Do Both People Need to Say Yes to Get a Divorce in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, divorce does not require the agreement of both spouses. While it’s preferable for both parties to consent, one-person divorce filings are allowed. One spouse can initiate the process, even if the other opposes it. However, the process can vary depending on whether it’s uncontested or contested, and seeking legal advice is advisable to […]
Is Massachusetts a No-Fault Divorce State?
In Massachusetts, divorce is primarily based on the “irretrievable breakdown of the marriage,” which means no fault or wrongdoing needs to be proven. This makes Massachusetts a clear no-fault divorce state, allowing couples to divorce without assigning blame or proving misconduct. Understanding Divorce Laws in Massachusetts Divorce law governs the process of legally ending a […]
Do You and Your Partner Need to Agree to Get a Divorce in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, you can file for divorce without your partner’s agreement. This would be a for a contested or what’s called a 1B divorce. In order to file for an uncontested divorce you and your spouse not only have to agree to the divorce, but to all the issues of the divorce before you file. […]
How Long Does Divorce Mediation Take in Massachusetts?
The duration of divorce mediation in Massachusetts is influenced by several factors, including: the complexity of the issues, the willingness of both parties to compromise, and legal representation. In general, the process may take a few months to a year. However, it’s important to note that every case is unique, and timelines can vary. Understanding […]
Who Gets the House in a Massachusetts Divorce?
In a Massachusetts divorce, the court will typically distribute the marital home equitably, considering various factors, including each spouse’s financial contributions, childcare responsibilities, and individual circumstances. It’s not an automatic 50/50 split; the outcome varies case by case. The Marital Home The family home, full of memories of holidays, birthdays and all those ordinary days […]
Does My Husband Have to Pay the Bills Until We Are Divorced in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, your husband may be required to continue paying bills during divorce proceedings. This is typically decided through temporary orders by the court, which address financial responsibilities until the final divorce decree.https://youtu.be/JlkPiBZMsdI?rel=0 Bill Payments Until Divorce Finalization in Massachusetts Embarking on a divorce process brings many uncertainties, especially regarding financial obligations. One of the […]
Can You Divorce After 50 Years of Marriage in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, it is possible to divorce after any duration of marriage, including after 50 years. The process and considerations for what is known as a “gray divorce” (divorcing after the age of 50) involve specific challenges, particularly regarding the division of retirement accounts, pensions, and other assets accumulated over a long marriage. Massachusetts is […]
Who Usually Initiates Divorce in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, it is reported that women initiate divorce much more often than men. According to research cited by Psychology Today, almost 70% of divorces are initiated by women. This is consistent with national trends where women more frequently initiate divorce proceedings compared to men. A variety of factors may influence this, including societal expectations, […]
What Happens if Spouse Doesn’t Respond to Divorce in Massachusetts?
If a spouse doesn’t respond to a divorce petition in Massachusetts, the court may grant a default judgment. This means the court presumes the non-responding spouse agrees to the terms proposed by the petitioning spouse, which could include property division, child custody, and spousal support. If the petitioning spouse can show they have properly served […]
What is the First Step When You Decide to Divorce in Massachusetts?
The first step when deciding to divorce in Massachusetts is determining whether you are filing a contested or uncontested divorce, and whether the divorce will be fault or no-fault. In a contested divorce, the spouses have not come to full agreement on the terms, whereas in an uncontested divorce, both parties agree on all issues […]