The best interests of the child is the Rhode Island Family Court’s one unwavering principle as it relates to minor children. This standard guides nearly every ruling and decision the court makes in matters affecting minor children in virtually every aspect of family law.
What the “Best Interests of the Child” Means
In Rhode Island Family Court, judges must focus on what truly serves the child’s overall well-being — emotionally, physically, and developmentally. This guiding principle applies in nearly every case involving:
- Legal custody – determining who makes major life decisions for the child
- Physical placement – deciding where the child primarily lives
- Child support and medical support obligations
- Out-of-pocket medical expenses
- Parenting time (aka Visitation)
- Extracurricular activities and parental cooperation
In short, the best interests of the child in Rhode Island Family Court are always placed above parental wants or disputes. They are what the court deems to be best for the child based on the circumstances presented. For instance, regarding child support it may not be in the child’s best interests for child support to be set at $0 even if both parents agree that it may be set at that. The court may find that it is in the best interests for child support to be set at the court’s minimum standard.
The same is true for other aspects of the child’s life. The parents may agree to splitting medical expenses for the minor child(ren) on a 50/50 basis but based on a great disparity in the income of the parents the court may find that if one parent makes 80 percent of the parent’s combined income that it is more in keeping with the best interests of the child that out-of-pocket medical expenses be divided on a percentage basis if this might help the smaller earner better contribute to the minor child’s needs.
The Rhode Island Family Lawyer’s Responsibility
A seasoned Rhode Island family lawyer understands that while the client is a parent or guardian, the focus must remain on what benefits the child. Every argument and piece of evidence should reflect how it supports the child’s welfare and stability.
If an attorney frames a case around a parent’s demands or perceived rights, they risk losing the judge’s focus. Judges in the Rhode Island Family Court consistently look for reasoning grounded in the best interests of the child — not in the personal conflicts between adults.
Why The Best Interests of the Child Standard Matters
Even in cases where the law does not specifically require the “best interests of the child” test, wise advocates know that aligning with this principle strengthens their case. Judges naturally seek to protect children, especially when they may have no other voice during a dispute.
At its core, the Rhode Island Family Court exists to protect children. Centering every decision and argument around the best interests of the child ensures that the system fulfills its purpose — safeguarding the child’s safety, happiness, and future.
This article is for informational purposes and is not legal advice. To obtain legal advice about your rights, options and alternatives in your particular set of circumstances, contact us at (401) 632-6976 to set up an affordable legal advice session.
