Can Massachusetts enforce a custody order from another state?
Yes, in many cases. An order issued by another U.S. state may be recognized and enforced in Massachusetts once the applicable legal requirements have been satisfied.
Can Massachusetts recognize a divorce or custody order from another country?
Possibly. Whether a foreign country's judgment can be recognized or enforced depends on several factors, including the laws governing the specific type of order and the circumstances of the case.
Can Massachusetts modify an order issued somewhere else?
Sometimes. Whether Massachusetts has authority to modify an existing order depends on the type of order involved and whether the jurisdictional requirements have been met.
Do I need to register my order before the Massachusetts court can enforce it?
In many cases, yes. Registration is often required before an out-of-state or foreign order can be enforced or modified in Massachusetts.
Can alimony be modified in Massachusetts?
Yes. Depending on the circumstances and the terms of the divorce judgment, alimony may be modified when there has been a legally recognized change in circumstances.
Can alimony be reduced after retirement?
Possibly. Retirement may provide grounds for seeking a modification of alimony, depending on the facts of the case and the applicable provisions of Massachusetts law.
Does living with a new partner affect alimony?
In some circumstances, cohabitation may affect an existing alimony order. Whether a modification is appropriate depends on the facts of the case and the applicable law.
Do I have to go back to court to modify alimony?
Generally, yes. Existing alimony orders remain in effect unless the parties reach an agreement that is approved by the court or the court enters a new order following a Complaint for Modification. Having a court-approved modification ensures that any changes are legally enforceable and clearly [...]
What if my former spouse has stopped paying alimony?
If your former spouse is violating an existing alimony order, a Complaint for Contempt may be the appropriate legal remedy. I help clients determine whether enforcement or modification is the appropriate course of action based on their circumstances.
Can custody be modified in Massachusetts?
Yes. A custody order may be modified if there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances and the requested modification is in the child's best interests.
