by Turco Legal | Nov 21, 2016 | Custody
In some domestic relations cases, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem (GAL). The GAL helps investigate the parties’ relationship with the minor children and presents the findings to the court.The GAL might have the following roles: Conducting factual... by Turco Legal | Nov 18, 2016 | Appeals, Restraining Order
When would a judge make an abuse prevention order permanent? Can the judge extend it solely based on past abuse? The recent Massachusetts case of McIsaac v. Porter answered that question. [1] In that case, the plaintiff and defendant had dated for about six years and... by Turco Legal | Nov 16, 2016 | Equitable Distribution
As the saying goes, one’s home is one’s castle. During a divorce, one’s home is also often the most valuable piece of property that is up for division. But, in what circumstances are real estate experts, like an appraiser, necessary in the divorce process? The... by Turco Legal | Nov 14, 2016 | Alimony, Appeals, Custody, Divorce
Generally, the court will consider matters of custody by examining what is in the best interests of the child. The best interests of the child standard includes many factors. The court evaluates all relevant factors when making custody orders. It weighs each factor... by Turco Legal | Nov 11, 2016 | Custody
Holly and Hannah are going through a divorce. Hannah’s twelve-year-old son, Kyle, has known Holly since he was a toddler. Holly has never formally adopted Kyle, and her name isn’t on his birth certificate. However, she loves him as her own child. Holly has also...