A restraining order is generally a civil court order, but violating certain provisions of a Massachusetts restraining order can result in criminal charges. A person accused of a violation may be arrested and face a new criminal case even when the alleged contact was brief, no violence occurred, or the protected person initiated the communication.…
Child custody disputes can become particularly difficult when one parent believes the other parent is incapable of safely or responsibly caring for their child. A parent may describe the other as “unfit,” but under Massachusetts law, parental fitness involves much more than disagreements over parenting styles, household rules, relationships, or personal choices. Massachusetts courts generally…
Getting arrested is an overwhelming and frightening experience, whether it’s your first time or you’ve faced charges before. In Massachusetts, the legal system moves quickly—especially in the hours and days after an arrest. What you do next can have a lasting impact on your case, your record, and your future. Understanding your rights and taking…
One of the most common reasons individuals delay divorce is the fear of the unknown. Questions about children, finances, housing, and healthcare can feel overwhelming—especially when one spouse has been financially dependent on the other. Common concerns include: What will happen with the children and parenting time? How can a divorce be afforded if one…
After a divorce is finalized, many parents assume that the parenting schedule put in place will remain unchanged. However, life circumstances often evolve, and what once worked may no longer serve the best interests of the child. A common question among divorced parents is whether parenting time arrangements can be modified—and the answer is yes, under the…
Many spouses who agree on the terms of their separation ask whether hiring an attorney is really necessary. If everything is amicable, it may seem straightforward to file paperwork and move on. However, even in a cooperative case, divorce is still a legal process with long-term financial and parental consequences. This article answers common questions…
Divorce is difficult even when both spouses are willing to work toward a resolution. When one spouse refuses to cooperate, the process can feel overwhelming and frustrating. In Massachusetts, however, an uncooperative spouse cannot stop a divorce from moving forward. While noncooperation may affect the timeline and cost, the court has tools to keep the…