How Spousal Support Works In Massachusetts

In March 2012, the commonwealth of Massachusetts undertook a complete reworking of its alimony statutes. The old laws were predicated on a traditional model of marriage — one where a spouse, usually the mother, stayed home and raised children, while the other spouse worked outside the home and was the family’s sole financial support. As society has evolved, the legislature believed some changes to our alimony laws were needed, too.

At Richard C. Bardi & Associates LLC, our lawyers understand all of the applications of the new alimony laws. Our attorneys have decades of experience in trying high-conflict family law cases, and know how to negotiate on your behalf. We can help you understand the guidelines and explain how they will impact you and your family. Based in Boston, we serve throughout Massachusetts, and are always prepared to help.

Providing Professional Guidance On Alimony Matters

Many of the new laws provide guidance on how much and how long a person can receive alimony (which is often referred to as spousal support):

• If you have been married five years or less, alimony may not be awarded for more than 50 percent of the time married.
• If you have been married more than five years but less than 10, alimony may not be awarded for more than 60 percent of the time married.
• If you have been married more than 10 years but less than 15, alimony may not be awarded for more than 70 percent of the time married.
• If you have been married more than 15 years but less than 20, alimony may not be awarded for more than 80 percent of the time married.
• If you have been married more than 20 years, the court will use its discretion to make an alimony award.

In addition, the court can take into consideration cohabitation before the marriage and separation during the marriage to determine the practical length of marriage.

These legal paradigms, along with their relative newness, require an experienced, skilled attorney in order to maximize your financial gains and stabilize your financial future. Our firm can provide the necessary guidance and protect your interests in proceedings related to spousal support, asset division, business valuation and any other matter that might affect your financial independence.

Contact An Experienced And Knowledgeable Lawyer Today

In moving ahead, our attorneys want to ensure you have the necessary information and understand it clearly. This is the only way that you can easily anticipate and plan for your new future.

To learn more, contact us by calling 617-749-9979 or by reaching us online.