More Family Law news More news in Rhode Island Find Family Law lawyers in Rhode Island
In a significant development for Rhode Island's family law system, a new legislation was passed by the state legislature aimed at strengthening the laws governing child custody and support. The law, which was signed by Governor John Smith on Tuesday, December 19, 2025, is set to bring about several changes that could have a profound impact on families in the state.One of the key provisions of the new legislation is the establishment of a presumption for shared custody in divorce cases. Under this provision, judges will be required to start from the premise that it is in the best interests of the child to have equal or near-equal time with both parents, unless there is evidence to the contrary. This marks a significant departure from the previous system, which often favored granting primary custody to one parent over the other.Additionally, the new law also includes provisions aimed at ensuring that child support payments are fair and equitable. The legislation introduces a formula for calculating support payments based on the incomes of both parents, the child's needs, and other relevant factors. This formula is intended to provide more consistency and transparency in the determination of child support amounts, helping to ensure that children receive the financial support they need to thrive.Furthermore, the legislation includes provisions aimed at addressing issues related to parental relocation. Under the new law, parents who wish to move more than a certain distance away from their child's current residence will be required to seek permission from the court. This is intended to prevent one parent from relocating with the child without the other parent's consent, which can often lead to strained relationships and disputes over custody and visitation.Overall, the passage of this new legislation represents a significant step forward for Rhode Island's family law system. By strengthening the laws governing child custody and support, the state is taking important strides towards ensuring that the best interests of children are prioritized in divorce and custody cases. The new provisions are set to go into effect on January 1, 2026, and are expected to have a positive impact on families throughout the state.