It is important for married couples to understand the signs and situations that often lead to divorce. This awareness could help people take actions to stop destructive behaviors. The causes of divorce range from common ones such as infidelity to a few surprising...
Year: 2020
Is mediation mandatory in Massachusetts?
Before you initiate a divorce in Massachusetts, it is important that you familiarize yourself with the state’s rules and options for the process. Doing so could save you significant time and headache in the coming months. In many states, mediation is mandatory first...
Separation vs. marital property: How to spot the difference
Property division is often a heated topic in a Massachusetts divorce. It involves separating all property and assets that you accumulated throughout your marriage. However, not all property is marital and some items may stay with you even after the divorce is...
Clearing up common misconceptions about prenuptial agreements
Prenuptial agreements are often utilized to guard pre-marriage assets in case of divorce. They are also used to outline the handling of matters like student debt, incapacity and death. This type of legal document is often associated with those possessing great...
Fighting to keep your full 401(k) in your divorce
Past posts on this blog touched upon the fact that your divorce can have a dramatic impact on your retirement plan. As many of our clients here at the Law Offices of Sheara F. Friend can attest to, that impact goes beyond simply who you will spend your retirement...
How can you tell your child about your divorce?
Massachusetts parents like you often worry about how your child will handle the upcoming divorce. Unfortunately, this can lead to hesitation that might potentially make things even harder on your child. When it comes to telling your child about divorce, you may need...
Does your child support order end when your child turns 18?
Contrary to some states, child support in Massachusetts does not automatically end when your child turns 18. Massachusetts law provides that a parent may need to pay child support up until age 23 if the child remains dependent on the recipient, and a court may even...
3 signs your spouse may be hiding assets
If you have not worked during your marriage, you may have some concern about supporting yourself financially after your divorce. Fortunately, in addition to receiving an equitable share of the marital estate, you may be eligible for either short- or long-term spousal...
How can I make mediation easier?
Choosing divorce mediation can help you to save time and money, but it also requires a different approach than if you were going through litigation. You will still need to prepare for entering mediation, but you will go into it with an attitude that focuses on...
How long does alimony last in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts weighs a number of factors when deciding whether to award you alimony in a divorce case. Your age, your level of education and whether you made sacrifices so your spouse could succeed are often among them. If the state does decide to award you alimony,...