Worcester Divorce Lawyers & Family Law Attorneys
Consulting with a Worcester Divorce Lawyer or Family Law Attorney
The best way to understand your rights under Massachusetts divorce and family law is through a confidential case assessment with an experienced attorney. While our website offers helpful general information, nothing beats a personalized evaluation. During your consultation, we’ll review your situation and provide expert insights on potential outcomes and the process ahead. Our managing partner, Damian Turco, or senior attorney, Erin Nielson—both seasoned professionals with over 15 years of experience—conduct initial consultations via phone or Zoom. If you’re ready to hire a Worcester divorce lawyer, start with a complimentary consultation.
Schedule yours today by calling (508) 986-9966 or booking online.
Family Law and Divorce Lawyer Testimonials
We truly value clients in Worcester County, particularly those who come prepared and informed before reaching out to us. Divorce and family law matters can be complex and emotionally challenging, but our role is to educate, advocate, and guide your case toward a fair and reasonable resolution. Achieving great results is just the starting point—our goal is to exceed expectations and deliver such exceptional outcomes that our clients can’t help but share their positive experiences.
Here’s what some of our clients have said about working with us:
“Legal expertise, professionalism, and excellent advocacy…”
I am very grateful to have received the expertise, support, and patience that Attorney Agyepong delivered to me. She responded to all my communications promptly, shared her expertise and insight with me transparently, and regularly sought my feedback on how I wanted to handle matters and what next step I felt most comfortable with taking. In the court room [Attorney Agyepong] was always prepared and up to date on my case even if our last consultation was a couple days or a couple of weeks (due to my sporadic work schedule) before. Her flexible schedule was a great asset, often accommodating my needs after hours.
I could tell that attorney, and the entire legal team, did their work with a standard/ expectation of excellence. In a time when I was going through such an emotional and uneasy process of a divorce, which involved custody of a child, I was most appreciative to have crossed paths with Attorney Agyepong and her associates. Everything in the divorce finalization resolved to an amicable and acceptable outcome which was only obtained and resolved because of the legal expertise, professionalism, and excellent advocacy skills of Attorney Agyepong. If circumstances ever require me to file for a modification, or for other legal services, I will definitely seek out Attorney Agyepong once more.
Akosua Agyepong
Senior Attorney II
“Very, very happy…”
Brian Waller
Senior Attorney II
I had the pleasure to have Brian Waller as my attorney in my recent divorce. He worked very diligently on my case and was always there when I needed him via telephone and or email. I have recommended him to numerous people who found themselves going through a divorce as I was very, very happy with him and the result he provided. Thank you again, Brian
I had the pleasure to have Brian Waller as my attorney in my recent divorce. He worked very diligently on my case and was always there when I needed him via telephone and or email. I have recommended him to numerous people who found themselves going through a divorce as I was very, very happy with him and the result he provided. Thank you again, Brian
Brian Waller
Senior Attorney II
“An amazing team of attorneys and staff…”
Turco Legal has an amazing teams of attorneys and staff, Nicoletta was amazing and I could not have survived this process without her and she was always available for my questions and never made me feel like any one question was too big or too small. A weight has been lifted from my shoulders, and I couldn’t recommend a better attorneys office!
Nicoletta Longo
Associate Attorney II
“Looking back on my divorce, it was the best decision I made…”
Erin Nielson
Senior Attorney II
My experience with Turco legal has been nothing but AMAZING! My divorce was a long exhausting process. From the time I had my consultation with attorney Damian, I knew it would be best to change attorneys and work with them. Attorney Damian is highly knowledgeable, professional, and courteous and he explained everything to me in a way that made so much sense! Then my case got assigned to attorney Erin Neilson. It’s hard for me to find the words to fully express how WONDERFUL she really is!
Attorney Nielson took over my case in August, even though the divorce trial was scheduled for October. In no time, she mastered the details of litigation that had been ongoing since 2020. Her attention to detail is unmatched. She quickly contacted the court and broadened the trial order, which was impressive. Throughout my case, she provided the perfect level of legal support. Her ability to handle my difficult ex-husband was exceptional—no other attorney could have managed it better. She exposed the truth effectively and ensured the judge saw the reality of my situation.
Looking back, it was the best decision I made mid divorce! If you are in a tough situation, and you need justice, this is the kind of attorney you need by your side!
My experience with Turco legal has been nothing but AMAZING! My divorce was a long exhausting process. From the time I had my consultation with attorney Damian, I knew it would be best to change attorneys and work with them. Attorney Damian is highly knowledgeable, professional, and courteous and he explained everything to me in a way that made so much sense! Then my case got assigned to attorney Erin Neilson. It’s hard for me to find the words to fully express how WONDERFUL she really is!
Attorney Nielson took over my case in August, even though the divorce trial was scheduled for October. In no time, she mastered the details of litigation that had been ongoing since 2020. Her attention to detail is unmatched. She quickly contacted the court and broadened the trial order, which was impressive. Throughout my case, she provided the perfect level of legal support. Her ability to handle my difficult ex-husband was exceptional—no other attorney could have managed it better. She exposed the truth effectively and ensured the judge saw the reality of my situation.
Looking back, it was the best decision I made mid divorce! If you are in a tough situation, and you need justice, this is the kind of attorney you need by your side!
Erin Nielson
Senior Attorney II
Recognized by Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, Clients, and Colleagues
Clients, colleagues, the legal community, philanthropic partners, the broader community, and online rating sites like Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers recognize Turco Legal and our staff year after year for our work.^
Our Areas of Expertise
Turco Legal’s Worcester divorce lawyers, as well as the rest of our family law family law attorney team across Massachusetts, are legal career-long divorce and family law practitioners. Each attorney possesses a unique depth of knowledge on specialized issues. Whether we leverage our expertise in complex financial cases, high net worth cases, or challenging custody and parenting matters, our team is well-prepared to deliver strong results.
Modification Representation
Complex Financial and High Net Worth Divorce
Cases involving significant financial complexity demand a higher level of expertise and more strategic advocacy. Various factors, such as unique assets or income structures, can create these complexities.
For instance, some cases involve atypical assets—like intellectual property, business interests, or trust benefits—that require specialized valuation methods. Valuation experts often use specific techniques for each type of asset, leading to disputes over key variables. Higher stakes increase the risk of the court accepting an inaccurate valuation, making precise advocacy essential.
Similarly, income-related complexities can arise in different forms. Understanding executive compensation packages, entrepreneurial income, trust distributions, and professional practices is critical. If attorneys lack familiarity with these areas, they may overlook crucial details. Another challenging scenario arises when one spouse voluntarily leaves a job or accepts a lower-paying role, leading to unemployment or underemployment. In such cases, attorneys must decide whether to attribute or impute income, especially when calculating child support or alimony.
Turco Legal regularly represents clients navigating these intricate financial and high-net-worth issues. Our team frequently works with financial experts, such as forensic accountants, vocational specialists, and business valuation professionals, to build strong cases and secure equitable resolutions. With experience in these complex matters, a skilled divorce attorney can offer a distinct advantage by representing your interests effectively.
Complex Child Custody and Parenting Issues
Child custody cases vary widely, often presenting a range of challenging issues. Parents may disagree on whether custody should be shared or if the child should primarily live with one parent. One parent might seek to relocate with the child, either out of state or to another part of the Commonwealth. In some instances, a parent may struggle with substance abuse, mental health challenges, or a personality disorder. Some cases involve allegations of parental alienation, neglect, or abuse. Our practice frequently encounters these complex issues, which require expertise and careful handling.
Child-related cases inherently raise the stakes, especially when parents disagree on crucial matters or face intricate parenting challenges like those described above. Skilled and experienced advocate can make a profound difference for both the parent and the child. An accomplished attorney can help craft a thoughtful, well-structured custody plan that aligns with the parent-client’s goals while addressing specific concerns. Additionally, they can effectively present the case to a judge, demonstrating why the proposed plan serves the child’s best interests.
In complex custody cases, we work closely with our clients to develop a strategic approach aimed at creating a safe, stable, and well-considered parenting plan centered on the child’s needs. For high-conflict cases, we often collaborate with parenting and mental health experts. We may petition the court for psychological evaluations, drug or alcohol testing, or the appointment of Guardians Ad Litem or parenting coordinators to prioritize the child’s welfare.
Achieving the Best Outcome in Your Family Law Case
When facing family law and divorce matters, you should have a trusted family law attorney by your side. We will guide and advocate for you with a focus on achieving the best possible outcome, even when the subject matter and legal process feel overwhelming.
At Turco Legal, we’ve successfully managed over a thousand divorce and family law cases, ranging from drafting uncontested separation agreements to litigating complex cases through trial. Our team has the training and experience to handle even the most challenging situations. While we approach every case with a spirit of collaboration, we are always prepared to advocate aggressively when necessary. Our belief is that thorough preparation is key to delivering exceptional results.
We build client relationships on clear communication and transparency. By understanding each client’s unique concerns and goals, we provide precise and informed legal counsel. By focusing on outcomes, we strive to achieve the best possible resolution in every case. At Turco Legal, results-oriented advocacy isn’t just a goal—it’s our standard.
Why Choose Turco LegalTurco Legal attorneys have successfully handled more than a thousand divorce and family law cases, bringing over 200 years of combined experience. We are highly skilled in every stage of litigation and adept at employing a variety of resolution strategies. We manage your case effectively and with a strategy more likely to secure the best possible legal outcome through out-of-court mediation, fair settlements, or assertive trial representation. Our team of seasoned divorce and family law attorneys specializes in a wide range of matters, including child support, alimony, custody and parenting time, complex financial issues, modifications, contempt actions, and appeals. We tailor personalized and thorough guidance to meet your unique needs using a client-focused approach. We prioritize your goals and concerns while responsibly managing legal costs to deliver both quality representation and value.
|
Complex Financial and High Net Worth Divorce
Cases involving significant financial complexity demand a higher level of expertise and more strategic advocacy. Various factors, such as unique assets or income structures, can create these complexities.
For instance, some cases involve atypical assets—like intellectual property, business interests, or trust benefits—that require specialized valuation methods. Valuation experts often use specific techniques for each type of asset, leading to disputes over key variables. Higher stakes increase the risk of the court accepting an inaccurate valuation, making precise advocacy essential.
Similarly, income-related complexities can arise in different forms. Understanding executive compensation packages, entrepreneurial income, trust distributions, and professional practices is critical. If attorneys lack familiarity with these areas, they may overlook crucial details. Another challenging scenario arises when one spouse voluntarily leaves a job or accepts a lower-paying role, leading to unemployment or underemployment. In such cases, attorneys must decide whether to attribute or impute income, especially when calculating child support or alimony.
Turco Legal firm regularly represents clients navigating these intricate financial and high-net-worth issues. Our team frequently works with financial experts, such as forensic accountants, vocational specialists, and business valuation professionals, to build strong cases and secure equitable resolutions. With experience in these complex matters, a skilled divorce attorney can offer a distinct advantage by representing your interests effectively.
Complex Child Custody and Parenting Issues
Child custody cases vary widely, often presenting a range of challenging issues. Parents may disagree on whether custody should be shared or if the child should primarily live with one parent. One parent might seek to relocate with the child, either out of state or to another part of the Commonwealth. In some instances, a parent may struggle with substance abuse, mental health challenges, or a personality disorder. Some cases involve allegations of parental alienation, neglect, or abuse. Our practice frequently encounters these complex issues, which require expertise and careful handling.
Child-related cases inherently raise the stakes, especially when parents disagree on crucial matters or face intricate parenting challenges like those described above. Skilled and experienced advocate can make a profound difference for both the parent and the child. An accomplished attorney can help craft a thoughtful, well-structured custody plan that aligns with the parent-client’s goals while addressing specific concerns. Additionally, they can effectively present the case to a judge, demonstrating why the proposed plan serves the child’s best interests.
In complex custody cases, we work closely with our clients to develop a strategic approach aimed at creating a safe, stable, and well-considered parenting plan centered on the child’s needs. For high-conflict cases, we often collaborate with parenting and mental health experts. We may petition the court for psychological evaluations, drug or alcohol testing, or the appointment of Guardians Ad Litem or parenting coordinators to prioritize the child’s welfare.
Achieving the Best Outcome in Your Family Law Case
When facing family law and divorce matters, you should have a trusted family law attorney by your side. We will guide and advocate for you with a focus on achieving the best possible outcome, even when the subject matter and legal process feel overwhelming.
At Turco Legal, we’ve successfully managed over a thousand divorce and family law cases, ranging from drafting uncontested separation agreements to litigating complex cases through trial. Our team has the training and experience to handle even the most challenging situations. While we approach every case with a spirit of collaboration, we are always prepared to advocate aggressively when necessary. We believe that thorough preparation is key to delivering exceptional results.
We build client relationships on clear communication and transparency. By understanding each client’s unique concerns and goals, we provide precise and informed legal counsel. By focusing on outcomes, we strive to achieve the best possible resolution in every case. At Turco Legal, results-oriented advocacy isn’t just a goal—it’s our standard.
Why Choose Turco LegalTurco Legal attorneys have successfully handled more than a thousand divorce and family law cases, bringing over 200 years of combined experience. We are highly skilled in every stage of litigation and adept at employing a variety of resolution strategies. We manage your case effectively and with a strategy more likely to secure the best possible legal outcome through out-of-court mediation, fair settlements, or assertive trial representation. Our team of seasoned divorce and family law attorneys specializes in a wide range of matters, including child support, alimony, custody and parenting time, complex financial issues, modifications, contempt actions, and appeals. We tailor personalized and thorough guidance to meet your unique needs using a client-focused approach. We prioritize your goals and concerns while responsibly managing legal costs to deliver both quality representation and value.
|
Our Worcester Office, Steps from the Worcester Probate and Family Court
Getting Divorced in Worcester, Massachusetts
State law defines divorce law through statutes, case law, administrative orders, court rules, procedural rules, and evidentiary rules. You must follow specific rules in the courtroom, including when and how to sit, stand, and speak. The court system and process can overwhelm you if you’re unfamiliar with them. Fortunately, there are many Worcester divorce lawyers, community programs, and free and reduced-fee resources, including our Justice for All program. Our website and family law blog are great resources to learn the basics.
Our blog frequently explains relevant case law in detail, including some novel issues as they arise. We aim to educate generally on how the law works so you can think through how it might apply to the facts of your case.
Although nothing substitutes for an attorney consultation, learning the basics can be helpful. Here is a higher-level education with links to more information on our website, but we encourage you to schedule a free attorney consultation with the office using the link below or by calling us at (508) 986-9966.
Physical Custody and Visitation: In Massachusetts, “physical custody” is the term we use to determines where and with whom the child will primarily reside. A related concept, “visitation” refers to when the parent with the lesser amount of parenting time, sometimes referred to as the noncustodial parent, is with the child. In some cases, parents may agree to a schedule without conflict, making physical custody an uncontested issue. In other cases, physical custody is hotly contested, with a parent alleging that the other presents a safety issue to the child due to substance abuse, mental health, or violent behavior. If your case is or will be filed in Worcester, we recommend consulting with a Worcester divorce lawyer who has the knowledge and experience to be an effective advocate in raising or defending against these serious allegations.
Legal Custody: In Massachusetts, legal custody is the right to make major decisions about the child’s life, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Courts commonly grant parents joint legal custody, allowing them to share decision-making rights, or sole legal custody to one parent. With that being said, the Commonwealth generally favors joint legal custody, promoting both parents’ active involvement in their child’s life. If you have any questions about child custody and divorce, please do not hesitate to contact our Worcester divorce lawyer for help.
Child Support: Parents in Massachusetts have a general responsibility to provide for their kids, including after a divorce. In Massachusetts, one parent provides child support payments to the other to help cover child-raising expenses. Courts calculate the presumptive amount using the Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines, which account for income, childcare costs, healthcare, and other factors. Parents typically continue meeting child support obligations until their child turns at least 18. When children continue their education through college or other post-high school education, parents typically continue paying child support until the child graduates or turns 23. Our Worcester divorce attorneys handle all types of child support cases.
Alimony: Following a divorce in Worcester, one spouse may be required to make certain payments to the other. Courts refer to these payments as alimony, spousal support, or spousal maintenance. The purpose is to help the receiving spouse maintain a lifestyle reasonably comparable to that enjoyed during the marriage. When determining alimony eligibility and amounts, Massachusetts law evaluates factors such as marriage length, the parties’ age and health, their contributions (economic and non-economic), and earning capacities.
Property Division: Property division is one of the most important—and often most sharply contested—aspects of a divorce. Massachusetts is an equitable distribution state. In Massachusetts, courts divide marital property equitably, aiming for fairness and reasonableness based on the circumstances. On the other hand, each spouse’s “separate property” will not be divided. If you have any questions or concerns about property division, our Worcester, MA divorce lawyers stand ready to provide assistance.
Military Divorce: A military divorce in Massachusetts can be especially complicated. Military divorces often involve issues with residency requirements, dividing military pensions, and handling other military benefits. For example, the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (USFSPA) may guide courts when dividing military pensions. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) could affect how the divorce proceedings follow their timeline. Our Worcester, MA divorce have the skills and experience needed to represent military members and military spouses.
Same-Sex Divorce: Massachusetts law treats same-sex divorce the same as other divorces, applying identical rules for alimony, child support, custody, and property division. Nonetheless, LGBTQ+ couples can sometimes face some unique challenges in the divorce process. Our Worcester same sex divorce attorneys have the knowledge and family law experience that you can trust.
Turco Legal is a boutique law firm committed to providing clients with top-tier individualized guidance and advocacy in the full range of divorce cases. We are proud to represent people in Massachusetts, including right here in Worcester. With the experience handling high-conflict contested divorce cases and amicable uncontested divorce cases, our team has the professional skills and proven legal expertise you can rely on—no matter where you find yourself in the family law process.
^ Best Lawyers in America awarded Turco Legal a tier III national rank in family law for 2025.