Divorce

Dividing the marital estate can be a stressful part of getting a divorce. If you are dealing with an ex who wants to argue over marital property and debt, it helps to know what your rights are when it comes to dividing up the marital estate. First, you have to decide what the marital estate […]

When Is Someone In Contempt?

  • By: Karpenski & Schmelkin
  • Divorce

Contempt of court in Massachusetts family law cases is civil in nature and occurs when an individual is found to have deliberately failed to obey a court order or judgment. If an individual is found to be guilty of contempt, they could face a penalty. However, it isn’t always appropriate for one party to claim […]

How does DCF affect your divorce?

  • By: Karpenski & Schmelkin
  • Divorce

How does DCF affect your divorce? Divorce can be an intense, stressful process, especially if there are children involved. In some situations, there may be allegations of abuse or neglect by a parent on a minor child or children. Though any allegations of this nature are serious, there must be actual evidence that the child […]

Bankruptcy and Your Divorce

  • By: Karpenski & Schmelkin
  • Divorce

Bankruptcy and Divorce It can be a stressful process when couples are divorcing even under the best of circumstances. When other factors are thrown into the process, such as one party filing or wanting to file bankruptcy, it can make things more complicated. Most often individuals consider filing for bankruptcy when they can no longer […]

In Massachusetts, couples can either file for an uncontested or a contested divorce. The facts of each case will depend on which filing is appropriate: Uncontested Divorce Whenever the parties can agree on all issues prior to either party filing a Complaint for Divorce, the parties may request (called a “petition”) that the Court accept […]

Dealing with Pets During Divorce

  • By: Karpenski & Schmelkin
  • Divorce

During a divorce, there are many issues that may arise. One issue that is becoming more present during a divorce is who retains the pet after the divorce is final. In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, pets are considered property subject to an equitable division. Understanding Pet “Visitation Rights” in Massachusetts If parties are fighting over […]

In Massachusetts divorce or child custody cases, a party may ask the Court to appoint a Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) to investigate, make recommendations and offer solutions that would be in the “best interests of a child(ren)” regarding custody, parenting plans, and relocation of the minor child(ren). The Guardian Ad Litem’s Investigation A Guardian Ad […]

Divorce can be hard on families with children, and one of the biggest issues that may arise is how to share parenting expenses. In general, child support covers the child’s food, clothing and shelter. However, the division of financial responsibilities can take a more difficult turn when extracurricular activities are considered, such as sports and […]

Divorce and Your Child’s Schooling

  • By: Karpenski & Schmelkin
  • Divorce

Many issues arise during a divorce. The most important issues involve your child or children.  Some of the most common issues include custody of the child, financial arrangements such as child support and alimony, and dividing property. One important decision that is often forgotten until the last minute involves your child’s education. Decisions on the […]

Understanding Postnuptial Agreements

  • By: Karpenski & Schmelkin
  • Divorce

Understanding Postnuptial Agreements Post-nuptial agreements are contracts entered into after marriage by couples to create a clear understanding of the management and control of their finances and assets to create a happier marriage. Spouses cannot, however, create a post-nuptial agreement as part of divorce planning or in the anticipation of divorce. Post-nuptial agreements are meant […]