Massachusetts Family Law Blog

Mediation

2011-12-14T11:32:00.000-05:00

Mediation is niot always the answer for people going through a divorce. While mediation may sometimes be helpful, the mediator is NOT a legal advisor to the individuals. Some mediated agreements are incomplete. Others may favor one party over the other. Mediation is a vehicle to settle a dispute - however the settlement can often negatively impact future rights - all parties should have independent legal advice.

WHAT IS A GUARDIAN AD LITEM IN A FAMILY LAW MATTER

2011-12-06T10:01:00.000-05:00

In many family law cases, especially those dealing with children, the court will appoint a guardian ad litem or GAL. The GAL is empowered to investigate the case, speak to the parties, speak to the children and any other witnesses suggested by the parties. Normally the GAL is either a lawyer familiar with family law and custody matters, or a professional psychologist or social worker. After the GAL concludes the investigation, he or she issues a written report which is reviewed by the court and the parties. The cost of the GAL is often split by the parties and the fees can be substantial. A judge is not required to follow any recommendations made by a GAL, but many do. Some Judges do not ask the GAL for recomndations.

In any family law matter it is important to have an attorney to help advise you. In Massachusetts you can have a lawyer handle the entire case, or you can request that the lawyer file a limited appearance for discreet matters related to the case.

CHILD CUSTODY -REMOVAL OF CHILD FROM MASSACHUSETTS

2011-12-06T09:49:00.000-05:00

A parent with custody of a child in Massachusetts cannot leave the state without the permission of the other parent, or the permission of the court after a hearing. Removing a child from the state of Massachusetts to another state disrupts the relationship between the child and the other parent and alters the legal rights of the parties. There are many valid reasons for removal - however, removal is not a certainty in every case. It is important to know your rights whether you want to move, or whether you oppose such a move.

Modification of Divorce Judgments

2011-11-30T19:52:00.000-05:00

You may be entitled to a modification of your existing divorce judgment, either to increase or decrease alimony or child support payments based on a substantial change in circumstances such as lay-offs, wage increases, loss of medical insurance or increased expenses. Our firm has been successful in modifying divorce judgments in such cases.

New Alimony Law

2011-11-30T19:41:00.000-05:00

The new alimony law will become effective in March 2012. This new law alters the rules for payment, duration and amounts of alimony paid by and to divorced spouses in Massachusetts. The new law may affect existing alimony orders! Knowing your rights and options under this new law is important. If you are contemplating a divorce, or if you are presently paying alimony contact us for an evaluation of your case before the new law becomes effective.

Mediation

2011-11-30T11:57:00.001-05:00

While mediation may be a good way to resolve some divorce cases, it often favors one party over the other. To obtain a fair and just result it is always best to be represented by a skilled attorney who will protect your rights in ways that mediators cannot. For one of the most important decisions in your life and for your future know your rights and consult us.

Our firm has successfully settled and brought to trial many complex divorce, alimony, contempts and custody matters.