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Category Archives: Property & Finances

Ask a Divorce Lawyer Series: Infidelity

Ask a Divorce Lawyer Series: Infidelity
Question: "What percentage of MA divorce settlements are altered due to infidelity, and can one party's infidelity affect alimony in a long term marriage?" Answer: Massachusetts is primarily a no-fault state. In other words, in general, the courts do not award punitive damages for adulterous behavior. If one party's conduct resulted in dissipation of assets…
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A Brief History of Alimony

A Brief History of Alimony
When it comes to divorce proceedings, alimony is rather high on the list of polarizing topics. Some people see the value of alimony, others think it’s unnecessary and outdated, and still others are indifferent. Nevertheless, alimony is grounded in historical necessity that makes its origin rather interesting. The etymology of the word ‘alimony’ comes from…
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It’s never too soon to start planning for your Prenuptial Agreement

It’s never too soon to start planning for your Prenuptial Agreement
In Massachusetts a prenuptial agreement defines the rights and responsibilities of spouses once they marry.  These newly defined rights and responsibilities are usually significantly different than the legal rights and responsibilities a spouse may have under divorce law in Massachusetts.  An enforced prenuptial agreement defines which assets will and will not be divided between spouses. …
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Alimony in Massachusetts: How Much and for How Long?

Alimony in Massachusetts: How Much and for How Long?
by: Marcia Mavrides, Esq. How long? Massachusetts alimony law is clear regarding how long support, which is known as general term alimony, will have to be paid by one spouse to the other.  This durational limitation for marriages under twenty years is based on the number of months you were been married:  from date of…
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