How do I get a divorce in MA?

How do I get a divorce in MA?

Step 1: Find out if you can get divorced in Massachusetts. You can file for divorce in Massachusetts if: Step 2: Write a separation agreement. Step 3: Fill out your paperwork. Step 4: File your paperwork and fees. Step 5: Attend a hearing.

Do both parents have to take parenting classes?

Mandatory for all parents with child custody issues before the court are ordered to attend the Focus on the Children classes. This class teaches parents ways that they can act to avoid hurting their children during the divorce. Both parents must take this class within 60 days after the first meeting with the judge.

How long is a parenting course?

The most common parenting schedules are as follows: Four-hour classes. Parents are allowed to log in any time within twenty-four hours at their own convenience and take lessons for up to four hours. The course lasts up to a month, and tests can be retaken if need be.

What do judges look at when deciding custody?

Judges must decide custody based on “the best interests of the child.” The “best interests of the child” law requires courts to focus on the child’s needs and not the parent’s needs. The law requires courts to give custody to the parent who can meet the child’s needs best .

Do family courts Favour mothers?

The laws on custody and support are gender neutral. If mothers get custody more often, it is because they are more often the primary caregivers and the court will always favour the best interests of the child. In 51 percent of custody cases, both parents agreed — on their own — that mom become the custodial parent.

Who is the better parent?

The “better parent” standard is the burden of proof placed on a parent or person seeking sole custody of a child. When a parent is seeking sole physical custody of a child, that parent has a much higher burden of proof than they would if seeking joint physical custody.

Do judges read talking parents?

While the Court places no restrictions on how, when, or where the parties may communicate with each other, the Court does require both parties to clarify, verify, and document all important decisions regarding their child(ren) through the Talking Parents service.

Who is more likely to win a custody battle?

Without a doubt, courts here in Texas and across the country once favored keeping kids with their mothers. Even under questionable circumstances, family courts used to believe that children were better off with their mothers than with their fathers full time.

Do I have to tell my ex wife where I live?

Unless the court orders you to provide you physical address to your ex, you do not have to give it.