Pro Se litigants are at a major disadvantage in Rhode Island Family Court because they are not familiar with the Judges and Magistrates. Rulings in RI Family Court may depend on making the right argument to the judge. As a seasoned family law attorney, I have practiced before all the judges hundreds of times. As time goes by you start to realize what arguments work with certain judges and which arguments do not work. For example, different judges often have different philosophies’ concerning restraining orders, child support, visitation and equitable division of assets.
Pro SE litigants often make the wrong arguments to the judge and may lose their case as a result
Providence Divorce
Lawyers in Family Court know when it is okay to challenge a judge and when you must back down. We also know which arguments anger judges. We stay far away from those arguments. Attorneys know how to navigate the system and how to interact with court personnel such as sheriffs, clerks and court reporters. When you go into RI Family Court without a family lawyer, you are going on a hike in the forest without a compass to guide you.
RI Family Court Judge
For example, some judges routinely order supervised visits with a child when there are allegations of parental unfitness, drug abuse or other issues. Some judges dislike supervised visits with children in child custody cases, altogether. Other judges believe in supervised visitation only for a short time. If you know the judge who you are going to appear before than you have an idea what is a good settlement and how to approach the judge.
Providence Family Court | RI Family Court judge
People who represent themselves in divorce, custody, child support, paternity or visitation cases often make major mistakes which cost them dearly in their case. In some cases, you only get one chance to make your argument to the Judge. If you make the wrong argument you may lose your case! Article by Rhode Island Family Court Lawyer David Slepkow 401-437-11
“If you plan to represent yourself in family court, follow these pro se custody tips:
- Take careful notes during the proceedings
- Listen very carefully
- Respond respectfully to the judge and to your ex’s attorney
- Understand your state’s child custody laws
- Have at least one consultation with a child custody attorney in your state to determine how best to proceed
- Alternatively, attend a free legal clinic in your area
- Sit in on at least one court proceeding in advance to get a feel for what happens during a court hearing
- Enter into all agreements freely or voluntarily” https://www.verywellfamily.com/pro-se-custody-tips-for-representing-yourself-2997867
