Divorce is never easy, and when you’re navigating it in a close-knit community like Newport, it can feel even more overwhelming. You may be juggling emotional stress, financial uncertainty, and questions about what to do next. The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out alone.

At the Law Office of Susan T. Perkins, we understand how complex and stressful the divorce process can be. With over 25 years of experience helping people through divorce in Rhode Island, Susan knows the legal system inside and out—especially here in Newport.

This guide walks you through the key steps of the divorce process in Newport, RI, and explains what to expect along the way.

What to Know Before Filing for Divorce in Newport

Before you file for divorce in Newport, there are a few things you need to know about how Rhode Island law works:

Rhode Island is a no-fault divorce state. That means you don’t need to prove infidelity or wrongdoing. Most people file based on “irreconcilable differences.”
Residency requirements: You or your spouse must have lived in Rhode Island for at least one year before filing.
Contested vs. uncontested divorce: If you and your spouse agree on everything (like child custody, property division, and alimony), your case is uncontested. If not, it’s contested, which may require multiple court hearings.
Mediation is an option. Mediation can help you resolve disagreements outside of court and is often faster and less expensive than a trial.

If you’re not sure which type of divorce is right for your situation, schedule a free consultation with Newport Divorce Lawyer Susan T. Perkins to talk through your options.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Newport Divorce Process

1. Filing Your Divorce Petition

The first official step is filing a Complaint for Divorce with the Newport Family Court, located at the Murray Judicial Complex (45 Washington Square, Newport, RI). You’ll also need to submit:

A financial statement (Form DR-6)
A “Statement Listing Children” form if you have kids
A copy of your marriage certificate
The required filing fee

2. Serving Divorce Papers

After filing, you must legally serve the papers to your spouse. A sheriff or constable must do this—you can’t do it yourself.

3. Your Spouse’s Response

Your spouse has 20 days to respond. If they fail to respond, the court may issue a default judgment in your favor.

4. Discovery and Disclosures

This is when both parties share:

Financial information
Asset and debt details
Any other relevant documents

It’s a crucial part of ensuring a fair outcome, especially when it comes to dividing property or calculating alimony and child support.

5. Settlement or Trial

If both parties agree on all terms, your divorce can be finalized at a single court hearing. If you can’t agree, your case will move to trial, where a judge will make the final decisions.

When to Speak with a Newport Divorce Lawyer

While it’s technically possible to file for divorce on your own, it’s not always a wise choice—especially if you:

Share property, retirement accounts, or a home with your spouse
Have children and need a custody agreement
Expect your spouse to contest the divorce
Believe your spouse may hide assets

An experienced Newport divorce attorney can help you:

Navigate complex paperwork
Ensure your rights are fully protected
Avoid legal errors that delay your case
Get a fair outcome and safeguard what’s rightfully yours

Susan T. Perkins has been helping clients across Newport, Middletown, Tiverton, and Portsmouth for over 25 years. Call 401-PERKINS (401-324-2990) today for your free 60-minute consultation to get clarity on your options and next steps.

Divorce Process in Newport RI FAQs

Can military members file for divorce in Newport, RI?

Yes. Military personnel stationed at Naval Station Newport or living in Newport can file for divorce in Rhode Island. Additional considerations may apply under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), and military pensions may be subject to different rules during asset division.

Do I have to live in Newport to file for divorce there?

Not necessarily. You or your spouse must have lived somewhere in Rhode Island for at least one year to file for divorce. Newport County Family Court typically handles cases for residents of that county—including Middletown, Portsmouth, Tiverton, and others—but you may be able to file in a different county depending on your specific circumstances.

Can I get a divorce in RI without going to court?

In some cases, yes. If your divorce is uncontested and all paperwork is in order, you may only need to attend one court hearing. Mediation may also help you avoid court battles.

What if I can’t locate my spouse for service in RI?

You can still move forward, but you’ll need to request alternate service from the court, such as publishing a notice in a local newspaper. A lawyer can help guide you through this process.

How long does a divorce take in Newport, RI?

The timeline for an uncontested divorce starts as early as 75 days after filing. But, due to the state’s mandatory 90-day waiting period before a Final Judgment, most uncontested divorces are completed in about four to five months. Contested divorces—especially those involving child custody or property disputes—can take several months to over a year.

Talk to an Experienced Divorce Lawyer Serving Newport, RI

Whether you’re just starting to consider divorce or you’re ready to file, it’s essential to work with someone who truly understands the divorce process in Newport RI. Susan T. Perkins brings decades of experience and a compassionate, detail-oriented approach to every case.

If you’re looking for a trusted divorce attorney in Newport County who will advocate for your rights and guide you through every step, you’re in the right place.

Call the Law Office of Susan T. Perkins at 401-PERKINS (401-324-2990) today to schedule your free 60-minute consultation.