Does it Matter Who Files for Divorce First in Massachusetts?

Find out if filing first matters when getting divorced in Massachusetts and learn about other important aspects related with getting divorced.

Does it Matter Who Files for Divorce First in Massachusetts?

Filing Divorce First doesn't make a difference in Massachusetts. The first person to file the application will choose the grounds for divorce or if he files for a no-fault divorce. Judges in Massachusetts Probate and Family Courts don't care who files first and don't even care why you're filing for divorce. Anyone who wants to divorce in Massachusetts has the right to obtain one regardless of the reason why.

For more information about the divorce process in Massachusetts, visit the Divorce Resource Center.In Massachusetts, filing first shouldn't make a difference to the outcome of a divorce case. A female judge will take into account all the facts and circumstances in order to reach her decision on various issues. The mere fact that the “petitioner” (the person applying first) is able to speak first during the proceedings is not likely to prejudice the conclusions and judgments of an experienced judge. If you suspect that your spouse will try to hide assets during the divorce, you must first file for divorce and make sure you work with a divorce lawyer who is experienced enough to handle such manipulative movements on the part of your spouse.

Sometimes, a spouse may be blind because of their partner's application for divorce. However, more often, both spouses share the feeling that the relationship is broken and cannot be fixed. When it comes to that, does it matter who introduces it first? According to some financial and legal divorce consultants, it does. In Massachusetts, most married couples choose to file for divorce due to irretrievable breakdown of marriage. These reasons are popular because few couples want to disclose to the court the personal, unpleasant and often unpleasant matters of their marriage.

Courts must process many cases and guilt is not an important aspect of getting divorced in the state of Massachusetts. However, in some very rare cases, there may be a reason for a ground fault. One such situation would be the active participation of children. Another reason for failure that is frequently used is cruel and abusive treatment. This usually happens when there have been incidents of extreme violence or abuse, or some other reason that would be considered cruel and abusive to the spouse. After filing your papers, your spouse has 30 days (if your spouse lives in Massachusetts), 60 days (if your spouse lives outside Massachusetts, but in the United States), or 90 days (if your spouse lives outside the United States) to respond to your request for divorce (known as a complaint).

You can change your name at any time through a separate court proceeding, even before a final divorce order. The biggest advantage you'll get by filing the divorce petition first is that you can file for a standing order from the court. In addition, the fact that the spouses live in different counties in Massachusetts should not affect where the divorce case is heard (and therefore will not benefit the petitioner). You can get divorced in Massachusetts in a number of possible ways, but there are some basic things that are pretty much the same no matter what type of divorce you choose. The minimum amount of time for a divorce to be finalized is 90 days because that is the length of the legal waiting period.

While it is possible to automate the online divorce process in Massachusetts to some extent, the truth of the matter is that there is no online divorce in the state. Under Massachusetts law, you have the right to represent yourself in all legal cases, including divorce. An annulment is available in Massachusetts and, in some cases, can be obtained under the name of a divorce. For example, you cannot have lived in Massachusetts for six months before moving to Nebraska for another six months and then returned to Virginia to file for divorce. Since this state allows divorce due to “irreconcilable differences”, all your spouse needs to prove is that they can't live with you or don't love you anymore. Divorce mediation is a process during which a couple asks a neutral mediator to help them reach an agreement on things like spousal support, child custody, property, and a parenting plan and schedule.

In a fault divorce, the person filing for divorce (the plaintiff) must prove that the defendant has committed one or more acts that, by law, allow the divorce to proceed. Otherwise, you must file a complaint of amendment and convince the court that there has been a substantial change in circumstances since the publication of the original judgment. If you or a loved one is facing a divorce, let attorney Cynthia Hanley guide you through the divorce process. Under every ground for absolute divorce, there is a provision for when you can file the lawsuit against your spouse in court.

Rosalyn Mcinerny
Rosalyn Mcinerny

Rosalyn McInerny was born on a crisp autumn day in 1979, in the picturesque town of Daly City, California. Raised in a close-knit family, she learned early on the values of empathy, compassion, and perseverance. Her parents, both teachers, instilled in her the importance of education and the power of knowledge.

Rosalyn's academic journey began at a young age when she displayed an exceptional aptitude for learning. Her passion for studying human behavior and societal dynamics led her to excel in high school. In 1997, she earned a scholarship to attend Princeton University, where she majored in Psychology and minored in Sociology.

During her time at Princeton, Rosalyn became known for her dedication to helping others. She volunteered at the campus counseling center, providing support to students facing emotional challenges. It was during this time that she first glimpsed her future calling in the field of family law.

In 2001, Rosalyn graduated with honors, armed with a profound understanding of human relationships and a desire to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. She decided to pursue a career in law, a path that would enable her to use her knowledge and empathy to assist those navigating the complex and emotionally charged world of divorce.

After completing law school and passing the bar exam, Rosalyn quickly established herself as a rising star in the field of family law. Her deep understanding of human behavior and her empathetic approach to clients set her apart from her peers. In 2007, she joined Daly City Divorce Lawyers, a prestigious law firm specializing in divorce cases.

Rosalyn's passion for helping women going through divorce became her life's mission. She dedicated countless hours to understanding the unique challenges women face during this tumultuous period. Her dedication led her to write two influential books on the subject, "Unveiling Strength: A Woman's Guide to Divorce" and "Breaking Free:Empowering Women in Divorce."

Outside of her career, Rosalyn is a loving wife and devoted mother of two. She believes in the importance of a strong support system and encourages her clients to lean on their loved ones during challenging times.

As a partner at Daly City Divorce Lawyers, Rosalyn McInerny continues to make a difference in the lives of women seeking guidance through the difficult process of divorce. Her dedication, empathy, and unwavering commitment to her clients have earned her a reputation as a compassionate and knowledgeable advocate.

Rosalyn McInerny's story is one of resilience and compassion. She is a shining example of how one person's determination and empathy can positively impact the lives of countless others, helping them find strength and hope in the face of adversity.