Before Facebook launched to the public in 2006, most people had never heard the term “social media.” Only internet nerds and computer geeks knew much about it. Fast forward to today and social networking is a large part of many people’s lives. It includes not only posting and sharing on Facebook but also on Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram and other internet platforms. Social media is changing how people communicate and interact with each oth[ ... ]
Massachusetts law determines child custody cases on the basis of the “best interest of the child.” The best interest of the child drives every decision the court makes, including the amount of time the child will spend with each parent (“parenting time”), as well as the amount of child support the non-custodial parent will pay the custodial parent. What is Parenting Time? Parenting time refers to the amount of time the child[ ... ]
When it comes to child custody, many people agree that joint custody is the best option. After all, it allows the child to spend time with both parents, and it allows both parents to be able to see their child. Plus, it also helps break up the financial cost of taking care of the child, which can make things easier for everyone who is involved. However, there is one important thing that you will need to rem[ ... ]
Considerable time and effort goes into negotiating the average divorce. Many are surprised that sometimes, months, or even years, afterwards, they discover that it still isn’t quite right. Perhaps an important life event has created new circumstances that make changing a divorce decree necessary. Modifications make a do-over possible, so to speak. Custody & Visitation[ ... ]
Whether you are considering filing for divorce or you find yourself already in the middle of divorce proceedings, you may have heard an assortment of divorce terms, and you might be wondering what these terms mean. Divorce can be a difficult and confusing situation, but there is no reason you need to continue to be confused by some of the term[ ... ]
Even lengthy, contested divorces usually do not involve a deposition. However, there are exceptions to every rule and in the case of a deposition, this exception also applies. If things have become so contentious a trial is anticipated or, perhaps, there is a great deal of wealth at stake, a deposition will be used during the discovery process. Should you find yourself facing a deposition, rather than worry, follow these tips to get through it li[ ... ]
Contested issues are the most common causes for delays in finalizing a divorce. There is no doubt that by the time a couple has endured the journey of recognizing it is time to end a marriage they are hoping for a legal process that is not excruciatingly lengthy. The most common contested issues are: Child custody Child support Alimony Division[ ... ]
One of the most complex and important issues in any divorce is the division of property. While some divorcing spouses are able to come to an agreement on this issue outside of court, in many cases a judge must step in and direct an equitable distribution of assets. However, determining which assets may be distributed is often a source of confusion, and laws vary state-by-state. In Massachusetts, it is important to remember that all property – even prope[ ... ]
Divorce settlements aren’t always permanent. You might need to return to court post divorce for a variety of reasons. But keep in mind that you may only return to court for a divorce modification if you or your ex-spouse have a change of circumstances to warrant further legal proceedings. If you move to a different area, or if your job changes, these are valid reasons to contact your attorney to discuss modifying the original agreement. These are only a few of[ ... ]
If you have ever had to deal with Family Law in the state of Massachusetts, you know that it can be a bit confusing. This is rather frustrating when not knowing your rights and not knowing how to get through the laws can mean the difference between keeping your kids and losing them. Sometimes what’s at stake is somehow even more important than the custody of your kids. Sometimes what’s at stake i[ ... ]