Getting Divorced
R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-3.1 — irreconcilable differences without fault, after a year of living in the state
A divorce is granted, without regard to either party's fault, on the ground of irreconcilable differences that have caused the irremediable breakdown of the marriage.
Evidence of specific misconduct is generally inadmissible in that kind of case, except on alimony and property, where custody is in issue, or where needed to show the differences exist.
One year. The person filing must have lived in Rhode Island, as a domiciled inhabitant, for one year before filing, unless the other spouse has and is personally served.
Living separate and apart for at least three years is a separate ground. Final judgment then waits at least twenty days after the decision.
Either spouse may ask that the decree authorize a change of name, whether or not there are children of the marriage.
Property, alimony and custody are decided in the same case. A particular divorce is a question for a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
Sources for this section (4)
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-3.1 — Divorce on grounds of irreconcilable differences
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-12 — Domicile and residence requirements
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-3 — Separation of parties as ground for dissolution; Appeal
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-5-17 — Change of name
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Rhode Island attorney.