Domestic Violence and Rhode Island Family Court

Custody Basics

Custody refers to the legal rights and responsibilities a parent or guardian has for a child. It includes decisions about the child's living arrangements, education, healthcare, and overall welfare. Custody can be sole (one parent has decision-making authority) or joint (both parents share responsibilities). Courts prioritize the child’s best interests when determining custody arrangements to ensure stability and safety.

Raising Domestic Violence Concerns

If domestic violence (DV) is a factor in a custody case, it’s crucial to openly raise these concerns with the court. Inform the judge and provide clear details about past abuse, threats, or coercive behaviors. Courts are tasked with protecting children and survivors by carefully considering DV allegations and may order evaluations or supervised visitation to maintain safety.

Types of Evidence

Effective evidence in custody cases involving domestic violence can include police reports, medical records, protective orders, witness statements, photos of injuries or property damage, and documented communications such as texts or emails. These help demonstrate the presence or risk of abuse and support requests for protective measures. For additional resources, visit DV Support.

Safety-Focused Visitation Options

When safety concerns exist, courts may order visitation arrangements designed to protect the child and the survivor. These can include supervised visitation, exchanges in neutral locations, virtual visits, or specific restrictions on timing and duration. The goal is to maintain parent-child contact while minimizing risk and ensuring a secure environment.