When spouses are going through a divorce, one thing that always must be addressed is property division. However, when one or both spouses own a business, or even have an interest in a business, property division can be much more complicated. A common question spouses ask is: Do I have to give my spouse part…
divorce and your assets
Sound Reasons Why You Should Mediate Your Divorce.
I have been a divorce attorney for over 25 years and a divorce mediator for almost as long. When a potential client asks me whether they should mediate their divorce or whether they should just get their own attorney and file for a contested divorce, I tell them the following. A contested divorce can last…
FAQ’s About Divorce in Massachusetts
Here are some common FAQ’s About Divorce in Massachusetts: Q: Should I file first for divorce? A: The answer to this question is largely a case-specific answer. The determination of value of assets, which goes to the equitable division of marital assets pursuant to M.G.L. c. 208 §34, is determined from the date of marriage…
Financial Planning For and During a Divorce
A divorce brings about many changes in a person’s life. One of the most significant changes is the financial impact of a divorce. Spouses go from having a combined household with (usually) two separate incomes, to living apart, and supporting themselves on their own. If you are contemplating a divorce, or have already filed for…
Financial Disclosure in a Divorce
When spouses are going through a divorce, a common concern is that their husband/wife will not fully disclose their assets. In Massachusetts, to protect against this issue, the Court issued Supplemental Probate Court Rule 410, in which both parties must exchange certain financial information within 45 days after the defendant was served the summons and…
Can I Modify My Separation Agreement?
It is not uncommon for a spouse to want to modify certain provisions of his or her Separation Agreement after a divorce. As time goes on, circumstances will most certainly change for the former spouses. However it is important that spouses make any changes through the Probate and Family Court, and not through a private…
Financial Planning For and During a Divorce
A divorce brings about many changes in a person’s life. One of the most significant changes is the financial impact of a divorce. Spouses go from having a combined household with (usually) two separate incomes, to living apart, and supporting themselves on their own. If you are contemplating a divorce, or have already filed for…
Pet “Custody” and Divorce
In all families, pets are just as an important member of the family as anyone else. Unfortunately, the law has not caught up with this view. Therefore, when spouses divorce, “custody” of a pet is not treated on the same level, legally speaking, as custody of child. In child custody matters, the legal standard is…
Prenuptial Agreements in Massachusetts
Q: What is a Prenuptial Agreement? A: A Prenuptial Agreement is a contract between an engaged couple who is planning to marry, in which the contract, divides all (or some) of each individual’s property in the event of divorce and/or death. It can also determine whether any alimony will be paid in the event of…
How Much Will My Divorce Cost?
Many times one of the first questions a potential client will ask our firm is “How much will my divorce cost?” Unfortunately, there is no straight answer for this question. There are many variable factors that can affect how much a divorce will cost, and there is no “standard” legal fees for a divorce. One…
