Can I move out of Massachusetts with my child?
Possibly. Depending on your custody arrangement and the circumstances of the proposed move, court approval may be required before relocating with your child.
Can I move within Massachusetts?
Sometimes. While many moves within Massachusetts do not require court approval, a move that significantly affects the other parent's parenting time or an existing custody arrangement may require court approval.
Can I move for a better job or to be closer to family?
Possibly. Parents often seek relocation because of employment opportunities, educational opportunities, remarriage, financial considerations, or the desire to be closer to extended family or other support systems. Whether a relocation will be permitted depends on the specific facts of the case and the applicable legal [...]
What factors does the court consider in a relocation case?
The court considers many factors, including the child's best interests, the reasons for the proposed move, educational and employment opportunities, the availability of family support, and the impact of the relocation on the child's relationship with each parent.
What if the other parent objects to the move?
If the parents cannot reach an agreement, the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court will determine whether the proposed relocation should be permitted after considering the applicable legal standards and the evidence presented.
Can relocation affect child support or parenting time?
Yes. A relocation often requires changes to parenting schedules and, depending on the circumstances, may also affect child support. I help clients evaluate all related issues so that every aspect of the family's situation is addressed.
Can parents agree to a relocation without going to court?
In many cases, parents can reach an agreement regarding relocation. However, if the agreement changes an existing court order, it should generally be submitted to the court for approval so that the modified agreement becomes legally enforceable.
Do all divorces go to trial?
No. Many cases resolve through negotiation or mediation. If settlement cannot be reached, I am prepared to represent clients throughout the litigation process.
Will I have to pay alimony?
Not every divorce involves alimony. Eligibility, amount, and duration depend upon several factors, including the length of the marriage, each party's income, and the applicable provisions of Massachusetts law.
How is property divided in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts divides marital property through equitable distribution, meaning the court seeks a fair—not necessarily equal—division after considering numerous statutory factors.
