Lifestyle of the Parent as a Custody Factor

Consider the following hypotheticals involving parents, children, and the lifestyle of the parents:   1. A Massachusetts judge must decide whether a parent with a history of drug addiction should have custody over the parent’s two children.   2. One parent,...

Surrogacy Laws in Massachusetts

Having a child is a monumental moment in many families’ lives. Social media sites such as Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook provide many ideas on planning a baby shower or gender reveal, as well as lists of the “Top 10 Newborn Must-Haves.” Information inundates...

Grandparent Visitation Standard: New Case Law

Issues of grandparents’ rights to visitation with their grandchildren always hinge on the best interests of the child standard. That is, the Massachusetts Probate and Family Courts will order grandparent visitation only where it is in the best interests of the child...

Guardianship of a Minor

Under what circumstances is there an issue with becoming a guardian of a minor under Massachusetts family law? For example… Consider the following scenario: Ten-year old Rebecca and her seven-year old brother Leon live with their mother, Jodi. Rebecca and Leon...