Does the Man Lose Everything in a Massachusetts Divorce?
In Massachusetts divorce cases, it’s crucial to dispel the misconception that one gender, particularly men, loses everything. The state follows equitable distribution, aiming for a fair division of assets based on various factors, such as: marriage duration, contributions, financial situations, and children’s best interests. This approach ensures that property division is not biased by gender, […]
Does the Man Always Lose the House in a Divorce in Massachusetts?
Gender does not dictate property division in Massachusetts divorces. The state follows equitable distribution, ensuring a fair split based on various factors such as marriage duration, contributions, and financial circumstances, regardless of gender. Introduction Divorce is a significant life event that brings about various concerns and uncertainties. One common misconception that often arises is the […]
Can You Be Too Poor to Divorce in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, your financial situation should not be a barrier to divorce. Affordable legal options, such as flat fees or pro bono services, can help. Additionally, court fee waivers for those with financial hardship can reduce costs. So, while divorce can be challenging, being “too poor” to divorce shouldn’t deter you from pursuing it if […]
Can You Contest a Divorce in Massachusetts?
Yes, you can contest a divorce in Massachusetts. Grounds for contesting include fault-based reasons and jurisdictional issues. It involves filing a response, gathering evidence, negotiation, and potentially going to trial. Legal representation is essential, but alternative options like mediation can also be explored. Understanding Divorce in Massachusetts In Massachusetts, divorce can be a complex and […]
What Happens at a Divorce Hearing in Massachusetts?
At a divorce hearing in Massachusetts, both parties present their cases, including evidence and witnesses. The judge considers issues like: asset division, child custody, support, and alimony. After deliberation, the judge issues a decision on the issues presented at the hearing, which is legally binding. Preparing for Your Divorce Hearing Understanding the divorce petition is […]
Does a Divorce Summons Have to Be Served in Person in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, while serving a divorce summons in person is a common practice, it’s not the only option. The state allows alternative methods of service, such as by publication and mailing. These alternatives provide flexibility, especially in cases where serving in person may be challenging, such as when a spouse’s whereabouts are unknown or when […]
Who Gets Alimony in a Massachusetts Divorce?
In Massachusetts, alimony, also known as spousal support, is not automatically granted in divorce cases. It’s determined based on various factors, including: the length of the marriage, financial need, the recipient’s ability to support themselves, and the contributions made by each spouse during the marriage. The court considers each case individually to decide if alimony […]
Is There an Advantage to Filing for Divorce First in Massachusetts?
Filing for divorce first in Massachusetts can provide some advantages such as: Jurisdiction control, Timeline management, and Strategic positioning. However, it won’t give you an overall advantage on the outcome. The court treats each party equally regardless of who filed first. Introduction Hello, and welcome to our discussion on divorce proceedings in Massachusetts. I understand […]
Is Massachusetts a Separate Property State?
Massachusetts employs an equitable distribution system for property division in divorce. This means that marital assets are divided fairly based on various factors, not necessarily equally. Separate property, acquired before the marriage or received specifically by one person during the marriage, for example through inheritance, is generally not divided in a divorce, but it can […]
How is Alimony Calculated in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, alimony calculations involve a comprehensive assessment of various factors. These factors include the income of each spouse, which encompasses not only their salaries but also bonuses, investments, and other financial resources. The court also takes into account the assets and liabilities of both spouses, ensuring that a fair distribution of financial resources is […]