Because it marks a once-in-75-year change, this blog has written previously on the federal government's recent decision to adjust how alimony is treated for federal income tax purposes. To summarize our previous posts, any Massachusetts alimony order finalized on or...
Representation in high conflict custody situations
There is a lot of focus these days in the world of family law on the importance of parents putting aside at least some of their differences for the sake of their children and agreeing on a parenting plan. This is thought to be best for the well-being of the children,...
When can I ask for a change in child custody?
Even when both parents agreed at the outset, the reality is that child custody orders in Massachusetts are subject to be changed. This is not necessarily a bad thing, since the flexibility gives judges and parents the opportunity to make adjustments when a child's...
How does a temporary guardianship work?
This blog has, on previous occasions, talked about how those who have minor children in their lives who need immediate care can ask to be appointed as those children's guardian. Normally, the process of getting appointed as a child's guardian takes a formal process...
How does a second job affect child support?
Many people in Springfield, Massachusetts take second jobs, or do extra hours at their first jobs, in order to make ends meet. Sometimes, this is just a matter of having a little extra spending cash in one's wallet, while at other times a family literally cannot pay...
A final reminder about alimony and taxes
Although this blog previously discussed this, with the end of the year approaching, this is a great occasion to remind Massachusetts residents of upcoming changes in the way alimony gets handled for tax purposes. For divorces and other orders finalized before the end...
The house isn’t always worth the fight
For many couples in Massachusetts, the family home is a place full of memories and, at least at times, a place where one feels secure and safe. Financially, it is also a valuable investment, as many ordinary residents of Springfield have a lot, even the largest share,...
Does Massachusetts recognize legal separation?
Unlike many other states, Massachusetts has no formal process for legal separation. If a married couple wants to have a formal breakup, then their option is, generally speaking, to obtain a divorce. Otherwise, a couple who wishes to separate, but still remain married,...
October is a good time to support domestic violence victims
As has been the practice for decades now, October is the month in which people in particular remember and support victims of domestic violence. During this Domestic Violence Awareness Month, one way Massachusetts victims themselves can take a stand for their right not...
Standard for receiving guardianship without consent
As this blog has discussed on previous occasions, there are many people in Springfield who know children whose parents are simply not willing or not able to care for them properly. Things like drug addiction or mental illness can easily handicap a parent to the point...
