Divorce can be a long and complex process, involving many legal steps—and it can become even more complicated when alimony is part of the picture. In Massachusetts, a court may award alimony when one spouse needs financial support and the other spouse has the ability...
Does a new spouse’s income affect child support?
Remarriage can feel like a fresh start, but child support can make the financial side more complicated. If you or your former partner is getting married again, you may worry that a new spouse’s paycheck could raise what you owe or reduce what you receive. That concern...
Should you file for divorce first in Massachusetts?
Deciding to file for divorce is one of the most consequential decisions you may make in your life. You have to weigh both the merits and the demerits before setting foot in a Massachusetts court. Here is what you need to know. Why filing first matters In the eyes of...
Custody plans for a child with special needs
When you separate from your spouse, protecting your child's health and daily comfort comes first. Massachusetts courts focus on keeping established care plans and daily routines steady for your child. If a proposed schedule creates unnecessary disruptions, a judge can...
Recognizing premarital cohabitation in a same-sex divorce
Massachusetts was the first state to legalize same-sex marriage in 2004. Prior to this, many couples shared lives, finances and homes for years before they were legally permitted to say “I do.” When the marriage ends in a divorce, many wonder if that period of...
Can I divorce my spouse for financial incompatibility?
Money disagreements can cause a significant strain on a marriage. Differences over spending, debt, saving or financial priorities may eventually lead some couples to consider divorce. If this is what you are currently facing, understanding the nuances of the topic...
How do Massachusetts courts evaluate custody arrangements?
When parents divorce or separate, deciding where a child will live and how parenting responsibilities will be shared can be challenging. When parents are unable to reach an agreement, a Massachusetts court may intervene to determine which custody arrangement is in the...
Who gets the kids on holidays? 3 ways to make co-parenting work
Holidays bring joy and excitement, but they can also create stress for parents who share custody. While many families look forward to traditions and time together, questions often come up about where the children will spend each holiday. These moments can feel even...
Can your disability lead to the denial of custody of your child?
A parent’s disability doesn’t automatically give grounds to deny custody. Massachusetts courts take various factors and circumstances into account before arriving at a decision. Even so, as a parent with a disability, you still might face challenges in the court. How...
3 things to remember if your ex stops paying child support
Your life can turn upside down after getting a divorce. Suddenly you may be responsible for your kids separately from your spouse, managing your finances and child support allowance. If your ex-spouse stops providing child support, you may get into a financial burden....
