Our Blog
I’ve Only Been Married For 2 Weeks, Am I Eligible For An Annulment?
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
In the state of Massachusetts, a court granted annulment means your marriage never legally happened. Each state’s legislative code sets specific guidelines for what constitutes an annullable marriage. Contrary to popular belief, you can’t annul a marriage based on a short duration. Massachusetts outlines seven specific grounds for annulment. In Massachusetts, annulments require your marriage to be either void or voidable. There are three void marr[ ... ]
Common Myths In Massachusetts Family Law Every Parent Should Know
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
When it comes to divorcing and family law, things get complicated quickly. It’s essential to know your rights regarding your children. Presented here are some common myths every parent should be made aware of during divorce or custody proceedings. Myth: A parent’s failure to pay child support can result in the parent being kept from seeing the children Only a judge can determine visitation rights. If a parent fails to pay[ ... ]
Legal Advice
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
Clients meet with you and present one side of a situation. This is account is solely from how the Client views their situation. The lawyer provides legal advice based upon that information. As the case progresses, more information is learned. The lawyer obtains information from the opposing party as to how they perceive the situation and the lawyer learns information from outside sources, like a police report, or a third party, like a teacher or physician.[ ... ]
How Do Courts Determine If Relocation Of A Child To Another State During A Divorce Is Acceptable?
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
In situations where a custodial parent wishes to relocate with a child, the court will determine whether child custody relocation is in the best interests of the child. While a parent is free to relocate out of state themselves without the child or with the permission of the other parent to take the child, the state of Massachusetts requires a judge ruling regarding relocation contested by a parent. Depending on the current custody agreement, the judge has tw[ ... ]
How To Get A Protective Order Against An Abusive Partner Or Spouse
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
Domestic abuse is a serious and even life-threatening situation—and there are legal remedies to help survivors protect themselves, their children, and their property as they make the brave decision to escape an abusive situation and begin moving forward with their lives. One of the most important tools available to victims of domestic abuse is the restraining order. In Massachusetts, a restraining order is known as a an “Abuse Prevention Order&rdq[ ... ]
Don’t Fall Victim To Hidden Assets During Divorce
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
When it comes to divorce in Massachusetts, everything related to finances must be fully disclosed. This includes every single asset, purchased together or otherwise, as well as all accumulated debts. Each spouse is instructed to report known findings through a financial affidavit. It is against the law to purposely hide, understate, or overstate assets, as well as any marital property, debt, income, or expense. In extreme cases, this can potentially lead to t[ ... ]
My Kids Hate The Custody Arrangement – What Can I Do To Make Their Voices Heard?
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
Even in the best of circumstances, divorce can be difficult for children. Children are often resistant to change: adapting to new schedules and surroundings, learning to live with one parent at a time, and getting along with possible new stepsiblings or half-siblings are all big changes, ones which can challenge a child’s developing social skills and coping mechanisms. However, many, if not most, children with divorced parents eventually adapt and thrive, growi[ ... ]
Divorce Facts Every Massachusetts Couple Should Know
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
Whether you’re anticipating a separation or contemplating divorce, you should know some key information regarding divorce in Massachusetts. Reasons for Divorce There are several permitted grounds for divorce under Massachusetts law. Traditional fault grounds—such as adultery or incarceration—as well as no-fault grounds, are justifiable means for divorce. No-fault grounds describe a faultless but irretrievable breakdown of the marri[ ... ]
Does Massachusetts Divide Property Equally Between The Spouses During A Divorce?
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
Rather than divide marital property equally, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ family law code seeks to divide it equitably. Massachusetts defines “marital property” as any property—be it income, assets, real estate, or everyday items—that comes into possession of the couple or either of the spouses individually during the course of the marriage. This could include trade secrets, stock holdings, and artistic creations. For indiv[ ... ]
Prenuptial Agreements: What They Are And Who Needs One
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
Prenuptial agreements might have a bad reputation from tabloid accounts of celebrity divorces, but these important legal arrangements are for more than the rich and famous. Nor are prenuptial agreements a statement that a couple plans to divorce or otherwise wants an exit strategy. When done right, a prenuptial agreement can help a couple take stock of their assets and set the stage for efficient and open communication about joint finances, thus strengthening the mar[ ... ]
