Kerry I. Rafanelli

Kerry I. Rafanelli is a Rhode Island family law lawyer at Rafanelli Law, and he has guided clients through difficult domestic matters for more than 35 years. He focuses his practice on divorce, mediation, child custody, paternity, adoption, relocation petitions, grandparents’ rights, and prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. He uses a compassionate, detail-oriented approach while helping clients identify practical strategies suited to their circumstances and goals. His representation combines firm advocacy, direct legal guidance, and thoughtful negotiation throughout each stage of a case.

Mr. Rafanelli earned his B.S. from Providence College in 1980. He received his J.D. from New England School of Law in 1983. He gained admission to the Rhode Island Bar in 1983 and the US District Court for Rhode Island in 1984. He later gained admission to the Massachusetts Bar in 2006. His education and multijurisdictional credentials support his work for individuals and families facing complex legal and personal transitions.

Mr. Rafanelli has built his career around family law, mediation, public service, and professional involvement. He has served as an assistant city solicitor for the City of Warwick, adding public-sector experience to his legal background. He belongs to the Kent County, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts bar associations. His memberships include the Edward P. Gallogly Rhode Island Family Law Inn of Court. He has supported community organizations through board and incorporator positions connected with education, youth services, and health care.

Kerry I. Rafanelli brings recognized legal ability, professional ethics, and steady judgment to his family law practice. He received the Kent County Bar Association’s Lawyer of the Year Award in 1999. He has earned an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting strong peer recognition for his legal ability and ethical standards. His experience helps him manage stressful disputes, develop creative solutions, and pursue equitable resolutions. He gives each client individualized attention while helping families move forward with clarity and confidence.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Kerry I Rafanelli, Attorney at Law
• Member, Rhode Island Bar Association
• Member, Massachusetts Bar Association
• Member, Kent County Bar Association
• Member, The Edward P. Gallogly Rhode Island Family Law Inn of Court

Licensed State

• Rhode Island
• Massachusetts

Education

• New England School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Providence College
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges