Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law

Answers from experienced East Greenwich lawyer

Knowledge gives you the power to make sound decisions. For this reason, Kerry I. Rafanelli, Attorney at Law makes educating clients about the law a primary component in our family law practice. Read our responses to frequently asked questions and then schedule a no-obligation, free consultation to discuss your case in detail. Our law firm has helped families with their legal issues for 30 years and we have the experience to help you resolve your legal issues.

1. Should I retain a lawyer if my fiancé's attorney has already drawn up a prenuptial agreement?
2. Am I considered the parent once my adoption of a child is finalized?
3. Am I entitled to visitation rights as soon as I affirm my paternity of my child?
4. Am I entitled to child support as soon as the father's paternity is positively affirmed?
5. What is the difference between guardianship and adoption?
6. Is my former spouse permitted to move my child to another state?
7. What does the court consider in relocation cases?
8. How can I learn more about family law?

Learn more from a law firm for family law practicing in North Kingstown, Warwick, Cranston, East Greenwich and Coventry, RI

Consult an experienced East Greenwich attorney for answers to your questions about divorce. Call Kerry I. Rafanelli, Attorney at Law or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.