What Happens When Spouses Disagree on Property Valuation? In a Massachusetts divorce, determining the value of marital property can become one of the most contested parts of the process. Disagreements over the value of a home, business, investment, retirement account, or other substantial asset can directly affect how property is divided. When spouses cannot agree,…
Divorce
Court-Appointed Guardian ad Litem
In addition to my work as a divorce attorney, mediator and estate planning attorney, I have been qualified to accept appointments as a Category F Guardian ad Litem (GAL) by the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court for Suffolk, Middlesex, Essex, and Norfolk Counties. As a Category F Guardian ad Litem, I can receive appointments by…
Divorce Settlement vs. Estate Plan: Making Sure They Work Together
Finalizing a divorce settlement is often viewed as the end of a legal process, but ideally it should also be a time to review your finances. Your estate plan represents an important part of your financial plan. While a divorce agreement divides assets and establishes financial obligations between former spouses, your estate planning documents determine…
What if Your Massachusetts Prenuptial Agreement Is Enforced? What to Expect and When to Hire an Attorney
Many people get a prenup to provide clarity and financial security but are less sure what happens if the prenup is actually enforced during a divorce. If you have a valid Massachusetts prenuptial agreement, it can have a big impact on how property is divided, whether either spouse pays alimony, and what financial issues remain…
High-Net-Worth Divorce in Massachusetts: Why Litigation Is Sometimes Unavoidable
Many high-net-worth divorces in Massachusetts begin with the hope of a private, efficient resolution through negotiation or mediation. In some cases, that is entirely possible. But when substantial assets, business interests, executive compensation, trusts, or contested parenting issues are involved, litigation is sometimes unavoidable. Why High-Net-Worth Divorces Become More Complex Massachusetts is an equitable distribution…
Hidden Assets in Divorce: Red Flags and Massachusetts Disclosure Rules
When one spouse appears to be hiding assets, divorce can get complicated very quickly. Whether it’s an undisclosed bank account, undervalued property, or concealed business income, hidden assets can distort the division of marital property, leaving one spouse with far less than they are legally entitled to. If you’re divorcing in Massachusetts and you suspect…
What the “One Big, Beautiful, Bill Act” Means for Your Estate Plan
Starting January 1, 2026, the federal estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax exemption will rise to $15 million per person, or $30 million for married couples, indexed for inflation. This exemption is permanent, unlike past provisions that were set to expire, offering long-term planning certainty. However, the 40% top tax rate remains in…
How Much Will It Cost for Me to Get Divorced in 2025?
The cost of divorce in Massachusetts varies significantly, depending on the type of divorce and how amicably the parties can resolve their issues. For those pursuing an uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all terms and file a Joint Petition for Divorce, costs are typically modest, ranging from $3,000.00 to $ 5,000.00. These…
Have You Lost That Loving Feeling and Are You Headed for Divorce?
Marriage can be a beautiful journey, but it also comes with its challenges. Sometimes, the spark that once ignited the relationship fades, leaving one or both partners feeling apathetic and disconnected. If you find yourself in this situation, feeling like you’re no longer in love with your spouse and questioning whether the marriage is worth…
Don’t Forget the Importance of Estate Planning When it Comes to Divorce
At Amaral & Associates P.C. We are focused on two main areas, Family Law and Estate Planning. We can help your family plan for the future so that in the case of an unexpected illness or unexpected family member’s passing, most everything can be taken care of with some advance planning. Health challenges aren’t the…
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