During heated custody cases, disgruntled ex-spouses may throw around the phrase “unfit parent.” If you are in the midst of a divorce or custody battle involving minor children, you should understand the legal standard for parental “unfitness” in Massachusetts. What Is Parental Unfitness in Massachusetts? The state of Massachusetts has deemed child custody a fundamental […]
Read MoreBrowse our law blog for Massachusetts-specific family law and divorce topics
What Custody Schedule is Best for the Child?
A child custody schedule in Massachusetts is determined by the “best interests of the child” standard. While there is no set standard for what is in the best interests of a child since every case is different, several factors will weigh into the court’s consideration when determining the best custody schedule for your child. Choosing […]
Read MoreDoes Adultery Affect Divorce in Massachusetts?
Does infidelity impact the divorce process? While adultery can cause an emotional upheaval for a divorcing couple, it may not significantly affect the process of a no-fault divorce in Massachusetts. However, there are ways infidelity can make a legal impact on divorce in certain circumstances. Moreover, adultery can provide grounds for a fault-based divorce. Partners […]
Read MoreIs Massachusetts a Mother State?
It’s a common assumption that mothers usually get custody of the children when parents split. But this isn’t always the case in Massachusetts, where both mothers and fathers have equal rights in child custody cases. While it can be somewhat challenging for fathers to gain custody in certain situations, working with an experienced family law […]
Read MoreWho Pays Divorce Costs in Massachusetts?
In a Massachusetts divorce, each side will typically pay for their own expenses and legal costs. Known as the “American Rule,” this practice is widely accepted and applied in Massachusetts courts. But there are some exceptions to the American Rule that you should be aware of. Statutes Give Judges Discretion to Decide Although many courts […]
Read MoreHow is Child Custody Determined in Massachusetts?
Every issue decided during divorce proceedings can impact your life, but child custody ranks among the most important. The court’s custody decisions will be based on the unique circumstances of your family. Below, we discuss the critical factors Massachusetts courts typically consider when determining physical and legal custody of a child. Legal custody is the […]
Read MoreWill I Have to Pay Spousal Support in Massachusetts?
When you face divorce in Massachusetts, you might be concerned about the need to pay spousal support. Known under Massachusetts law as alimony, spousal support refers to one spouse’s legal obligation to provide financial support to the other spouse after the divorce. Who Qualifies for Spousal Support in Massachusetts? In Massachusetts, alimony can be awarded […]
Read MoreHow Does Business Valuation in Divorce Work in Massachusetts?
Divorce is rarely an easy process. Matters become particularly complex when a couple in Massachusetts share ownership interests in a company. The final division of assets will involve business valuation questions and other issues requiring careful consideration. If the individuals going through the divorce cannot agree on the way that the business should be valued […]
Read MoreDo I Have to Disclose All My Finances During a Divorce in Massachusetts?
In short, yes. In Massachusetts, General Probate Court Rule 401 requires you and your spouse fill out a financial statement. If your gross income is more than $75,000 a year, you must complete the more detailed Financial Statement Long Form. Otherwise, you can fill out and submit the short form. If you file any false […]
Read More