Child support enforcement is a crucial issue for parents who depend on these payments to provide for their children. In Massachusetts, both parents are legally obligated to contribute to the financial well-being of their child, even after a divorce or separation. When one parent fails to meet their obligations, it can create financial strain and…
In Massachusetts, facing charges of domestic assault and battery can have profound legal and personal implications. Recognizing the seriousness of these accusations and the specifics of Massachusetts law is crucial for anyone accused or researching this sensitive subject. This article provides an overview of what domestic assault and battery entail under state law, the potential…
In Massachusetts, co-parenting arrangements are established to ensure that both parents remain active and engaged in their children’s lives post-divorce. Understanding the legal responsibilities and court orders related to co-parenting is crucial for parents to create a stable environment for their children. Legal Framework for Co-Parenting In Massachusetts, co-parenting arrangements are typically outlined in a…
Drug offenses in Massachusetts carry serious legal consequences that can significantly impact an individual’s life. As experienced criminal defense lawyers, we understand the complexities of drug-related charges and the importance of a robust defense strategy. In this article, we will explore the legal implications of drug possession, distribution, and trafficking under Massachusetts law, provide examples…
Co-parenting after a divorce or separation can be challenging, but with the right approach and understanding of Massachusetts laws, it can be managed effectively. As family law attorneys, we are committed to helping parents navigate this complex terrain. In this article, we provide essential tips and legal insights on co-parenting in Massachusetts, discuss common challenges,…
Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offense in Massachusetts, known legally as Operating Under the Influence (OUI). As experienced criminal defense attorneys representing individuals charged with OUI in Massachusetts, our firm educates the public on the laws, penalties, and defensive tactics to protect their rights. Understanding these aspects can help individuals navigate…
Divorce is a life-altering event, particularly for stay-at-home mothers who have dedicated decades to raising their children and managing the household. After 20+ years of marriage, the prospect of starting over can be overwhelming. Common questions often arise: Where do I start? Do I need a lawyer? Do I need to move out of the…
Operating Under the Influence, commonly known as OUI, is a serious criminal offense in Massachusetts. It refers to the act of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both, to the extent that one’s ability to safely operate the vehicle is impaired. In Massachusetts, the legal limit…
When it comes to safeguarding assets and interests in marriage, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are invaluable tools. Understanding the significance of these agreements in protecting financial security and peace of mind is crucial. Prenuptial Agreements: Anticipating the Future Prenuptial agreements, commonly known as prenups, are legal contracts entered into by couples before marriage, outlining the…
Court orders are not suggestions but legal obligations. When one party fails to comply with court orders, it can lead to contempt of court proceedings. In Massachusetts, understanding the ramifications of contempt in family law cases is crucial. As experienced family law attorneys in Massachusetts, we aim to shed light on this complex issue, outlining…
Divorce can be a complex and emotionally challenging process, especially when a business is involved. For business owners in Massachusetts, protecting their business interests during divorce proceedings is paramount. Understanding the state’s laws and regulations regarding property division and asset protection is crucial for safeguarding the future of the business. Understanding Massachusetts Property Division Laws…
Navigating child custody matters can be a challenging journey for parents. In Massachusetts, as in many other states, child custody orders are not set in stone and can be modified under certain circumstances. Understanding the Initial Child Custody Order Before delving into modifications, it’s crucial to understand the dynamics of the initial child custody order.…
In Massachusetts, understanding the complexities surrounding assault and battery charges is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we aim to shed light on the definitions, degrees, and potential defenses for assault and battery charges, including insights into domestic assault and battery cases. Understanding Assault and Battery: In Massachusetts, assault and battery are distinct but related offenses.…
Navigating the Complexities of Divorce Across State Lines If you’re seeking a divorce in Massachusetts but you or your spouse reside in another state, understanding the challenges of obtaining a divorce in a different jurisdiction is vital. Here are a few things you may consider when pursuing a divorce in Massachusetts while one spouse is…
What is a Gray Divorce Gray divorce refers to the dissolution of a marriage involving individuals typically aged 50 and older. These divorces often come after decades of marriage, making them distinct from divorces that occur earlier in life. Legal Considerations in Massachusetts If you have been married for 20+ years and contemplating divorce in…
In the state of Massachusetts, individuals are required to cooperate with law enforcement officers in certain situations, including identifying themselves when lawfully asked by a police officer. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in legal consequences. This article aims to shed light on the laws surrounding the failure to identify to a police…
The Bill of Rights refers to the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution. It was added to the Constitution shortly after its ratification in order to address concerns raised by the Anti-Federalists, who felt that the original Constitution did not sufficiently protect individual rights and liberties. The Bill of Rights was ratified on…
Divorce can be a challenging and emotional process, but having a solid understanding of the divorce laws in your state can help you navigate the legal complexities more effectively. If you are considering or going through a divorce in Massachusetts, this comprehensive guide will provide you with valuable information about the divorce laws specific to…
Drunk driving, or operating under the influence (OUI), is a serious crime in Massachusetts. The state has strict laws in place to deter individuals from driving while impaired, and the penalties for OUI are severe. Understanding the charges and consequences of OUI is essential for anyone who may face such charges in the state. In…
A police officer in Massachusetts can demand identification from passengers in a car that has been pulled over for a traffic violation. According to Massachusetts law, a police officer may request identification from anyone in the vehicle if they have reasonable suspicion to believe that person is involved in criminal activity. The driver of the…
209A and Harassment Orders are protective orders issued by courts in Massachusetts to protect individuals from domestic abuse, harassment, and stalking. These orders are intended to provide a measure of safety and security for the person seeking protection, and they can include provisions such as restraining the abuser from contacting the protected person, or requiring…
Getting a divorce is a challenging experience, and the laws surrounding divorce can be overwhelming. One of the most crucial requirements for filing for divorce in Massachusetts is meeting the residency requirements. If you are contemplating a divorce and are unsure of the residency requirements in Massachusetts, read on to learn the essential information on…
Field sobriety tests are a common tool used by law enforcement officers to determine whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol. In Massachusetts, if you are pulled over on suspicion of drunk driving, you may be asked to perform a field sobriety test. While these tests can be useful in determining whether someone…
The Supreme Judicial Court’s recent decision in the case of Cavanaugh v. Cavanaugh has had a major impact on how alimony and child support are calculated in Massachusetts family court cases. The court’s decision, which was issued in June 2022, has revised the way in which income is considered when determining support payments, and has…
Assault is a serious crime that involves intentionally causing or attempting to cause harm to another person. When the assault is carried out with a weapon or causes serious bodily injury, it is known as aggravated assault. In Massachusetts, aggravated assault is a felony offense that carries severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and a criminal…
When it comes to dividing assets in a divorce case, the value of a small business can be one of the most challenging assets to appraise. In Massachusetts, the value of a small business is determined by the court based on a variety of factors including the income generated by the business, the assets of…
Divorce can be challenging. Even if both parties are on board, divorce is a significant life shift, and with that comes stress, uncertainty, and change. As your needs, priorities, and goals take on a new course, one thing you don’t want to overlook is your estate plan. Estate plans typically contain important documents regarding your…
Many people imagine that a marriage of short duration, say a year or less, is automatically eligible for an annulment. However, annulments are granted in only very specific circumstances, circumstances that have no relation to the length of the marriage. A marriage which a Massachusetts Family Court will annul is one that is either void…
Whether you are facing a divorce, requesting a change in custody, or updating your parenting plan, working with the other parent is typically in your child’s best interest. However, that may be easier said than done. When it comes down to creating a parenting schedule that works for all parties involved, there may need to…
While marriage gives certain rights and benefits to a couple and their children—favorable tax filing status, hospital visitation rights, and more—the children of unmarried parents are not without legal protection and benefits. Regardless of parents’ marital status, children are entitled to both parents’ financial support. Establishing the paternity of a child born to unmarried parents…
It may not be romantic, but every couple needs to talk about finances well in advance of heading down the aisle. These conversations can be hard: finances (and the attendant difficulty in communicating about them) are a major stressor in American marriages. Discussing each partner’s debts, liabilities, and assets before wedding bells ring can build…
Mistakes happen. Perhaps a drink at a bar was stronger than anticipated. Perhaps a new medication unexpectedly reduced one’s tolerance. Now, consequences may be much worse than a ticket. This article will review the possible charges you may face if someone is killed or injured as a result of an accident that occurred while you…
When a marriage ends, the divorcing couple must decide how to divide the marital assets. Unless otherwise outlined in a pre-or post-nuptial agreement, all assets acquired during the marriage are considered marital assets under Massachusetts divorce law. This includes money as well as personal property, stocks, real estate, debt, and business interests. The division of…
My client, Mr. Rodriguez, was observed by police handing an individual a small package which was suspected of being heroin. This individual was later apprehended by the police and allegedly swallowed the contents of the package before the police could seize it. Subsequently, Mr. Rodriguez was observed by police getting into a vehicle in Worcester,…
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