Yes. In Massachusetts, a substantial change in childcare costs can support a child support modification. Because the state's guidelines account for work-related childcare expenses, a major increase or decrease in those costs can make the current order outdated. When...
Why your digital footprint matters in family court
When parents clash over serious legal issues like child custody, the stress and fear of what is at stake can cause some to make unwise decisions and missteps. In modern custody cases, these mistakes often play out online. With this in mind, it is crucial to understand...
How retirement accounts are divided in same-sex divorces
Retirement accounts are often among the largest assets in a divorce. Same-sex couples in Massachusetts may ask whether pensions, 401(k)s or Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) receive the same treatment as in other marriages. Massachusetts applies the same rules to...
Can job loss lead to a custody modification in Massachusetts?
Losing your job brings financial stress and uncertainty, especially when you share custody of your children. You may wonder whether this change allows you to request different parenting arrangements. Massachusetts courts recognize that circumstances change and certain...
How Massachusetts courts award alimony in divorce
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...
