When navigating through divorce in Massachusetts, alimony can provide a life raft for financial stability. But specific questions often come up, particularly during tax planning season: Is alimony taxable as income? Are the payments tax deductible for the payor? Well, it’s more complex than a yes or no.  Federal and state tax laws have changed, and the answer depends on when your divorce agreement was finalized or modified. We’ll try to dive into the details without getting caught in a net of legal or tax jargon. Alimony Tax Laws Alimony tax laws went through some notable changes at the f ..read more

The divorce process in Massachusetts has many components, and one question that often arises is: What exactly is alimony or spousal support in Massachusetts? Simply put, alimony is financial support that one spouse provides to the other during or after the divorce. Many states now refer to alimony as spousal support or spousal maintenance. In Massachusetts, alimony isn’t determined by a flat formula, and it is not granted automatically. The court makes determinations on a case by case basis, considering many factors like the length of the marriage, the age of each person, employment opportunit ..read more

As we bid farewell to another year, we want to take a moment to reflect on the milestones that made 2023 memorable. Most importantly, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our valued clients and colleagues who have played an integral role in our journey and our achievements. Koiles Pratt Family Law Group Ranked Among Best Law Firms for 2024 We’re delighted to share that Koiles Pratt Family Law Group was recognized by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Lawyers® as one of the Best Law Firms for 2024. This accolade reflects our firm’s commitment to providing top-quality service. We ow ..read more

When dealing with divorce or child custody in Massachusetts, domestic violence plays a critical role. The state takes allegations seriously, and the presence of such issues can greatly influence court decisions. It’s not just physical violence; emotional, psychological, and financial abuse are all taken into account. Recognizing and understanding these factors is essential when navigating these waters. How Domestic Violence Affects Child Custody Decisions Evaluating the Home Environment: In Massachusetts, when domestic violence allegations arise, courts will evaluate the home environment to e ..read more

Navigating the complexities of child custody, support, or alimony orders can be challenging. But what happens if circumstances change and you feel a need to modify an existing order in Massachusetts? Good news – modifications can be made, but there are specific criteria to meet. In Massachusetts, the well-being and best interests of the child are paramount when considering custody modifications. Courts prioritize creating a stable and nurturing environment for the child. A significant change in circumstances can act as a catalyst for reevaluating the current custody arrangement. This is not ju ..read more

When you’re faced with the complexities of divorce in Massachusetts, be it child custody, alimony, or divorce nuances for same-sex couples, a family lawyer becomes your guide. We not only understand the emotional toll but also the intricate legal aspects. Let us be your compass through these challenges. Post-Divorce Modifications Life is fluid and constantly evolving. Over time, circumstances change – incomes fluctuate, children grow, and individual needs shift. In Massachusetts, the legal system recognizes this dynamism and provides avenues for post-divorce modifications. This can encompass a ..read more

As a parent, your child’s well-being is your number one priority. So when facing a divorce, the question that often looms largest is, “What will happen to my kids?” This concern is one that can keep you up at night, stirring a mix of fear, confusion, and endless ‘what-ifs.’ Let’s put those fears to rest as we break down what you can expect when it comes to deciding who gets custody of your children. A divorce is always challenging, but when children are involved, the stakes are undeniably higher. One of the most pressing concerns for parents going through a divorce is determining child custody ..read more

After years of late-night studies, rigorous exams, and countless cups of coffee, one partner in a marriage earns a prestigious professional degree. It’s a moment of pride and a promise of future earnings. But when the tides turn and divorce looms, the value of that degree becomes a complex puzzle piece in the intricate game of asset division. In Salem, Massachusetts, this scenario is more common than you might think. Let’s dive into how our courts handle professional degrees in high asset divorces and the implications for both parties involved. Understanding the Role of Professional Degrees in ..read more

When you’re navigating a divorce in Massachusetts, understanding assets such as stock options and RSUs (Restricted Stock Units) is crucial. Stock options give an individual the right to buy shares of a company’s stock at a set price, while RSUs are company shares given to an employee which vest over time. Both assets can hold significant value, making their division in high asset divorces complex and sometimes contentious. Stock Options: A Valuable Marital Asset While stock options might not be tangible like a home or a car, they are no less significant in a divorce. If these options were gran ..read more

When you think about divorce, the typical assets that come to mind might be your home, vehicles, and personal savings. But what if you or your spouse has assets outside of Massachusetts – or even outside the United States? If you’re in this situation, understanding how international assets are approached in a Massachusetts divorce is crucial. First and foremost, Massachusetts follows the equitable distribution approach when dividing marital assets. This doesn’t necessarily mean an equal 50/50 split, but rather what’s considered “fair.” So, even if an asset is located internationally, if it’s d ..read more