Divorce and Family Law Appeals Articles
by Turco Legal | Dec 8, 2016 | Appeals, Child Support
The Massachusetts Uniform Child Support Guidelines determine the amount of child support in most cases. Massachusetts has well-established guidelines. They do not tolerate deviation from these guidelines, and the payor must justify any change. How much deviation... by Turco Legal | Nov 23, 2016 | Appeals, Divorce
It’s not uncommon for a hearing to occur and a judge to take a matter under advisement. That means the judge essentially wants to think about the matter before deciding what to do. Sometimes days or weeks pass before an order actually issues, but as we explain... 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 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 | Oct 31, 2016 | Appeals, Custody
Generally, both parents have the right to visit and spend time with their children. This right is well established. Absent misconduct or other pressing issues, the Courts will grant each parent visitation rights and order that they may spend time with their children.... by Turco Legal | Oct 21, 2016 | Alimony, Appeals, Child Support
The probate and family courts are very busy places. Each judge has about 1,000 cases. Sitting in a courtroom and observing the various cases—along with their arguments, emails, text messages, and emotional outcries—reveals the complexity of the situation. In these...