Rhode Island Family Court Lawyer

Rhode Island family courts handle legal issues surrounding families and domestic relationships. These can be intensely challenging and emotionally-charged due to their deeply personal nature. The outcome of these issues can also have a profound effect on your future in terms of your finances, your children, and other matters closely related to divorce and family law. 

At Biafore Law, we have been providing guidance and support to individuals and families in resolving family law cases through effective representation and strong trial advocacy. We know that your divorce or other issue can be one of the most important legal matters you will ever face. That is why you need an attorney who will fiercely protect your rights and your best interests. Our firm will always provide you with the legal and personal support you need in seeking the best possible case outcome.

What Family Law matters do we handle in RI?

At Biafore Law, we handle a wide range of family law matters, ensuring that our clients receive dedicated legal representation. Whether you’re going through a divorce, need help with child custody, or require support in navigating the complexities of adoption, we provide expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. Our goal is to protect your rights and the well-being of your family, helping you achieve the best possible outcome in every case.

Some of the family law matters we handle include:

• Divorce and Legal Separation
• Child Custody and Visitation
• Child Support and Modifications
• Asset Division and Alimony
• Adoption and Paternity
• Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders
• DCYF Matters (Department of Child, Youth & Families)

No matter what challenge you’re facing, we are here to provide compassionate, skilled legal support every step of the way.

Going Through a Divorce or Legal Separation in Rhode Island?

Divorce is often a daunting experience that can be confusing, uncertain, and stressful. Working with an experienced attorney can be invaluable throughout the process. You and your spouse will need to resolve issues relevant to your case, such as child custody and visitation, child support, asset division and property settlement, and alimony. Our attorney will work closely with you in alignment with your needs and goals as well as provide aggressive advocacy both in and out of court.

Struggling with Child Custody or Visitation Rights in RI?

This issue is commonly the most emotional for parents both during a pending divorce and in post-divorce matters or disputes.

Custody is divided into two types:

1. Legal custody which gives a parent the right to make major decisions for a child, such as those relating to education, healthcare, religion, and more.

2. Physical custody which involves having a child reside with you. Courts favor joint custody as it is deemed in a child’s best interests to maintain an ongoing and meaningful relationship with both parents. This is preferred unless a parent is deemed to be unfit.

Do You Need Help With Child Support or Modifications in Rhode Island?

Whomever has primary physical custody of a child is entitled to child support under the law. This support is calculated according to state guidelines and may be paid in different ways, including direct payments, wage garnishment, or through a state agency. Child support can also be modified due to significant changes in circumstances, such as a change in income or custody.

If you’re facing a child support issue or need to modify an existing arrangement, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the legal options available. At Biafore Law, we have years of experience helping parents navigate child support cases and modifications. We work to ensure that you receive fair support or help you make necessary adjustments if your financial situation changes.

Department of Child, Youth & Families (DCYF)

Nothing is more frightening that the state getting involved with your children, as in child protection issues. These issues generally involve dependency petitions and allegations of neglect or abuse. Other issues can include daycare licensing, adoption, and other matters under the jurisdiction of this agency.

If you have a matter or dispute with the DCYF, you will benefit from the extensive experience of our team. We can provide aggressive help in support of your parental rights and/or the guidance you need to resolve any situation in the best possible way.

Juvenile Proceedings

The Family Court has jurisdiction to handle criminal cases charged against children under the age of 18. Very few attorneys have experience with this type of legal representation. Attorney Biafore has extensive experience representing juveniles in the Family Court. These proceedings differ significantly from adult criminal proceedings.

One example is that there is no setting of bail for juveniles who have been charged with a criminal offense.  The Judge will determine what the least restrictive means is to protect the juvenile and the community when he or she decides where the child will reside while the case proceeds.  This could be anywhere from being released home with no restrictions (other than keeping the peace and remaining on good behavior), to incarceration in the Rhode Island Training School.  Many options in between may be available and we will fight diligently for your child’s best interests from start to finish.

If your child is arrested or summoned to the court or even contacted by the police for a statement or interview, do not do anything until you speak to our attorney first. Anything you say can and will be used against your child.

Over 20 Years of Experience & Dedicated Legal Support For Family Law Cases

Ensure that you understand your rights, the laws, and your options in any family court matter.

Attorney Christopher J. Biafore is a top Rhode Island Lawyer that has been licensed to practice law in the State of Rhode Island and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts since the year 2000. He has gained extensive knowledge and contacts throughout the legal community with his excess of 20 years of experience. In June of 2017, Attorney Christopher J. Biafore formed Biafore Law located in East Greenwich, RI, after previously working as an associate at two other prestigious law firms in Providence, Rhode Island.