Updated August 11, 2023
A Rhode Island separation agreement is a legal document that contains the terms governing the status of married couples who are no longer living together. Separation agreements can determine many of the same things that are usually settled in divorce: spousal support, child support, and the division of marital assets. Unlike divorce, however, separation is not permanent and may be reversed if the parties desire.
Is a Separation Agreement Legal in Rhode Island?
Yes, couples may create private separation agreements on their own, and may also petition a court for separate maintenance or a “divorce from bed and board,” which can determine child and spousal support, property division, and other matters for the period of the separation.
Source: § 15-5-9
Legal Separation Requirements
- Filing Fee: $160 (Civil Filing)
- Residency: For a divorce from bed and board, the filing spouse must be a resident of the state, and the judge in the case has discretion to decide whether or not the spouse has been a resident long enough to grant one (§ 15-5-9)
- Where to File: With the Family Court for the county where the filing spouse lives.
Court Forms
- Complaint for Separate Maintenance Without Divorce Proceedings
- Complaint for Divorce from Bed and Board
Related Forms
Download: PDF, MS Word, OpenDocument
Download: PDF, MS Word, OpenDocument