Alimony is a series of monetary payments to an ex-spouse that may be mandated as part of a divorce decree. Paying alimony can be an expensive and painful process—and it is about to get much more painful, thanks to changes to the federal tax code. At present, those paying alimony may deduct the payments on […]
What are the benefits of choosing mediation over litigation in a divorce?
When most of us think of divorce, we think of custody battles, endless legal filings, and costly court proceedings. The whole process of divorce can seem more daunting, and perhaps even more painful, than the emotional aspects of a marriage’s dissolution. But what if there was another way? Another, more humane, more gentle, less expensive […]
How can I get full child custody?
I think my soon-to-be-ex-spouse is a bad influence on our children. How can I get full custody? A judge will be unlikely to respond to the argument “My ex is a bad influence” or “My ex doesn’t know what is best for the children.” Judges hear these arguments all day, every day, during acrimonious divorce […]
What Is Collaborative Law and How Does It Work?
Collaborative Law is a process by which the parties to a potential civil action, embark upon a civil and amicable negotiation, in the combined hope that it can be resolved without the intervention of the courts. In a civil action, Collaborative Law may be preferred because it has the potential to allow the parties to […]
How To Deal With False Allegations During Child Custody & Divorce
It seems like everyone knows a story about false allegations during child custody and divorce. One spouse points the finger at the other and receives a restraining order from the court. The wife or husband recognizes that doing this will, almost by default, give them custody of the children and exclusive use of the family […]
Ways to Discover Hidden Assets During a Divorce
Despite complications to the marriage, most people enter the divorce process believing their soon to be ex-spouse is an honest person. However, this is not always the situation. The fact is, dishonesty is a common reason for seeking a divorce. Regardless, even if you have no reason to suspect your former partner is a liar, […]
Massachusetts Family Law Regarding Separation
If you and your spouse are thinking it is time for a separation, there are some factors you should consider in order to make sure this is not only the right step for your family but also done in accordance of the law. Before any decisions are made, it would be beneficial to consult a […]
Divorce Mediation- An Effective Way To Move Your Divorce Forward
Mediation is a popular option for couples in Massachusetts when they have decided to divorce. A couple who has agreed that their marriage has reached a point of “irretrievable breakdown” according to Massachusetts General Law Chapter 208, due to no particular fault of either party, may want to seriously consider mediation. This is a “no […]
When Parents Divorce, the Children Get the House
By Nina Sovich Exes still share the family home, but therapists warn of the downsides Many divorced parents are opting to ‘nest,’ meaning they continue to share the family home to provide stability to their children. A common Sunday night ritual for children whose parents are divorced is packing up the schoolbooks and soccer cleats […]
Massachusetts Divorce and Separation Agreements
Divorce is a complicated and emotional endeavor. Naturally, divorcing parents of young children have additional considerations over childless couples. The many complexities involved in reaching a desired outcome during a divorce, are weighed according to a number of different factors. In some cases, it can be helpful to ask an attorney to draw up a […]