It is common practice for divorcing or separated parents to share legal custody. The term “legal custody” does not simply refer to the breakdown of parenting time in the order approved by the courts. Instead, legal custody specifically refers to the authority that...
Divorce
What is joint and sole custody?
There are several family matters that are discussed during a divorce. Couples will often talk about asset division and alimony. However, divorcing parents usually have a major pressing matter that is more important to discuss: child custody. Whether both parents will...
How to protect yourself from your spouse’s debt during divorce
Divorce is never easy, especially when your spouse is carrying significant debt. Emotions can run high, but staying focused on your well-being is essential. Whether you’re dealing with shared credit cards, loans or a mortgage, your spouse’s financial obligations could...
Can you travel out of state with your children after divorce?
Now is the time of year when people start planning for the upcoming summer. Short day trips to Boston, catching a baseball game, family reunions and week-long vacations make the summer fly by. If you’re recently divorced and new to joint custody and co-parenting, you...
Legal protections for victims of abuse in Massachusetts
While family law mainly centers around divorce and child custody issues, it can also protect victims of domestic abuse. If you or someone you love is in danger, it’s important to know the legal options available. When a relationship turns toxic and abuse occurs, the...
Which parent chooses where their children attend school?
Parents may have a hard time controlling their emotions when they talk with each other. They may fight over issues because of their intense emotions. Some of the decisions that parents make are minor and have limited long-term consequences. Other times, parenting...
Pre-divorce planning: 3 beneficial steps to take
Many divorces seem to happen out of nowhere, with one spouse filing papers and initiating the process without notice. Other times, a couple talks things over and agrees that divorce is the best solution. One advantage an agreed-upon divorce offers is the opportunity...
Tips for starting the divorce conversation with your spouse
The way you discuss divorce with your spouse can significantly impact the case. If this conversation begins with conflict and contention, the divorce proceedings may follow a similar tone. However, if approached calmly and peacefully, the process may lead to an...
Can grandparents seek visitation rights?
Grandparents often play a significant role in their grandchildren’s lives, providing love, care and support. However, situations can arise where visitation with grandchildren becomes complicated, especially in cases of divorce, family disputes or other family...
Why do people wait until January to file for divorce?
December may be all about family togetherness – but January is often about divorce and splitting up. There’s a surge in new divorce filings at the start of every new year, and the odds are high that these are not triggered by sudden events. In other words, people are...
