Child Custody & Child Support

Rhode Island Child Support and Joint Custody Attorneys

Child Custody

Rhode Island courts base their child custody decisions on what is in the best interests of the child. That is our focus as well at Kaplan & Associates Inc. in Providence, Rhode Island and we encourage our clients to take that approach.

Mediation is the preferred way for two divorcing parents to agree on child custody arrangements. A courtroom battle opens up the possibility of children being subjected to constant interviews and testimony. With their best interests being the most important factor, we try to facilitate open discussion and negotiation between the two and come to an agreement on child custody.

Child Support

Determining child support is more factually based. The child support calculator is a way to determine the amount of child support that the non-custodial parent has to pay to the custodial parent. The formula is based on whether the couple has agreed to sole or joint custody and various other factors, including:

• Number of children
• Gross monthly income
• Amount of child support paid for children from a prior marriage
• Family group health insurance costs
• Daycare costs

While the formulas are followed strictly, the disputes come from the amounts that are entered. Arguments over accuracy in income, health care costs, and day care expenses can occur. At Kaplan & Associates Inc., we strive to resolve these conflicts in mediation, but will readily go to court if that provides our clients the best outcome.

Even after a decision is rendered, that does not mean that circumstances and living arrangements will remain the same. In those situations where a parent is moving or there has been a loss or change of employment, we represent clients in legal matters relating to interstate custody and post-judgment modifications.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with an experienced child support and child custody lawyer regarding parenting time and visitation schedules, please contact us.