Gaps between federal pension laws and state divorce laws often leave divorcing couples unsure of how to divide their individual retirement accounts. Learn why you may need a QDRO below for thorough asset distribution. What Is a QDRO? A Qualified Domestic Relations Order, or QDRO (pronounced “quadro”), is a legal court order that tells a […]
Read MoreBrowse our law blog for Massachusetts-specific family law and divorce topics
Divorce for LGBTQIA+ Couples: Avoiding Potential Pitfalls
If you’re considering ending your marriage, you may wonder if the process is different for LGBTQIA+ couples. Massachusetts law doesn’t distinguish between same-sex or gay marriage and heterosexual unions. Still, some legal challenges remain when it comes to divorce for LGBTQIA+ couples. LGBTQIA+ Divorce Rules Lag Behind Same-Sex Law in Massachusetts Our state is a […]
Read MoreAsset Recognition, Valuation, and Distribution in a High-Net-Worth Divorce in Massachusetts
You can win — or lose — a lot in a high-net-worth divorce. Hiring an attorney with extensive experience in the recognition, valuation, and distribution of high-value assets is critical to securing a favorable settlement. Why High-Net-Worth Divorces Are Difficult Handling high-net-worth assets can be challenging. You must identify, value, and distribute both tangible and […]
Read MoreStock Options and Executive Compensation in Divorce
Co-authored by Jennifer Koiles Pratt and Michael I. Flores When a divorce involves a spouse employed as a higher-level executive, the financial issues involved in property division, alimony, and child support become much more complicated. The executive compensation landscape has changed and now involves much more than just an annual salary, health insurance, and a […]
Read MoreOut-of-State Child Support Modifications
Out-of-state child support modifications can be complex but are possible. Read on to learn how to modify Massachusetts child support payments if the other parent lives out of state. When Can You Modify a Child Support Order in Massachusetts? You may be able to renegotiate child support judgments either with the consent of the other […]
Read MoreChild Support Doesn’t Automatically End When Your Child Turns 18
Child support payments don’t stop the day your child turns 18. There are many factors involved in modifying or terminating child support in Massachusetts, so you need to understand the legal guidelines in these areas if you plan to amend your child support agreement. Your child may become a legal adult when they turn 18, […]
Read MoreWhat Business Owners Need to Know When Considering Divorce in MA
It is never easy to divide up assets when a couple divorces in Massachusetts. However, when one or both partners own interests in a closely-held business, the task becomes far more complicated, both financially and emotionally. It is a good idea to take special care with issues that can potentially cause problems right from the […]
Read MoreCan You Modify Child Support If You Lost Your Job? Maybe.
If you pay child support but recently lost your job, you may be able to request a modification to the child support order. The court will consider a range of factors alongside your financial circumstances to determine whether to approve your request. Read on to learn how to modify child support in Massachusetts and other […]
Read MoreA Collaborative Divorce Puts Children First
When parents divorce, the effect on their children is usually the biggest worry and there’s good reason for that concern, because the short and long-term effects can be devastating. On the other hand, when the process goes smoothly, divorce can pave the way for a more enjoyable home life and have a very positive outcome. […]
Read More