News And Thoughts On The Law In And Around Boston

The last three months of the year have begun, which means that many Massachusetts residents may be trying to determine what matters they need to wrap up before the end of the fiscal year. This endeavor took on more significance this year since new tax provisions take effect on Jan. 1, 2019. Couples awaiting the final order in their divorces are probably glad they had the chance to resolve any alimony questions before it was too late.

Divorces finalized next year that include alimony provisions may include lower payments than they would this year. This is because the paying former spouse will not have the right to deduct the amounts paid from his or her taxes, which could make it more difficult to afford higher payments. Many suspect that courts will begin making smaller awards since the resources of paying spouses could diminish.

While it is a good idea for Massachusetts parents to assure their kids that they are not responsible for the end of their parents' marriage, the kids still need more information and assurance than that. This is the prevailing advice, but it also tends to mean that children are told that the impending divorce has nothing to do with them, and everything to do with their parents. Sadly, the divorce does have a lot to do with the children since their lives will change in numerous ways. Parents can help their children successfully survive the divorce through the child custody plans they make.

Children will probably have plenty of questions for their parents. They want to know how their lives are going to change. Which parent will they live with? Will they have to move? Will they still have plenty of time with both parents?

Business disputes are nothing new. It would more than likely be nearly impossible to find any two people who always get along, whether here in Massachusetts or elsewhere. For this reason, contracts are an integral part of the business world. In addition to outlining the agreement with the parties, they also tend to keep the parties in check since they know what could happen if one of them fails to hold up his or her end of the bargain.

Contract disputes can occur even before they are signed. Due to the importance of the document, each party wants to make sure that he or she receives the best deal possible before proceeding. When the parties involved are responsible for building and repairing a state's roadways, it ultimately affects everyone involved, especially if the work halts due to a strike by workers or a lockout by contractors.

After being married for a number of years, one member of a couple may have become used to a standard of living while staying home with the kids, among other reasons. If the marriage ends, that Massachusetts resident may not be able to support him or herself without help. This is where alimony comes into play.

In order to determine whether alimony is appropriate, a Massachusetts court will consider numerous factors. One of the first things the court will look at is how long the couple was married. Then each party's age, educational level and financial conditions are assessed. If one party has physical, educational or emotional limitations, the court may consider awarding alimony.