Law Offices of Ira C. Yellin, LLC FindLaw IM Template 2026-06-05T21:04:18Z https://www.yellinlaw.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1100910/2019/05/cropped-site-icon-32x32.jpg On Behalf of Law Offices of Ira C. Yellin, LLC <![CDATA[Will working from home help your custody case?]]> https://www.yellinlaw.com/?p=52840 2026-06-05T21:04:18Z 2026-06-05T21:04:18Z How remote work has changed parenting schedules Working from home can make certain parenting responsibilities easier to manage. Some examples include:
  • Handling school drop-offs and pickups
  • Attending parent-teacher conferences and school events
  • Supervising children after school
  • Spending less time commuting
  • Accommodating parenting-time exchanges during the week
If you work remotely, you may have more flexibility to participate in your child's daily routine. For some families, that flexibility can make shared parenting schedules easier to manage than they would be with a traditional commute.

Why courts still focus on the child's best interests

Even if you work from home, courts will look at much more than your job location when evaluating custody arrangements. The central question remains whether a parenting plan supports your child's needs and well-being. Courts may consider your involvement in your child's life, your relationship with your child and your ability to meet your child's needs. Working remotely does not always mean you are available throughout the day. Some remote jobs require long meetings or strict schedules. Courts may also consider practical issues such as childcare responsibilities, transportation arrangements and how a proposed parenting schedule will work on a day-to-day basis.

Parenting plans must work in practice

Remote work has changed how many parents balance work and family responsibilities. In some households, that flexibility can support greater involvement in a child's daily routine. Custody decisions do not depend solely on where you work. Courts look at whether a proposed parenting arrangement will meet a child's needs and function successfully over time. As remote and hybrid work remain common, parenting plans may continue to evolve, but the focus remains on creating arrangements that support children and their day-to-day lives.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Ira C. Yellin, LLC <![CDATA[3 ways parenting plans may need to vary according to age]]> https://www.yellinlaw.com/?p=52838 2026-06-04T15:45:34Z 2026-06-04T15:45:34Z It’s easy when thinking about custody and parenting plans to fall into the trap of treating all children the same. The reality is that the requirements of one child to the next can vary hugely. One factor that is often behind this is their age. A plan that works well for a child of one particular age may be disastrous for one of a different age. This can be true even within the same family. Here are some of the ways things may differ.

1. The amount of time needed with parents 

Older teenagers generally do not require the presence of their parents as much as toddlers or babies. They may spend most of their day at school, and much of the rest of their time studying, or out with friends or partaking in activities. This can free up their parents to work longer hours or pursue their own interests. By contrast, a very young child needs almost constant attention. A young child may need daily calls from the parent they are not with to be considered in the parenting plan. A teen may not want to engage in such regular conversation, and can also just ring or message whenever they want from their cell phone.

2. The expenses to be split

Educational expenses are often fairly low when the kids are younger, as most attend free schools. Once a child goes to college, the cost will rise considerably with tuition fees and perhaps college accommodation to consider. The ratio co-parents use to split costs may no longer be feasible if one parent does not earn enough.

3. The importance of location

When your child is young, they may happily spend their spare time playing at either parent’s house, wherever they are situated. As they become older, they might find the location of one of the homes suits them much better. Perhaps one parent lives in the town where most of their friends live. Or maybe one makes it easier to get the bus to sports practice, while the other does not have a regular bus service, so they can only go when someone can drive them. Determining the ideal parenting plan can be challenging, and once you do make one, you may need to alter it as your child grows. Legal guidance can be helpful to make or amend yours. ]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Ira C. Yellin, LLC <![CDATA[What happens at a bankruptcy 341 meeting in Massachusetts?]]> https://www.yellinlaw.com/?p=52807 2026-05-19T15:16:07Z 2026-05-19T15:16:07Z What the bankruptcy trustee does A trustee conducts the meeting rather than a judge. In Massachusetts, 341 meetings may be held remotely (Zoom/telephone) or in person, depending on the notice. At the meeting, the trustee places you under oath, verifies your identity and reviews the information in your forms. They may ask about your assets, income, expenses, debts and whether your schedules are accurate. In a Chapter 13 case, the trustee may ask whether your proposed repayment plan is realistic based on your income and monthly costs. They may also ask if you understand how a discharge eliminates certain debts. While creditors may attend to ask about collateral (like a car or mortgage), they rarely appear in consumer cases. If the trustee requires more information, they may request additional records or continue the meeting to a later date.

What documents you may need to provide

The trustee may request specific documentation to verify your filing. To avoid delays, submit the following by their respective deadlines:
  • Photo ID and Social Security proof: A government-issued photo identification card and proof of your Social Security number.
  • Federal tax returns: A copy of your most recent federal income tax return (or transcript). You must provide this to the trustee no later than seven days before the meeting.
  • Proof of income: Pay stubs or evidence of income received during the 60 days before filing. These are typically due within 14 days after your initial bankruptcy filing.
  • Financial records: Your state tax returns (if requested), bank statements or any additional records the trustee specifically requested.
After document verification, you can expect standard questions about your financial history.

Keep your bankruptcy case on track

The 341 meeting is an important step in the bankruptcy process. If you do not appear, your case may be dismissed. Preparing your records, reviewing your forms and following trustee instructions can help your case move forward with fewer issues.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Ira C. Yellin, LLC <![CDATA[Why Massachusetts courts include inheritance in divorce]]> https://www.yellinlaw.com/?p=52803 2026-05-11T11:49:52Z 2026-05-11T11:46:42Z Massachusetts law, the court has broad power. A judge can assign any part of one spouse's estate to the other to reach a fair outcome for both people.

The legal status of inherited assets in a divorce

State law differs from many other areas because it does not automatically label an inheritance as separate property. Judges review your entire financial life to decide how to split wealth. They put any resource with value into the pool of assets available for division. A judge considers several factors when handling these specific funds:
  • Length of the marriage: Courts lean toward an equal split of inherited wealth in long-term marriages
  • Economic contributions: How you supported the home can change how the court divides assets
  • Future needs: A judge may give more of the estate to a spouse with lower pay or higher bills
These details help a judge ensure the final order fits your specific life. How the court treats these funds often depends on how each spouse helped the marriage.

How commingling affects your financial outcome

When you move wealth into joint accounts or use it for shared costs, you commingle those assets. If you use an inheritance to pay off a mortgage or fund a family business, the court will likely include that asset in the division pool. This shift makes the money a core part of the marital partnership. Tracing these assets requires a close look at bank records and spending habits. A judge might see that you kept an inheritance separate, but they can still divide it under the state’s broad "all property" rule.

Protecting your financial future

The reach of state law means an inheritance is rarely off-limits when a marriage ends. Because the court values a fair result over legal titles, you must disclose all assets. An experienced attorney can help you find which assets the court might divide. They can also help you build a case for a fair share of the estate. Knowing your rights under this property system is the first step toward a stable life after divorce. Plan for these talks early to build a better strategy.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Ira C. Yellin, LLC <![CDATA[Should you get a temporary custody order during your divorce?]]> https://www.yellinlaw.com/?p=52800 2026-04-28T10:04:04Z 2026-04-28T10:04:04Z parenting arrangements, a temporary custody order can protect your relationship with your children during the divorce process.

What is a temporary custody order?

A temporary custody order sets child custody terms while a divorce is pending. The order addresses the children’s living arrangements and who makes important decisions about their care. These orders typically stay in place until the final divorce decree. However, courts may modify it if circumstances change significantly. For your family, this may help reduce conflict during an uncertain time.

How do Massachusetts courts determine temporary custody?

Massachusetts courts use the "best interests of the child" standard when deciding temporary custody arrangements. Under state law this may include the following factors:
  • The relationship between each parent and the child
  • Each parent's ability to provide a stable living environment
  • The child's current adjustment to home, school and community
  • History of domestic violence or substance abuse by either parent, which can limit custody in cases of proven abuse
  • The child's preference, if the child is of sufficient age and maturity to expresses a reasoned opinion
Courts also consider existing living arrangements. If the children have been living primarily with one parent, judges may not change that arrangement without compelling reasons.

When should you request a temporary custody order?

In certain situations, a temporary custody order may be necessary. You may consider requesting one if:
  • Your spouse is limiting your access to your children without good reason
  • You have concerns about your children's safety or well-being in your spouse's care
  • Your spouse has threatened to relocate with the children
  • You cannot reach an agreement about parenting time or decision-making
  • There is a history of domestic violence or substance abuse
Filing early may prevent your spouse from establishing a living arrangement that favors their preferred custody plan. Courts often consider current routines, so waiting too long may put you at a disadvantage.

Taking action to protect your parental rights

Temporary custody orders may help when parents cannot agree on a parenting schedule. If you face restrictions or have concerns about your children's welfare, consider discussing temporary custody with legal counsel. Acting promptly can help protect your relationship with your children during this difficult transition.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Ira C. Yellin, LLC <![CDATA[What are the pros and cons of a Chapter 7 bankruptcy?]]> https://www.yellinlaw.com/?p=52796 2026-04-10T15:07:54Z 2026-04-10T15:07:54Z Facing a mountain of debt can make you feel trapped and uncertain about your financial future. In Massachusetts, Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a common path for individuals who need a fresh start by liquidating assets to pay off creditors.  While this process can wipe the slate clean, it is a significant legal step that carries both immediate relief and long-term consequences. Understanding how this choice impacts your daily life is essential before you move forward.

The benefits of filing

Choosing to file for Chapter 7 can provide a sense of peace that you may not have felt in years. It can offer several protections that stop the cycle of debt collection immediately. Primary advantages include:
  • The automatic stay: This action prevents creditors from calling you, sending letters or pursuing lawsuits and wage garnishments.
  • Debt discharge: A discharge order eliminates most of your unsecured debts, such as credit card balances and medical bills.
  • Future income security: Any money you earn after you file for bankruptcy is yours to keep. It cannot be taken by the creditors involved in your case.
These benefits allow you to stop worrying about past-due notices and start focusing on building a new financial foundation.

The drawbacks of filing

While the relief is significant, Chapter 7 is not without its costs. You must weigh the benefits against the potential negative impacts on your property and credit.
  • Loss of non-exempt property: The court can sell your non-exempt assets to pay back your creditors. This might include second homes, expensive jewelry or valuable collections.
  • Credit score impact: Chapter 7 filing stays on your credit report for ten years, which can negatively impact your credit score.
  • Excluded debts: Not all debts go away after you file for bankruptcy. You will still be responsible for some costs, such as child support, alimony and recent tax debts.
The loss of certain assets and the mark on your credit history are serious factors that require careful thought.

Make an informed decision before filing for bankruptcy

Deciding to file for bankruptcy is a major life event that requires you to look at your entire financial picture. Chapter 7 is a powerful tool, but it is not the only option for dealing with debt. Before making a decision, it is wise to explore all your alternatives to ensure you are choosing the path that fits your specific needs. ]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Ira C. Yellin, LLC <![CDATA[3 ways to handle a jointly owned business when a marriage ends]]> https://www.yellinlaw.com/?p=52793 2026-04-01T16:08:24Z 2026-04-01T16:08:24Z Running a business with your spouse takes years of shared work, trust and sacrifice. When your marriage ends, protecting what you built together becomes one of the most pressing financial decisions you will face. Massachusetts courts divide marital assets equitably, not necessarily 50-50; your business is part of that equation. Knowing your options early gives you more control over what happens next.

One spouse buys the other out

A buyout allows one of you to take full ownership of the business. This option tends to offer the most stability for your daily business operations. You and your spouse ideally should agree on a fair business valuation. If you cannot reach agreement, the court will appoint a valuation professional and determine the value for you. You can structure the buyout as a lump sum payment, as installments or as an offset against other marital assets like home equity or a retirement account.

Agreeing to sell the business

If both of you agree to sell, you can divide the proceeds through your divorce settlement. This option can provide a clear financial separation for both parties. However, the court can also order a sale even if one of you objects when no other equitable division is feasible. You would need to carefully time any sale. Selling during active divorce proceedings may trigger tax consequences, affect your negotiating position or raise questions about whether you received fair market value. Massachusetts courts weigh each spouse's contributions to the business when dividing the proceeds. That includes financial contributions and nonfinancial ones such as managing daily operations.

Rewriting the partnership agreement

Continuing as co-owners after divorce is the most complex option, but it can work in the right situation. This path requires both of you to formalize a new operating or partnership agreement. That agreement should clearly define each person's role, responsibilities and decision-making authority. Massachusetts courts pay close attention to continued co-ownership arrangements and expect documented, professional structure. A well-drafted agreement protects both of you and establishes a clear framework for the business.

Protecting your business and your future

No single option works for every situation. Each path carries its own financial and legal considerations. The right choice often depends on your specific circumstances. Massachusetts law gives both parties room to negotiate an outcome that reflects each person's contributions and priorities. Getting informed guidance early in this process helps protect your financial interests and the business you have worked hard to build.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Ira C. Yellin, LLC <![CDATA[Which debts can Chapter 13 help you repay?]]> https://www.yellinlaw.com/?p=52791 2026-03-17T13:04:15Z 2026-03-23T13:01:28Z bankruptcy trustee, who distributes the funds to your creditors according to the terms of the repayment plan. While the plan can address many financial obligations, some debts receive priority or may remain after the case ends. Understanding these distinctions can help you decide whether Chapter 13 fits your circumstances.

Debts you may include in a Chapter 13 plan

Chapter 13 allows you to manage several debts at once. If you have fallen behind on payments, the plan can help you catch up while allowing you to retain important property such as your home or vehicle. Common debts included in a Chapter 13 plan include:
  • Past-due mortgage payments
  • Car loans or missed vehicle payments
  • Credit card balances
  • Medical bills
  • Personal loans without collateral
Unsecured debts such as credit cards and medical bills do not require full payment. The amount you pay depends on your income, assets and repayment terms approved by the court.

Debts that you must pay in full

Some debts receive priority under federal bankruptcy law. You repay them through the Chapter 13 plan, but the law requires full payment by the end of the plan period. Priority debts may include income tax obligations, child support and alimony. Because these obligations carry strong legal protection, they receive payment before other debts.

Debts that usually stay with you

In bankruptcy, “discharged” means the law eliminates the debt so you no longer have to repay it. Some obligations, however, typically remain even after completing the plan. These debts may include student loans, criminal fines and restitution. Debts tied to fraud or intentional misconduct may also remain your responsibility.

Is Chapter 13 right for you?

Understanding how Chapter 13 treats different debts can illustrate how the process may affect your finances. Reviewing your debts and income can help you decide whether Chapter 13 offers meaningful relief and what responsibilities you may still need to manage after the plan ends. We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Ira C. Yellin, LLC <![CDATA[Who is most financially affected by divorce?]]> https://www.yellinlaw.com/?p=52787 2026-03-05T11:57:48Z 2026-03-05T11:57:48Z Divorce changes your daily life, long-term plans, and for most people, financial stability. If you are facing the end of your marriage, you may be wondering who will suffer the most financially. Knowing the answer can help you set your expectations and plan your next move. When you understand who often faces the most losses in a divorce, you can take early steps by reviewing your assets, adjusting your budget and asking the right questions about support and property division.

Women often experience the most financial impact

A study by the National Institutes of Health titled Gender Differences in the Consequences of Divorce reports that women’s income often drops significantly after divorce, while men’s income tends to recover more quickly. Many women also experience a significant decline in their standard of living in the first years after separation.  Another data from the U.S. Government Accountability Office reflects a similar trend, showing that women often experience a significant drop in household income after divorce, with an average decline of about 41%. It is nearly double the decline that men experience.

Career breaks and child care responsibilities can affect income

If you quit your job to raise children, you may re-enter the workforce at lower pay. You might work reduced hours to manage parenting schedules. At the same time, you may shoulder most daily expenses such as housing, groceries and school expenses. On the other hand, men can also face serious financial strain, although not as much as women. If they pay child support or alimony, their monthly obligations can limit their ability to save, buy a home or invest. However, higher earnings and uninterrupted work schedules often allow men to rebuild assets faster.

Protecting your future starts with information

Divorce can feel overwhelming, but knowledge gives you power. Now is the time to ask questions. Property distribution, spousal and child support may shape every outcome. Additionally, state law plays a role, too.  In Massachusetts, you may file for divorce if you meet residency requirements, such as living in the state for at least a year or if the breakdown of the marriage happened while living together in the state. Because divorce laws differ by state, it is important to explore your state’s divorce resources and understand family law. The more informed you are, the more prepared you will be in protecting your financial security.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Ira C. Yellin, LLC <![CDATA[What happens after a job loss during Chapter 13 bankruptcy?]]> https://www.yellinlaw.com/?p=52784 2026-02-22T12:29:57Z 2026-02-22T12:29:57Z There are two possible solutions available Losing a job during bankruptcy can make continued compliance with a repayment plan prohibitively difficult. Thankfully, filers have two options for protecting themselves and continuing the bankruptcy process. In many cases, it is possible to modify a repayment plan. Submitting paperwork to the courts notifying the trustee of a material change in circumstances can lead to an adjustment of the repayment plan to make it sustainable, given the current income of the filer. In cases where a filer loses their job and cannot secure new employment for many months, they may be able to convert the case to a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. They may then be eligible for a more rapid discharge. Working with a Chapter 13 bankruptcy attorney can make it easier for filers to understand their rights and avoid common pitfalls during their bankruptcy cases. The right response to financial setbacks during a repayment plan can help people move forward with a bankruptcy even when their circumstances change.]]>