Rhode Island § 15-30-2 - Legal Representation in Child Support Cases

§ 15-30-2. Department of Human Services — Office of child support services — Powers and duties.

The department may take action to establish paternity, establish, enforce and modify child support orders under the provisions of appropriate sections under title 15 and in accordance with title IV-D of the Social Security Act and other appropriate state and federal statutes if the department:

(1) receives a referral on behalf of a child receiving benefits from the Family Independence Program;

(2) receives a referral on behalf of a child in the care of the department of children, youth and families pursuant to § 15-9-1;

(3) receives an interstate referral under the provisions of the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act; and

(4) receives an application for services from a custodial parent, noncustodial parent, guardian of a child, or from the child. Provided, however, that all applicants shall receive a rights and responsibilities statement, a disclosure of representation statement and sign an acknowledgement of nonrepresentation prior to services being rendered. The notice shall inform the individual of his or her right to retain private counsel and of any free legal services that are available.