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 after January 1 will not be a tax-deductible expense for the person order to pay alimony, nor will it be taxable income to the recipient. In other words, there will be no tax consequences either way with respect to alimony payments.
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, and, quite frankly, it also saves parents a lot of time and stress as well.
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 situation changes.