How to File for Divorce in Rhode Island Without a Lawyer (2026 Guide)

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Rhode Island Without a Lawyer

Rhode Island requires 1 year residency with a 3-4 month typical timeline. The state uses equitable distribution and considers fault in alimony. DIY divorce is possible for uncontested cases.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Rhode Island?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

Both agree to divorce
No minor children or agreement on custody/support
Agreement on property division
No contested alimony
Both willing to cooperate

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

Child custody or support disputes
Complex property division
Fault affects alimony
Significant assets
Spouse contests

Find Rhode Island Divorce Lawyers →

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Rhode Island

Step 1

Meet 1-Year Residency

Either spouse must have lived in Rhode Island for 1 year before filing.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A

💡 Tips:

RI driver's license
Voter registration
Exceptions may apply

Step 2

Complete Complaint for Divorce

Fill out Complaint for Divorce (Verified Complaint).

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

💡 Tips:

Filing fee: $160-200
State irreconcilable differences
Use RI court forms

Step 3

File with Family Court

Submit petition to Family Court in your county.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 day

💡 Tips:

Bring original + copies
Pay filing fee
Get case number

Step 4

Serve Your Spouse

Have spouse served by authorized person.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks

💡 Tips:

Cannot serve yourself
Sheriff or process server
Spouse can accept service

Step 5

Exchange Financial Statements

Both complete detailed financial affidavits.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Required disclosure
List all income, assets, debts

Step 6

Draft Property Settlement Agreement

Create comprehensive settlement agreement.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-6 hours

💡 Tips:

Address all marital property
Include custody if children
Both must sign and notarize

Step 7

Attend Final Hearing

Appear before judge for final hearing.

⏱ Estimated Time: 30-60 minutes

💡 Tips:

Usually required
Bring all documents
Answer judge's questions

Step 8

Receive Final Decree

Court issues Final Decree of Divorce.

⏱ Estimated Time: Immediately

💡 Tips:

Request certified copies
Effective immediately

Required Forms for Rhode Island Divorce

Complaint for Divorce (Varies)

Required

📄 Download Form

Financial Affidavit (Varies)

Required

Property Settlement Agreement (Custom)

Required

Note: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.

Cost Breakdown for Rhode Island DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$210-300

Filing fee: $160-200
Service fee: $50-100
Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$4,000-20,000

Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases

For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View Rhode Island Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Not meeting 1-year residency

Incomplete financial affidavits

Not notarizing settlement

Missing final hearing

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island DIY Divorce

Does fault matter in Rhode Island divorce?

Yes, Rhode Island is one of the states that considers fault as a factor in alimony determinations, though no-fault grounds (irreconcilable differences) are available.

How long does a Rhode Island divorce take?

Uncontested divorces in Rhode Island typically take 4-6 months from filing to finalization.

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Rhode Island?

Yes, Rhode Island allows self-representation, though procedures can be complex. The Family Court has some self-help resources.

Need Professional Help?

While DIY divorce can save money in Rhode Island, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Find Rhode Island Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer