Firm News

A retainer is an advance payment made to a lawyer at the beginning of a case. It is not a flat fee for the entire legal matter (unless specifically stated in a written fee agreement). Instead, it is a deposit that the lawyer holds in a special trust account and uses...

Massachusetts law gives people strong civil remedies to protect themselves from harassment and domestic abuse. The two main options are the Harassment Prevention Order under Chapter 258E and the Abuse Prevention Order under Chapter 209A. Both can restrict contact or...

Every marriage must end. Some end by death and some end by divorce. No matter which way a marriage ends, a person who is suddenly single can be overwhelmed by the responsibilities of the new status. This list is intended to assist people in their new situation. Some...

Many people believe that if they refuse to accept legal papers—such as a summons, complaint, or subpoena—then they cannot be sued or forced to appear in court. That is a dangerous misconception. In Massachusetts, and in most jurisdictions, refusing to take the papers...

It is unlikely that Artificial Intelligence can definitely detect infidelity but it may find gather and evaluate information and reveal that this information suggests cheating. AI can analyze information in a way that people can’t. AI can draw conclusions from changes...

Parties can change their minds after filing for divorce in Massachusetts. If both you and your spouse agree to stop the proceedings, you'll need to file a joint motion to dismiss your divorce petition. The earlier in the process you make this decision, the simpler it...

Typically you do not need to return to the state or country where you got married to get a divorce. Divorce laws are usually based on residency requirements in the place where you file for divorce, not where the marriage occurred. In many cases, the site of marriage...

Divorce can impact Social Security benefits in several ways, and there are specific rules to determine eligibility: 1. Eligibility for Ex-Spouse Benefits: - If you were married for at least 10 years, you may qualify to receive benefits based on your ex-spouse's Social...

It is more expensive to pay for two households instead of one. In a divorce, people go from having both spouses living in one residence to each spouse having their own residence. There are other expenses that will no longer be shared. Child support or alimony may be...

Every marriage will terminate. Some terminate by death. Others terminate by divorce. A prenuptial agreement, often called a prenup, is a legal contract between two individuals created before they get married. Its main purpose is to establish how financial matters and...