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Alimony Reform in Massachusetts

On behalf of posted in Family Law on Wednesday July 6, 2011

Lawmakers are working on legislation that Massachusetts divorce lawyers believe will make determining alimony / spousal support easier. The proposal, termed the Alimony Reform Act of 2011, could completely alter how alimony payments are determined in the Commonwealth. The new law sets forth three categories of maintenance payments and establishes guidelines for how long such payments should last. General term alimony would entail regular payments to an economically dependent former spouse. A distressed spouse would receive rehabilitative alimony if he or she is expected to eventually become financially independent. Finally, reimbursement alimony would be paid to a spouse in a short-term marriage, or to a spouse…

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Establishing Paternity in Massachusetts

On behalf of posted in Family Law on Friday January 14, 2011

Establishing paternity means recognizing someone as the legal father of a child. An official determination of paternity is beneficial for the child, mother and father, and it can be accomplished in a few different ways. Importance of Paternity Determinations Establishing paternity is important for both the parents and the child because it gives the parents specific legal rights and also provides several benefits for the child. Some of these benefits include: Giving the child a sense of identity Establishing mutual responsibility for the child's well-being Allowing the child to know more about his or her family health history Providing financial…

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Child Support Payment Does Not Affect Visitation Rights

On behalf of posted in Family Law on Thursday January 13, 2011

In most cases, child custody, visitation (also known as parenting time) and child support are established at the same time by a judge. Consequently, many parents think that child support is tied to visitation rights. However, child support payment does not affect parents' visitation rights. Massachusetts child custody guidelines state that children must be allowed to enjoy the society, love and companionship of both parents to the fullest extent possible. According to the child custody guidelines, judges determine child custody, visitation and support according to the following principles: Providing a standard of living the child would have enjoyed had the…

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Paying by the Hour for Your Divorce? It’ll Cost You

On behalf of posted in Family Law on Wednesday January 12, 2011

The decision to end a marriage is a big step that brings about many questions, especially if you have never been through a divorce. Finding someone who can answer those questions brings a sense of peace and comfort during an incredibly difficult time. The cost of legal representation may be the furthest thing from your mind. Before you make a decision about the attorney you hire, consider how you will be billed for any services that the divorce attorney performs on your behalf. When you first meet with an attorney about your divorce, discuss the firm's billing method. Will it…

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