Cardona & Perez Law Offices, LLC
Excellence in Everything

Blog

🏛️ What to Expect in Rhode Island Family Court: A No-Nonsense Guide

If you’re headed to Rhode Island Family Court, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed—and that’s totally normal. Whether you’re dealing with divorce, custody, child support, or visitation, walking into that courtroom can feel like stepping into another universe. This post breaks down what you need to know—without the fluff.

đź“Ť Where Is Rhode Island Family Court?

There are Family Court locations in:

  • Providence (main location)

  • Warwick

  • Pawtucket

  • Woonsocket

  • Newport

  • Wakefield

You’ll be assigned a courthouse based on where you or the other party lives. Your paperwork or attorney will tell you which location.

🔑 Key Things to Expect on Your First Day

1.

Security Screening

Just like at the airport. No weapons, no vape pens, no attitude. Get there early, because the line can build up.

2.

A Lot of Waiting

Even if your hearing is at 9:00 AM, you might not be called until 10:30. Judges hear many cases in one day, so bring your patience (and maybe a charger).

3.

Short Hearings, Big Consequences

Most hearings last 10–20 minutes, but what happens can dramatically impact your parenting time, finances, or future.

4.

A Judge, Not a Jury

There are no juries in Family Court. Just one judge—possibly a magistrate—making decisions that affect your life.

5.

High Emotions

It’s called Family Court for a reason. Emotions run high. People cry, argue, and vent. Stay calm. Stay focused. The judge is watching how you handle pressure.

⚖️ Common Types of Hearings

  • Temporary Orders (Custody, Support, Visitation)

  • Contempt Hearings (You or the other party didn’t follow the order)

  • Motions to Modify (Changes in custody or support)

  • Nominal Divorce Hearings (For uncontested divorces)

  • Full Hearings or Trials (For cases that can’t be resolved by agreement)

đź‘” Do You Need a Lawyer?

Yes. Full stop.

Family law isn’t just emotional—it’s legally complex. The court expects you to follow the rules, even if you’re self-represented. Hiring a Rhode Island family law attorney means you’re not walking in blind.

💬 What If You Can’t Afford a Lawyer?

If it’s a DCYF case or an issue involving your constitutional rights, you might be eligible for a court-appointed attorney. But in divorce, custody, or support cases? You’re on your own unless you hire one.

🚨 Don’t Ignore the Court Date

Missing your court date can result in:

  • Warrants

  • Contempt orders

  • Losing custody time

  • Fines or wage garnishment

If you can’t make it—notify the court or your lawyer ASAP.

đź“ť How to Prepare for Family Court

  1. Dress Like You’re Meeting a Judge… Because You Are

    Business casual at minimum. No tank tops. No pajama pants. No “Free My Baby Daddy” shirts.

  2. Bring All Documents

    Orders, text messages, financial records—whatever supports your case. Bring printed copies. Judges don’t scroll through phones.

  3. Know What You Want

    Judges appreciate clarity. Know your goals—whether it’s joint custody, a parenting schedule, or a specific support amount.

đź“ž Need Help With Family Court in Rhode Island?

If you’re facing a family court matter in Cranston, Providence, Warwick, Pawtucket, or anywhere in Rhode Island—don’t go in alone.

At Cardona & Perez Law, we:

  • Handle high-conflict custody disputes

  • Fight for fair and enforceable parenting plans

  • Protect your rights during divorce

  • Represent clients in modification and contempt proceedings

🚀 Let’s Make Your Next Court Date Less Stressful

➡️ Call Cardona & Perez Law at (401) 475-5436

➡️ Email: ben@cardonaperezlaw.com

➡️ Schedule a consultation through our website

Whether it’s your first time or your fifth time in RI Family Court, we’re here to help you move forward—with confidence.

Ben Perez