.S. from Providence College and his J.D. from New England School of Law. He decided to follow in his father’s footsteps — an attorney who could always see both sides — and strives to practice with the same level of ethics and compassion.
As an experienced Mediator, Attorney Kerry I. Rafanelli fosters healthy communication as a neutral third-party between the parties; and provides the education, tools and support to help clients make rational, informed decisions to effectively come to an amicable agreement. His role in the Mediation process is to focus on all aspects of Rhode Island family law, as well as drafting the Marital Settlement Agreement, accurately capturing the parties’ mutual agreements on their behalf.
The Kent County Bar Association recognized Kerry’s skills by bestowing him with the prestigious Lawyer of the Year Award in 1999.
Attorney Awards
what our clients say
Kerry represented me in a divorce case. He was professional and friendly right from the beginning. He helped me understand the process and clearly answered any questions or concerns whenever I had any. He was very prompt with responses. I definitely recommend Kerry to anyone needing a good lawyer.
- Raymond K.
From the first meeting to the last correspondence you will not be sorry. Kerry makes you feel right at home and comfortable. He is always there for you and can explain issues in layman’s terms and not in confusing legal jargon. Every issue is handled professionally and in a timely manner, not like the attorney on the other side. Friend for life, and Friar too.
- Dave T.
I have to say Kerry was great at handling my divorce which could have been the messiest thing in RI, he handled my wife’s lawyer very well, showed compassion and explained to me my options. I trust Kerry with all of my legal affairs and I do plan on hiring him again.
- Fares L.
I was skeptical that mediation would work, but Kerry found a way to thread the needle and get an agreement without me having to go fight it out in court. Happy I saved so much money and that it worked! If anyone can get divorce mediation to work I think it is this lawyer.
- Lee G.
For divorce mediation Kerry was absolutely terrific for us. We had several areas that we tricky to deal with and I thought there was a good chance we would have to end up in litigation. Attorney Rafanelli crafted and agreement that met both our needs so we reached an agreement we both could sign.
- Sabrina P.
divorce advice
Smart Divorce podcast
with Jane McAuliffe, CDFA
all questions
Frequently
Asked Questions
Consult an experienced Rhode Island divorce attorney for answers to your questions. Call Kerry I. Rafanelli, Attorney at Law, at 401-398-8388 or contact us online to schedule your consultation at our East Greenwich law office.
Should I retain a lawyer if my fiancé's attorney has already drawn up a prenuptial agreement?
Both parties to a prenuptial agreement should be represented so that you can feel confident that the contract is fair to you.
Am I considered the parent once my adoption of a child is finalized?
At the completion of your adoption, you acquire all the rights and responsibilities of a parent–including making important childrearing decisions and providing your child with financial support. Your child gains all the rights as your natural children would have involving inheritance, immigration, government benefits and healthcare coverage.
Am I entitled to visitation rights as soon as I affirm my paternity of my child?
In most cases, you are entitled to visitation with your child, but you must file a petition with the court requesting visitation.
Am I entitled to child support as soon as the father's paternity is positively affirmed?
You are entitled to financial support from the father, but you must file a petition with the court requesting child support. You may be entitled to support from previous years as well.
What is the difference between guardianship and adoption?
Adoptive parents acquire all the rights of natural parents. Guardians have legal and physical custody, but are not considered the parents of the child and must periodically appear before the court to give updates on the child’s status. In some cases, the birth parents may retain their parental rights.
Is my former spouse permitted to move my child to another state?
A custodial parent must petition the court to relocate with your child to another state. You can object to the move and present evidence at a court hearing.
What does the court consider in relocation cases?
The court considers what is in the best interest of your child — including financial advantages of the move, educational opportunities, the existence of extended family in both locations, the nature of the child’s relationship with each parent, and the logistics of visitation with the noncustodial parent.
How can I learn more about family law?
Call Kerry I. Rafanelli, Attorney at Law or contact us online to schedule your no-obligation, free consultation and get the answers to all of your family law questions.
Contact Us
Kerry Rafanelli,
Attorney At Law
OUR ADDRESS:
Kerry I Rafanelli, Attorney at Law
670 Main Street, Suite C-4
East Greenwich, RI 02818
PHONE NO.
401-398-8388
FAX NO.
401-398-8399
Fill the Form Below
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