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# Zuckerman Law Group, PC

Top Rated Divorce Lawyers in Newton MA

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## Posts

- [Blog](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/blog/)
- [When to Modify Your Divorce Agreement](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/when-to-modify-your-divorce-agreement/) - How long has it been since you terminated your marriage? Have your circumstances changed since then? While your divorce may last forever, your divorce agreement can change over time. There are many reasons to consider modifying your divorce agreement. Some examples include: a significant change in income that will impact child support or alimony payments
- [Understanding Child Support in Massachusetts](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/understanding-child-support-in-massachusetts/) - Divorce cases involving children often require a court decision regarding which parent should have physical and/or legal responsibility. Whether granted joint or sole custody, physical custody designates where the child will actually live. The parent who the child resides with most of the time is considered the custodial parent. The non-custodial parent may be required
- [Massachusetts Grandparents, Know Your Rights Regarding Visitation and Custody of Your Grandchildren](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/massachusetts-grandparents-know-your-rights-regarding-visitation-and-custody-of-your-grandchildren/) - When it comes to grandparents' rights, Massachusetts laws can be tricky to navigate. However, grandparents do have financial, visitation, and custody rights under certain circumstances. To utilize such rights, legal assistance might be necessary to help you take action. Grandparents today are frequently faced with decisions about what is best for their grandchildren under challenging
- [If my ex purchased our marital home before we were married, can I request the house as part of my divorce settlement?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/if-my-ex-purchased-our-marital-home-before-we-were-married-can-i-request-the-house-as-part-of-my-divorce-settlement/) - In an ideal situation, you’d work with your ex to divide up assets fairly. Unfortunately, that isn’t always possible. Many couples hire attorneys to negotiate divorce terms on their behalf. Some couples even go to court and ask a judge to divide the marital estate. So the simple answer is yes, you can request the
- [10 Questions To Help You Create Your Will](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/10-questions-to-help-you-create-your-will-2/) - Creating a will not at the top of your to-do-list? Maybe it should be! Creating an estate plan is one way to ensure your family is taken care of, and your wishes are carried out in the future. Having a will isn't just for the uber-rich or elderly. In fact, everyone should have a will
- [Modifying Child Custody Agreements: For Safety’s Sake](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/modifying-child-custody-agreements-for-safetys-sake/) - Final Judgement, Not Final Word In awarding custody, the goal of a family court, above all, is the safety and wellbeing of the child or children involved. One of these factors is consistency, so courts will be hesitant to change what is called a “final” custody order. While it is possible for later modifications to
- [10 Questions To Help You Create Your Will](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/10-questions-to-help-you-create-your-will/) - A Holistic Approach to Your Affairs For many people, especially those approaching middle- or retirement-age, know they should put together a plan for their estate, but feel overwhelmed by the details and options. They continue to put off estate planning for “another day” until, often, it is too late. Younger people also should consider their
- [Divorcing in Massachusetts: Initiating the Process](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/divorcing-in-massachusetts-initiating-the-process/) - The Basics When beginning the divorce process in Massachusetts, it is important to answer two key questions. First, is the divorce contested or uncontested? Second, is the divorce at-fault or no-fault? In answering these questions, couples can gain a better understanding of what awaits them in the legal system as they begin this difficult process.
- [Get the Facts About Parental Rights, Paternity Testing, and Child Support](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/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?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/how-can-i-establish-paternity-if-my-childs-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
- [Out of State Child Support Modification](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/out-of-state-child-support-modification/) - Child Support and Out-of-State Issues Whether one parent is living just over the Massachusetts border in New Hampshire but still commutes to Boston every day, or whether the one parent is living on the West Coast while the children live with the other on the South Shore, issues of state jurisdiction may come into play
- [5 Key Questions to Answer When Creating Your Will](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/5-key-questions-to-answer-when-creating-your-will/) - If you don’t want important decisions to be left up to the state when you’re gone, you need a will. If the idea of creating a will feels like you’re tempting fate, think of it as a road map you’re leaving your family, so they don’t have to stress over making the right decisions on
- [How to Land on Your Feet After Divorce](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/how-to-land-on-your-feet-after-divorce/) - Divorce takes a toll emotionally, physically, and mentally on everyone involved. It’s not uncommon for individuals going through a divorce to want to curl up in bed all day and abandon all responsibilities. As tempting as this sounds, it’s not practical. In fact, doing so can even make things worse. The first step to landing
- [An Update on Massachusetts Probate & Family Court Reopening Procedures and What It Means for You](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/an-update-on-massachusetts-probate-family-court-reopening-procedures-and-what-it-means-for-you/) - Slow Re-Open With COVID-19 still posing a serious risk to health and safety, the courts, like the rest of our society, continue to adapt their procedures to minimize the risk to court workers and private citizens. The Probate and Family Court is no exception and is adhering to the same general guidelines as the rest
- [Co-parenting in the Face of Coronavirus](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/co-parenting-in-the-face-of-coronavirus/) - Amid the spread of COVID-19, we are all facing unprecedented times. As this pandemic continues, regulations regarding safe practices change daily. One thing on the mind of parents sharing custody is whether or not their court order is enforceable. Rest assured, custody, visitation, and placement are in effect and continue to be enforceable during this
- [Is it legal to videotape my spouse behaving badly (verbal or physical abuse, infidelity, etc) as evidence in a divorce case?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/is-it-legal-to-videotape-my-spouse-behaving-badly-verbal-or-physical-abuse-infidelity-etc-as-evidence-in-a-divorce-case/) - As thoughts turn towards divorce, tempers can flare and people may behave in ways they normally would not be proud of, even in a relatively amicable situation. Of course, the bad behavior of a spouse—ranging from neglect of household duties to infidelity to abusive actions—may well have begun long before the divorce, and may well
- [Is Massachusetts a 50/50 state when it comes to the division of assets in a divorce?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/is-massachusetts-a-50-50-state-when-it-comes-to-the-division-of-assets-in-a-divorce/) - The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is not a 50/50 state. When a court is needed to rule on the allocation of assets, they are not necessarily divided equally between the two parties. While some states mandate a 50/50 split, Massachusetts is an equitable division state. Commonwealth laws dictate that the courts can decide on a fair
- [What is the difference between a fault and no-fault divorce?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/what-is-the-difference-between-a-fault-and-no-fault-divorce/) - In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the grounds for divorce depends on whether you decide on a no-fault or fault divorce. A no-fault divorce does not require parties to prove blame for the breakdown of the marriage. Either or both parties can file to begin the process for a no-fault divorce merely pleading that the marriage
- [Am I eligible to adopt in the state of Massachusetts as a single parent?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/am-i-eligible-to-adopt-in-the-state-of-massachusetts-as-a-single-parent/) - To be eligible to be an adoptive parent in the state of Massachusetts, the law states you must be at least 18 years old, and you or the child must be a resident of Massachusetts. In most cases, any married couple or single adult is eligible to adopt. If married, both spouses must be a
- [Staying Safe and Saying NO to Domestic Abuse During COVID-19](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/staying-safe-and-saying-no-to-domestic-abuse-during-covid-19/) - Strict stay-at-home orders implemented for safety have placed abuse victims directly in harm's way. Safety measures recommended to limit the spread of the coronavirus pandemic have led to a rise in domestic abuse. For many, this is not a surprise as domestic violence goes up whenever families spend more time together. With families in quarantine
- [Does Massachusetts divide property equally between the spouses during a divorce?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/does-massachusetts-divide-property-equally-between-the-spouses-during-a-divorce/) - Rather than divide marital property equally, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ family law code seeks to divide it equitably. Massachusetts defines “marital property” as any property—be it income, assets, real estate, or everyday items—that comes into possession of the couple or either of the spouses individually during the course of the marriage. This could include trade
- [I make my living as an artist. Does my spouse have a fifty percent share in rights to my works and the income they produce?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/i-make-my-living-as-an-artist-does-my-spouse-have-a-fifty-percent-share-in-rights-to-my-works-and-the-income-they-produce/) - Yes and no. Yes, in the sense that artistic works, along with patents, trade secrets, and many other “intangible” properties, constitute intellectual property. And intellectual property, in Massachusetts, is marital property. No, in that Massachusetts does not assume “equal” (fifty-fifty) distribution of property between partners at the dissolution of a marriage, but rather “equitable.” Intellectual
- [Wait--what do you mean I can't deduct alimony on my federal taxes?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/wait-what-do-you-mean-i-cant-deduct-alimony-on-my-federal-taxes/) - Alimony is a series of monetary payments to an ex-spouse that may be mandated as part of a divorce decree. Paying alimony can be an expensive and painful process—and it is about to get much more painful, thanks to changes to the federal tax code. At present, those paying alimony may deduct the payments on
- [Divorce Modification in Massachusetts](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/divorce-modification-in-massachusetts/) - Once a divorce is finalized, the documents are filed with the courts. However, life is unpredictable and circumstances can change over time. In Massachusetts, if an earlier court order or judgment no longer suits the parties because circumstances have changed in a significant way since the order or judgment was issued, the court can “modify”
- [What Makes a Parent “Unfit” for Child Custody in Massachusetts?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/what-makes-a-parent-unfit-for-child-custody-in-massachusetts/) - 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
- [Same-Sex Divorce in Massachusetts: What Couples Need to Know](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/same-sex-divorce-in-massachusetts-what-couples-need-to-know/) - Same-Sex Divorce in Massachusetts Massachusetts has long been recognized as a leader in marriage equality. Following the landmark Goodridge v. Department of Public Health decision, Massachusetts became the first state in the nation to permit same-sex couples to marry. The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court issued its decision in November 2003, and same-sex couples began legally
- [When Can Child Support Be Modified in Massachusetts?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/when-can-child-support-be-modified-in-massachusetts/) - Child support orders are designed to provide financial stability for children after a divorce, separation, or custody matter. However, life circumstances often change over time. A parent may lose a job, receive a promotion, experience changes in parenting time, or face new financial responsibilities. When these changes occur, the existing child support order may no
- [Why Do Many People Hesitate to File for Divorce in Massachusetts?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/why-do-many-people-hesitate-to-file-for-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - 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
- [Can Parenting Time Be Modified After Divorce in Massachusetts?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/can-parenting-time-be-modified-after-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - 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
- [Do I Need a Lawyer for an Uncontested Divorce in Massachusetts?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/do-i-need-a-lawyer-for-an-uncontested-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - 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
- [What Happens If My Spouse Won’t Cooperate in a Divorce?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/what-happens-if-my-spouse-wont-cooperate-in-a-divorce/) - 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
- [How Should Parenting Plans Handle the Holidays?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/how-should-parenting-plans-handle-the-holidays/) - The holiday season is often associated with joy, family traditions, and time together. For separated or divorced parents, however, holidays can also bring tension and uncertainty, especially when parenting plans are unclear or emotions run high. Children may feel caught in the middle, shuffling between households and trying to meet each parent’s expectations during what
- [Navigating Divorce for Same-Sex Couples in Massachusetts](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/navigating-divorce-for-same-sex-couples-in-massachusetts/) - When Massachusetts became the first state in the nation to recognize same-sex marriage in 2004, it opened the door for thousands of couples to gain the same legal protections as opposite-sex spouses. However, when those marriages end, same-sex divorcing couples often encounter unique questions about property rights, child custody, and financial support—especially when their relationships
- [What If My Name Is Not on the Deed in a Massachusetts Divorce?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/what-if-my-name-is-not-on-the-deed-in-a-massachusetts-divorce/) - Understanding Property Rights A common misconception in divorce is that if your name is not on the deed to the marital home, you have no rights to it. In Massachusetts, that is not the case. Property ownership during divorce is determined by state law, which treats the marital home as part of the marital estate,
- [Life After Divorce: When and How to Modify Custody, Support, or Alimony in Massachusetts](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/life-after-divorce-when-and-how-to-modify-custody-support-or-alimony-in-massachusetts/) - Divorce decrees and separation agreements are designed to reflect the realities of life at the time they are made. But as time passes, those circumstances may change significantly. Massachusetts law allows individuals to request modifications to child custody, child support, or alimony orders when a substantial change occurs. Common Reasons for Seeking a Modification While
- [Navigating Divorce After Decades: A Guide for Empty Nesters in Massachusetts](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/navigating-divorce-after-decades-a-guide-for-empty-nesters-in-massachusetts/) - For couples who have shared a life together for 20, 30, or even 40 years, the decision to divorce can be both emotionally and financially complex. Often referred to as “gray divorce” or “empty nester divorce,” these separations frequently occur after children have grown and left home, revealing divergent paths and interests between spouses. In
- [Child’s Preferences in Massachusetts Child Custody Decisions](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/childs-preferences-in-massachusetts-child-custody-decisions/) - When determining custody arrangements, Massachusetts courts prioritize the best interests of the child. A child’s preferences can play a role in these child custody decisions, but the extent of their influence depends on various factors, including the child’s age, maturity, and the overall circumstances of the case. We discuss how courts weigh a child’s preferences
- [How Domestic Violence Affects Child Custody and Parenting Time in Massachusetts](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/how-domestic-violence-affects-child-custody-and-parenting-time-in-massachusetts/) - Domestic violence has a profound impact on families, particularly when custody and parenting time decisions are involved. In Massachusetts, courts prioritize the safety and well-being of children when determining custody arrangements. When allegations of domestic violence arise, judges take them seriously, as the presence of abuse can significantly affect the outcome of child custody cases.
- [Creating a Successful Co-Parenting Plan in Massachusetts Divorce Cases](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/creating-a-successful-co-parenting-plan-in-massachusetts-divorce-cases/) - A clear, well-defined co-parenting plan can be essential in supporting a child’s well-being post-divorce, reducing potential conflicts between parents. In Massachusetts, a thoughtfully crafted plan not only provides structure and consistency for the child but also helps prevent misunderstandings that might otherwise disrupt a healthy family dynamic. Components of an Effective Co-Parenting Plan An effective
- [Enforcing Child Support in Massachusetts: A Comprehensive Guide](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/enforcing-child-support-in-massachusetts-a-comprehensive-guide/) - In Massachusetts, child support is a legal obligation designed to ensure that children receive financial support from both parents, regardless of their living arrangements. However, when one parent fails to fulfill their obligation, it can put significant strain on the custodial parent and jeopardize the child’s well-being. Fortunately, Massachusetts offers several legal mechanisms to enforce
- [What Are Temporary Orders in Massachusetts Divorce Cases?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/what-are-temporary-orders-in-massachusetts-divorce-cases/) - Temporary orders serve as interim rules that both parties in a divorce must follow until the final orders are issued. These orders are crucial because they help maintain stability and order during the tumultuous period of divorce proceedings. They cover a range of issues, including but not limited to child custody and child relocation, child
- [What You Need to Know About the Residency Requirements for Filing for Divorce in Massachusetts](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-residency-requirements-for-filing-for-divorce-in-massachusetts-2/) - Filing for divorce can be a challenging and emotionally draining process. It is essential to understand the legal requirements for filing for divorce in Massachusetts. One of the critical requirements for filing for divorce is meeting the residency requirements. Here is what you need to know about the residency requirements for filing for divorce in
- [Massachusetts SJC Changes Alimony and Child Support Calculations](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/massachusetts-sjc-changes-alimony-and-child-support-calculations/) - The Supreme Judicial Court's recent decision in the case of Cavanaugh v. Cavanaugh has had a major impact on how alimony and child support are calculated in Massachusetts family court cases. The court's decision, which was issued in June 2022, has revised the way in which income is considered when determining support payments, and has
- [Prenuptial Agreements in Massachusetts: Protecting Your Assets and Future](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/prenuptial-agreements-in-massachusetts-protecting-your-assets-and-future/) - Getting married is a joyous occasion, but it's also a significant life event that brings about a multitude of changes, including the mingling of assets and financial responsibilities. While no one wants to think about the possibility of divorce when planning a wedding, it's essential to consider the importance of protecting your assets and financial
- [Division of Marital Assets in Massachusetts: Protecting Your Financial Interests](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/division-of-marital-assets-in-massachusetts-protecting-your-financial-interests/) - One of the most critical aspects of divorce proceedings is the division of marital assets. In this article, we provide helpful and informative content on how Massachusetts law handles the division of marital assets and how you can protect your financial interests during this process. Understanding Marital Assets Before we delve into the division process,
- [Child Custody Disputes: Factors Considered by Massachusetts Courts](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/child-custody-disputes-factors-considered-by-massachusetts-courts/) - Child custody disputes can be highly emotional and challenging for families going through a divorce or separation. In Massachusetts, when determining child custody arrangements, the courts prioritize the best interests of the child. Understanding the factors that Massachusetts courts consider in child custody cases can provide valuable insight and help parents navigate the process more
- [Filing for Divorce in Massachusetts: What You Need to Know](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/filing-for-divorce-in-massachusetts-what-you-need-to-know/) - Divorce can be a difficult and emotional process, but with the right guidance from an experienced attorney and knowledge of the divorce process, it can be smooth and efficient. Here is a brief overview of the divorce process in Massachusetts. Overview for Filing for Divorce in Massachusetts: Residency Requirements: In Massachusetts, either spouse must have
- [Post-Nuptial Agreement – Under What Circumstances would someone consider a post-martial agreement?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/post-nuptial-agreement-under-what-circumstances-would-someone-consider-a-post-martial-agreement/) - A post-nuptial agreement, also known as a post-marital agreement, is a legal contract that is entered into after a couple is married. These agreements can address a wide range of issues, including property division, spousal support, and debt allocation in the event of a divorce or separation. While prenuptial agreements, which are entered into before
- [Same-Sex Divorce in Massachusetts: Rights and Considerations](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/same-sex-divorce-in-massachusetts-rights-and-considerations/) - Since the legalization of same-sex marriage in Massachusetts in 2004, we have witnessed an evolving legal landscape. Same-sex couples face unique challenges during divorce proceedings, and understanding your rights and the relevant factors is crucial. Same-Sex Divorce Rights in Massachusetts When it comes to same-sex divorce in Massachusetts, the legal rights and protections are the
- [Estate Tax Planning: Minimizing the Tax Burden](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/estate-tax-planning-minimizing-the-tax-burden/) - Estate tax planning plays a crucial role in safeguarding your assets and minimizing the tax burden that your heirs might face. Understanding the essentials of estate tax planning in Massachusetts can help reduce the impact of estate taxes. Understanding Estate Taxes in Massachusetts Estate taxes, often referred to as "death taxes," are levied on the
- [Crypto-Currency In A Divorce Settlement](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/crypto-currency-in-a-divorce-settlement/) - Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, have gained significant mainstream attention in recent years due to their potential as investment opportunities. While the use of cryptocurrencies in divorce settlements is not yet a common occurrence, it is possible that they may be treated like any other asset in a divorce and subject to division between
- [Navigating Divorce in Long-Term Marriages: Financial and Emotional Considerations](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/navigating-divorce-in-long-term-marriages-financial-and-emotional-considerations/) - Divorce is a complex and emotional process, and when it involves long-term marriages, the stakes can be even higher. As experienced Massachusetts family law lawyers, we understand the unique challenges that come with dissolving a marriage that has lasted for many years. Getting the proper guidance on both the financial and emotional aspects of navigating
- [Enforcing Child Support Orders: Legal Remedies in Massachusetts](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/enforcing-child-support-orders-legal-remedies-in-massachusetts/) - In the realm of Massachusetts family law, ensuring the financial well-being of children and enforcing child support orders to guarantee that children receive the financial support they deserve is always a priority in Massachusetts courts. Here we explore the legal remedies available in Massachusetts for enforcing child support orders and offer insight into the processes
- [Parenting Plans in Massachusetts: Creating a Comprehensive Agreement](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/parenting-plans-in-massachusetts-creating-a-comprehensive-agreement/) - Crafting a parenting plan is a critical aspect of any divorce or separation involving children in Massachusetts. As experienced family law attorneys in the state, we recognize the importance of creating a comprehensive parenting plan that prioritizes the best interests of the children while addressing the unique needs of each family. In this article, we'll
- [What to Expect When Considering Divorce in Massachusetts](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/what-to-expect-when-considering-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - If you are considering divorce in Massachusetts, embarking on the journey can be overwhelming, fraught with uncertainty and emotional complexity. Understanding what to expect and how to navigate the process is crucial for individuals considering or facing divorce in Massachusetts. We offer insight into filing for divorce in Massachusetts, addressing common questions and concerns regarding
- [What You Need to Know About the Residency Requirements for Filing for Divorce in Massachusetts](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-residency-requirements-for-filing-for-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - Filing for divorce can be a challenging and emotionally draining process. It is essential to understand the legal requirements for filing for divorce in Massachusetts. One of the critical requirements for filing for divorce is meeting the residency requirements. Here is what you need to know about the residency requirements for filing for divorce in
- [Sharing Custody During The Holidays](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/sharing-custody-during-the-holidays/) - The holidays tend to be a time of increased stress for many. However, during a divorce, the pressure of the holidays can take on a whole new meaning. It’s no longer about what you’ll be cooking or who you need to buy gifts for but if and when you’ll get to see the kids. While
- [Planning For Divorce - Steps to Take When Considering Divorce in Massachusetts](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/planning-for-divorce-steps-to-take-when-considering-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - It comes as no surprise that many individuals contemplating divorce struggle with the final decision. Some even contemplate divorce for years before ever speaking with an attorney. When considering divorce, there are several steps you can take to help lessen the burden of such a difficult decision. #1 Protect Your Children Every parent wants what
- [The Types of Alimony and The Mistakes to Avoid During Alimony Negotiations](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/the-types-of-alimony-and-the-mistakes-to-avoid-during-alimony-negotiations/) - Not all divorce cases result in court-ordered spousal support, also known as alimony. If you believe alimony will come up during your divorce, there are a number of things to bear in mind. Individuals who are divorcing or are divorced can request and receive spousal support payments. Alimony is paid by the spouse with higher
- [Can recreational marijuana be used against me in a child custody case?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/can-recreational-marijuana-be-used-against-me-in-a-child-custody-case/) - The legalization of marijuana in Massachusetts has left some questions regarding parental rights in child custody cases. Like alcohol, marijuana can be used by adults 21 and older without legal repercussions for safe use on private property. According to subsection (4)(d) of Massachusetts General Laws, unless the child is placed in unreasonable danger, parental rights
- [Preventing and Responding to Parental Abduction in a Custody Dispute Situation](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/preventing-and-responding-to-parental-abduction-in-a-custody-dispute-situation/) - For most parents, their worst nightmare is to not know where their child is or to know that their child has been kidnapped. Consequently, we teach our children about ‘stranger danger,’ monitor their Internet activities, and take care to know where they are going and who they are supposed to be with. While these safety-conscious
- [Petition to Partition For Unmarried Couples – When One Does Not Want To Sell The Home](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/petition-to-partition-for-unmarried-couples-when-one-does-not-want-to-sell-the-home/) - Under Massachusetts law, no one can be forced to own property against their will. It’s not uncommon for unmarried couples to purchase a home together. However, when couples decide to break up and only one party wants to sell the property, legal actions can be taken. When one party refuses to sell, the party wanting to opt-out
- [Dividing Qualified Retirement Plans in the Aftermath of Divorce](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/dividing-qualified-retirement-plans-in-the-aftermath-of-divorce/) - Splitting assets during a divorce can be an arduous task. To complicate things, the division of certain retirement savings accounts requires an extra step. DRO vs. QDRO Divorce proceedings often conclude with a domestic relations order (DRO) to lay out the division of retirement assets. However, assets from a qualified retirement plan, such as a
- [Can my 14-year-old decide to live with my ex?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/can-my-14-year-old-decide-to-live-with-my-ex/) - As a divorcing parent battling over custody, there is always the fear that your child will decide they would rather live with the other parent. Even once custody has been determined, parents worry as children get older, they will want to move in with the other parent. Rest assured that minor children can’t make legal
- [Tracking Child Support Payments](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/tracking-child-support-payments/) - Under Massachusetts law, both parents have a duty to support their child. Typically, following a separation or divorce, only one parent is considered the custodial parent. This is the parent who lives with and has primary care of the child. The support provided by the custodial parent is offered in the time and care given
- [Living Without a Healthcare Proxy: A Risk to Avoid](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/living-without-a-healthcare-proxy-a-risk-to-avoid/) - Your Life, Your Way Healthcare decisions are among the most personal, and most consequential, any of us can make. For many of us, there may come a time when old age, illness, or injury will prevent us from voicing our wishes and concerns about what we prefer for our bodies, or even how we prefer
- [Can I Change My Original Divorce Agreement?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/can-i-change-my-original-divorce-agreement/) - Yes! Not only can you modify your divorce agreement, it is best to change it as your circumstances change. Divorce agreement modifications can address changes to child support, alimony, and custody arrangements. Either party can request a modification to reduce or increase support payments or to change parenting plan specifications. The status of your case,
- [What to do when your ex refuses to comply with your parenting schedule?](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/what-to-do-when-your-ex-refuses-to-comply-with-your-parenting-schedule/) - Once you’ve completed the process of going through a divorce, settling on child support, and agreeing to a parenting schedule, you’d think you can finally move forward and start your new life. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. When you're facing the frustrating reality that your ex simply won’t comply with your legally binding agreements,

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- [Social Media and Divorce](https://www.lisazuckermanlaw.com/family-law-overview/social-media-and-divorce/) - Social Media and Divorce are a common occurence. Attorney Zuckerman is an accomplished divorce attorney who is experienced with the impact of social media.
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