Massachusetts residents may be interested in a recent case that challenges the state's alimony reform statute of 2011. There are four alimony types under the new law, including general alimony that is based on the length of time the marriage lasted and rehabilitative...
A Brighter Future Is Within Your Reach
Year: 2014
Howard’s first wife leaves no spousal support for his second wife
Because the circumstances of every divorce are different, it would be wise for both spouses to obtain legal counsel before signing any agreements. Emotions may lead an individual to agree to spousal support when it may not be in his or her best interest. Obtaining the...
Divorce mediation may help to avoid future litigation
Couples in Massachusetts that are considering divorce may want to avoid costly and ongoing litigation. Each spouse would likely want to protect his or her own interests. In addition to property division, child custody and spousal support, couples may find it difficult...
Judge orders divorce mediation to settle trust fund issues
Massachusetts couples who are considering divorce may identify with a multitude of contentious issues that may produce stumbling blocks along the way. This is especially true when there are children involved. More and more divorcing couples and family courts are...
Same-sex spouses only eligible for SSA benefits in nuptial states
While nontraditional families across America continue the battle for equality regarding laws relating to same-sex marriage and divorce, the wheels of change are slowly turning. Since part of the Defense of Marriage Act was declared unconstitutional by the United...
Social Security benefits for same-sex divorce after 10 years
Just over a year after the U.S. Supreme Court announced the changes to the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), federal benefits of same-sex couples were recently expanded. However, without extensive expansion of legislation, same-sex spouses will remain in an...
Understanding child custody laws may avoid disputes and trauma
It is not uncommon for Massachusetts couples who are considering divorce to hold back on filing in court because of the trauma that is often associated with child custody disputes. Couples may find it beneficial to gain knowledge on matters related to child custody....
Child custody battle of mother who provides too much care
Most parents in Massachusetts have an overwhelming concern for the welfare of their children and would do anything to keep them from danger. Parents naturally attempt to provide any medical care their children need, although a mother in another state is accused of...
Stay-at-home same-sex spouse has questions about alimony
A partner in a same-sex couple who is considering divorce recently asked a question about alimony. She wanted to know whether she would be eligible, and if she was, for how long would she receive alimony from her spouse. Same-sex couples in Massachusetts may be...
Child custody myths may puzzle divorcing couples in Massachusetts
Most divorces present multiple challenges to both spouses, and couples who are unable to work through contentious matters may find themselves fighting long and stressful battles. Issues such as child custody, child support and spousal support may bring out the worst...