FIRM
OVERVIEW
Whatever you’re going through, we’ll get you through it.
Divorce Mediation Attorneys
Established North Kingstown Law Firm Serving Warwick, Cranston, East Greenwich and Coventry, RI
Three decades of dedicated service to Rhode Island and Massachusetts residents
Our law firm philosophy: focus on mediation
Compassion and respect to families and children
Children are always our top priority when their best interests are involved. The courts regularly appoint Kerry as guardian ad litem to represent children in contentious divorces and family law disputes. However, even in cases in which the parents are willing to work together, the children’s wishes can get lost in the court case. We give children a voice so that you can feel confident about the choices you make on their behalf.
Learn more from a dedicated East Greenwich law firm
Providence family law attorney
Kerry I. Rafanelli
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
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.