The Rhode Island Supreme Court in Pearson v Pearson ruled that Attorneys Fees in Rhode Island Family Court are very limited and can only be awarded based on a contract or a specific statute authorizing Attorney Fees. The Rhode Island Supreme Court stated:
“This Court adheres to the ‘American rule’ that litigants generally are responsible for their own attorneys’ fees and costs. * * * However, attorneys’ fees may be appropriately awarded, at the discretion of the trial justice, given proper contractual or statutory authorization.” Downey v. Carcieri, 996 A.2d 1144, 1153 (R.I. 2010) (quoting Napier v. Epoch Corp., 971 A.2d594, 598 n.4 (R.I. 2009)).
Legal Notice per Rules of Professional Responsibility:
The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers and attorneys in the general practice of law, but does not license or certify any lawyer / attorney as an expert or specialist in any field of practice