Child Custody Archives - Briones Law Group - Marlborough Divorce Lawyers and Personal Injury

The Role of Child’s 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 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 in custody matters, the legal framework guiding these decisions, and examples of cases where a child’s input may significantly affect the outcome.

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 co-parenting plan addresses critical areas, from education and healthcare decisions to the logistics of everyday parenting. Massachusetts courts often require

Navigating Separation Without Marriage in Massachusetts: Property Division, Child Custody, and Financial Considerations

Separating from a long-term partner can be a complex and emotionally challenging process, especially when there is no formal marriage involved. In Massachusetts, couples who have lived together in a committed relationship but never married may face unique legal considerations when it comes to property division, child custody, and financial matters. At Briones Law Group, we specialize in family law and divorce matters, and we’re here to provide guidance and support for individuals navigating separation

What To Ask For In Your Divorce Settlement

A fair divorce settlement leaves both parties with what they need to start over. Before negotiations begin, you should discuss your options with your divorce attorney. To help guide your negotiations and avoid surprises, you should create a list of your nonnegotiables, the things you’re willing to be flexible on, and the things you’re willing to live without. Below is a list of topics to consider when determining what to ask for in your divorce

Massachusetts Child Relocation Laws After Divorce

Divorce, custody, and visitation are legally binding court rulings. While parents have the right to relocate, taking children is another matter. Under Massachusetts law, divorced parents are required to obtain permission from their child’s other parent or the court when relocating with their child. Relocating outside a specified location can impact custody and visitation rights. If you or your ex is planning a move that will alter the terms of any agreements made during a

Alimony, Child Support…and Plane Tickets? Navigating Long-Distance Child Custody Arrangements

Not Just a Drive Across Town Change can be hard on children, especially children of parents going through a divorce. The goal of the courts, as well as parents, is typically to see to the child’s best interest and try to provide as stable and consistent a lifestyle as possible. However, when parents live a significant distance from each other, or plan to move, this introduces new complications to a child custody situation. In this

Who Can Claim a Child as Dependent on Taxes After Divorce?

Divorce can be a trying life event, but add filing taxes into the mix, and most parents are running for the hills. Not to worry, by the end of this article, all of your divorce tax filing questions will be answered. Filing Status Let’s start with filing status. For couples going through the process of divorce, there are two filing options. When a divorce is pending but not finalized, the IRS still considers the couple

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 a job change requiring a move needs of aging children the remarriage of the party awarded the alimony Child Support

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 to provide for a child or children in the form of child support, which is paid to the custodial parent.

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 when seeking to modify a Massachusetts child support agreement. Changing Circumstances, Modifying Orders In Massachusetts, child support is governed either

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