Consulting Those on All Aspects of Divorce in MA

Fighting for the Rights of Families in Boston and Middlesex County, MA

A big aspect of family law is handling divorce cases. If you are going through the legal process, our attorney is here to help you get through yours as smoothly as possible. We are prepared to work on your behalf, offering personalized representation in and out of the courtroom. As a skilled trial lawyer, Attorney Halks understands the importance of keeping your best interests at the forefront of every action we take.

Schedule a free consultation! Call (781) 995-0107. We serve clients throughout Barstable, Norfolk, Wellesly, Middlesex, and Worcester Counties.

Types of Cases We Handlecouple getting divorced

At The Halks Firm, we have experience in:

  • High net worth cases: When a couple has high assets or own properties or business concerns, certain steps must be taken to ensure the division is fair and best interests are protected.
  • Proceedings involving children: Our firm can help you come to an agreement or advocate for your child's best interests in court, in matters involving custody, visitation, and support.
  • Contested divorce: In a contested divorce, spouses cannot agree on all issues pertaining to the divorce filing which results in a more complicated and extended filing and time in court.
  • Uncontested divorce: To have an uncontested divorce, you and your spouse must agree on all issues that a judge will review. Uncontested divorces may benefit from the collaborative approach of mediation.
  • Alimony: Also known as spousal support, our attorney can help you seek fair payments.
  • Modifications: We can help you modify the terms of your divorce after they have been settled when your circumstances have changed.
  • Contempt: If your ex is not upholding a parenting plan, support agreement, or marital property settlement which was made into an order by the court, we can help you through a contempt proceeding.
  • ​​​​​​Motions for temporary orders: We can set up temporary orders on your behalf. These orders are helpful as they dictate things such as a parenting plan or who remains in the marital home during the months or years it takes to finalize the divorce.
  • Restraining orders: In the face of domestic violence or sexual harassment that has led to a divorce, o that has occurred during the divorce proceedings, our attorney can help protect yourself and your children with a restraining order.

Grounds for Divorce in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, a couple can file for a “no-fault” divorce or a “fault” divorce.

A no-fault divorce is considered an “irretrievable breakdown of marriage”. There are two ways for this type of divorce to occur:

  • 1A Divorce – This is when both spouses agree to file for a no-fault divorce. It is also when the couple has agreed on the matters of divorce such as support, custody, property division, etc. This would be considered an uncontested no-fault divorce.
  • 1B Divorce – This is when one or both spouses agree there has been an “irretrievable breakdown” in their marriage. It differs from 1A though if the couple hasn’t come to an agreement on the various matters of divorce. This is considered a contested no-fault divorce.

Alternatively, divorce in Massachusetts can be filed based on the grounds of various faults. These include:

  • Adultery
  • Desertion
  • Gross and confirmed habits of intoxication
  • Cruel and abusive treatment
  • Not providing suitable support
  • Impotency
  • Prison sentence of 5+ years

To learn more about your specific situation don’t hesitate to contact our firm for legal counsel.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Divorce in MA?

Depending on the circumstances, divorce waiting times may vary. Also, the type of divorce, 1A or 1B, can have effects on the timeline. Usually, after a hearing is attended, the divorce is finalized 120 days after the judgement date.

Uncontested Divorce (1A) - From the date of the filing to the hearing, the entire process may take several weeks. From the hearing to final judgement, it may take an additional four months. This essentially means that the complete waiting period will last approximately seven to eight months.

Contested Divorce (1B) - Depending on the backlog of the court, the waiting period from the filing to the entry of a judgement should take no longer than 14 months.

Call The Halks Firm to Schedule a Free Consultation

If you do not understand your legal options or what the court is asking of you, our attorney in Newton, MA can review your divorce agreement, including complicated property division and tax issues. We are committed to using our knowledge and experience to ensure your best interests have been properly looked after and that you are in compliance with the terms of your divorce. No matter what divorce issues you are facing, no problem is too big our firm to handle.

If you are looking for professional, skilled, and compassionate legal assistance, we can be reached by calling (781) 995-0107. Contact The Halks Firm today.

Unbreakable Bonds Built with Previous Clients

Hear What They Have to Say
  • “When you want the BEST, call The Halks Firm!”

    Monique

  • “I am very thankful and cannot thank Nick enough for going to bat for me.”

    Cliff

  • “ Takes pride in his work and is concerned to provide the best possible representation for his client. ”

    Doug

  • “ I am extremely happy with my decision to stick with him!”

    Rachel

  • “Nick did an amazing job with my custody case. ”

    Zina G.

  • “Nicholas exceeded all my expectation, Including the settlement.”

    Pamela

  • “He has a great trial presence – professional and energetic.”

    Carolyn

  • “Extremely responsive and understanding, which is a breath of fresh air when dealing with a situation as stressful as a divorce.”

    Indhira

  • “I felt my concerns we’re listened to, treated like a person, and received the service I paid for.”

    John

  • “I absolutely recommend Nick to anyone searching for a highly experienced and skilled family lawyer with an impressive success record who cares about his clients.”

    Mark

  • “Thank you Nick for your support and encouragement through such a difficult time in my life. My appreciation is beyond words.”

    T.J.

  • “He doesn’t back down or make promises he can’t make come true.”

    Savanna

  • “His support and his ability to see my concerns as important to him made my experience beyond comfortable”

    Ashley

  • “Nick handled my case flawlessly and prepared me for a great victory”

    Tara

  • “I will always recommend him to family and friends. Nicholas Halks is a winner!”

    Linda