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 […]
How Much is Alimony in Massachusetts?
How Much is Alimony in Massachusetts? In Massachusetts, there’s no fixed amount for alimony. Courts consider factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial situation, conduct during marriage, and future needs when determining alimony payments. It’s a case-specific calculation, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to “how much” alimony will be awarded. It’s crucial […]
Is Massachusetts an Alimony State?
General Term Alimony Massachusetts is indeed an alimony state, meaning it has well-established laws governing spousal support or alimony. These laws outline different types of alimony, including temporary, rehabilitative, reimbursement, and general term alimony. One of the most important legal changes in recent years is the Alimony Reform Act of 2011, which brought about substantial […]
Is Adultery Against the Law in Massachusetts?
Adultery is no longer against the law in Massachusetts. It is recognized as valid ground for divorce, however. It can also affect your no-fault divorce. If proven, it can influence alimony, property division, and child custody arrangements, potentially affecting the outcome of the divorce case. Defining Adultery Understanding Adultery in Massachusetts Adultery, in the context […]
Who Pays Alimony in a Massachusetts Divorce?
In Massachusetts, the responsibility for alimony payments is determined by the court based on various factors, including each spouse’s financial situation and needs. It’s not solely the higher-earning spouse who pays; either spouse can be ordered to pay alimony if the court deems it necessary for the financial well-being of the other spouse. The court […]