Category: Family Law
Category: Family Law
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[ ... ]
Will I Lose My Health Insurance Coverage When My Divorce Is Finalized?
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
Many families elect to have Group Insurance coverage under a single spouse provided by their employer. This means one spouse is the primary policyholder of a medical insurance plan, and the rest of the family is covered under that one plan. During a divorce, the question arises as to how the other spouse, and children, will be covered by medical insurance. Massachusetts law does allow the dependent spouse to remain on the insured spouse’s private employ[ ... ]
The Massachusetts Divorce Process: Know Your Options
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
The decision to file for divorce is never easy. When the determination has been made, it’s essential to understand the process, which varies by state. To begin the divorce process in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, here are a few things to consider. To file for divorce in Massachusetts, one of the following must apply: (1) you have lived in the state for one year, or (2) the reason the marriage ended happened in Massachusetts, and you have li[ ... ]
Massachusetts Divorce Laws And Requirements
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
For those looking to pursue a divorce action in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, several factors must be considered prior to the filing of an action with the Probate and Family Court. The legal process of divorce can be complicated; therefore, it is in the best interest of each individual to consider hiring an attorney who focuses on divorce and family law, even if the divorce is considered “uncontested.” Residency Requirements[ ... ]
My Ex-Spouse Has Asked To Pick Up Our Children, Of Whom We Share Custody, At A Different Time From That Stated In Our Custody Agreement. I’m Fine With The Change. Do We Need To Alter The Agreement, Or Is A Verbal Agreement Enough?
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
As an attorney, my answer is almost always going to be “get it in writing.” While you may have the most amicable divorce in the world, you never know what the future may hold. Contracts fill the gaps left when human trust fails. If this is a one-time, or two-time situation, a verbal agreement might suffice. Of course, without putting it in writing, if you agree to a “quick change,” you may find yourself agreeing to a years-long arrange[ ... ]
What You Should Know About Child Support In Massachusetts
- June 4, 2020
- Family Law
In the event of a divorce, one parent may be ordered by the court to pay child support. Under Massachusetts law, both parents are required to support their children—and this is true regardless of marital status (whether the parents are married, divorced, separated, or were never married). The parent the child lives with a majority of the time is termed the primary custodial parent. The noncustodial parent may be required to pay child support. Child Sup[ ... ]
