East Greenwich Child Custody Attorney

At the law office of Kerry I. Rafanelli, we consider your child's well being a priority during your divorce. We will help you find ways to give your children the support they need while minimizing the upheaval that divorce can have on their lives.

East Greenwich child custody attorney Kerry Rafanelli has been guiding parents through divorce for more than 30 years. His dedication to and advocacy on behalf of children has earned him recognition in the Rhode Island legal community and Rhode Island Monthly magazine highlighted Kerry's work as a court-appointed guardian ad litem for children.

In Kerry's experience, the use of mediation to arrive at a child custody decision can greatly reduce the amount of conflict and stress parents feel when making delicate and difficult decisions. Whenever possible, consider this option.

But mediation only works if both parties agree to participate. If one party is hostile and uncooperative, then your case will likely need to go to court. Attorney Rafanelli is a zealous advocate in trial. He will work hard to protect your interests and your relationship with your child.

Physical and legal custody

Parents usually share custody, which means both parents will jointly make important decisions about their child's life. Joint custody works well for parents who can cooperate with each other (or who commit to learning how to cooperate better).

Physical custody is the term to describe where the child will live after the divorce. The "custodial" parent has the child more of the time; the "noncustodial" parent is usually granted visitation and pays child support to the custodial parent.

Anytime children will be moving back and forth between parental homes it's wise to have a parenting plan that details the schedule, duties and responsibilities of each parent. Learn more about what to include in your Rhode Island parenting plan.

Best interests of the child

Rhode Island courts make child custody decisions based on what is in the best interest of the children. Factors the judge will consider include:

  • The wishes of the parents
  • Preference of the child
  • Relationship of the child with each parent and the ability of each parent to support the child's relationship with the other parent
  • The child's overall environment
  • The mental, physical and moral fitness of each parent

Learn more about the factors a judge will consider in a Rhode Island child custody case.

Rhode Island child support lawyer protecting your parental rights

Consult an experienced Rhode Island child support lawyer who can advise you about your child custody rights. Call Kerry Rafanelli at 401-398-8388 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.