VISITATION
Knowledgeable Visitation Attorneys in North Kingstown Putting Children First
Protecting your parental rights during RI divorce
Children have the right to maintain close relationships with both their parents. A successful visitation plan allows children to maintain a bond with their separated parents. In addition, a well-formulated plan can help children and parents adjust to the divorce.
For 30 years, Warwick visitation attorney Kerry I. Rafanelli has guided parents through the crucial issues concerning their children — including child visitation, child custody and child support. In most cases, we can negotiate a positive and workable visitation plan. If the other parent refuses to cooperate, however, we vehemently advocate your parental rights at trial.
Factors considered in a visitation order
Unless, a judge determines that contact is detrimental to the child(ren), the noncustodial parent is granted liberal visitation through a court order. The court follows Rhode Island guidelines when issuing its order of visitation, but may alter the plan based on such factors as:
- Geographical proximity between the children and noncustodial parent
- Each parent's work schedule
- Any restrictions on travel of noncustodial parent or children
- Unique issues that require special consideration
Creating an effective parenting plan through mediation
Our team emphasizes mediation between parents to reach an agreement on a parenting plan that is best for you, the other parent and your children. We help you develop a successful parenting plan that addresses:
- Weekdays and weekends
- Summer and school schedules
- School vacations (Holiday, Winter and Spring breaks)
- Thanksgiving
- Holidays of interest to one parent -- such as birthdays, mother's day or father's day
- Religious holidays
- Three-day weekends
- Flexibility for family events - such as weddings or reunions
Mediation has several advantages — including reducing costs, settling your case more expediently and minimizing the stress associated with litigating your divorce. This alternative dispute resolution method also fosters cooperation that helps you interact more amicably with each other and helps your children cope with the changes.
Learn more about visitation from dedicated divorce lawyers serving Warwick, Cranston, East Greenwich and Coventry, RI
Consult an experienced East Greenwich attorney who can assist you in developing an effective visitation schedule. Call Kerry I. Rafanelli, Attorney at Law or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
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
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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.