by Damian Turco | Sep 17, 2020 | Appeals, Child Support, Contempt
In a new case, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court addresses the important constitutional safeguards a defendant must receive in a child support contempt matter. Case Facts The parties in the case, Department of Revenue Child Support Enforcement v.... by Damian Turco | Jan 16, 2018 | Contempt, Divorce, Equitable Distribution
Suppose Jack filed for divorce, and Jill is left confused, unaware of what comes next in the divorce proceedings. Jill is served the divorce papers and realizes that there is an automatic restraining order as part of the summons and complaint. Frantically, she calls a... by Damian Turco | Nov 3, 2017 | Child Support, Contempt, Custody
As part of James and Jeri’s divorce, James is ordered to pay $153 per week in child support. For the past two months, James has not paid any support to Jeri. What could happen in this case? There can be several consequences for parents when they do not pay their child... by Damian Turco | Jun 24, 2017 | Appeals, Contempt, Divorce
How do civil contempt cases work? What is the standard of proof? In other words, what must the plaintiff prove in order to prevail in a contempt action? Example 1: Kyle is divorced and has primary custody of his two children. Kyle is concerned that his former spouse,... by Damian Turco | Mar 22, 2017 | Child Support, Contempt, Divorce
Under what circumstances do criminal charges apply to a person who willfully or negligently refuses to take care of an immediate family member, such as a spouse, child, or parent? Several Massachusetts statutes are applicable to this question. First, Massachusetts...