What is mediation and is it right for you?

Each year, thousands of couples get divorced. Many of these cases end up in court where a judge decides how assets will be divided and where the children will live. However, each year many couples also resolve divorce issues by agreement thereby avoiding trial and lowering their attorney fees. Divorce agreements or separation agreements reduce conflict and couples who are able to come to an agreement are more satisfied with…

Get the Facts About Parental Rights, Paternity Testing, and Child Support

As far as the Massachusetts courts are concerned, both mothers and fathers have legal rights and obligations when it comes to children. However, a child born to unmarried parents doesn’t automatically have a legal father. The mother is given sole legal and physical custody until paternity is established. For married couples, the husband is presumed…

How can I establish paternity if my child’s mother is married to someone else?

A father petitioning for paternity needs to have a full understanding of the legal process. Fathers who are unmarried in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts can establish paternity in two ways. The first route is a voluntary process that utilizes a form known as a Voluntary Acknowledgement of Parentage. This is a document signed by both…

Don’t Fall Victim to Hidden Assets During Divorce

When it comes to divorce in Massachusetts, everything related to finances must be fully disclosed. This includes every single asset, purchased together or otherwise, as well as all accumulated debts. Each spouse is instructed to report known findings through a financial (statement) affidavit. The financial statement is signed under the pains and penalties of perjury and is one…