Recent Blog Posts

Taking Legal Action Against Domestic Violence

Taylor Lawrence — Sun, 06 May 2012 21:35:00 GMT

Domestic violence is an inexcusable crime that requires immediate legal attention and coinciding legal action. Domestic violence can occur in many forms of abuse outside of the physical. Domestic violence can also be in the form of emotional and economic abuse. Domestic violence encompasses any form of these abuses that occur within a household or family setting. Common forms of these injustices include spousal abuse, child abuse, and child neglect.

Domestic abuse is not an issue to take lightly. Just a single instance of domestic violence can easily spiral out of control. Often abuse is not reported and conditions notably progress for the worst. It is important to end the cycle and make the first sign of abuse the last. If you or someone you know is involved in a relationship of domestic violence you must take action now.

Massachusetts domestic violence attorney, John Rauseo, takes pride in his modest firm's ability to give every client the individual attention they need when dealing with such sensitive issues. Rauseo is understanding of each client's unique experience and will walk each client gently through the process of taking legal action. Get yourself or a loved one out of danger now by contacting Rauseo Law for a free consultation today.

Importance of a Divorce Attorney

Taylor Lawrence — Tue, 01 May 2012 04:52:00 GMT

The importance of hiring a divorce attorney is something not to be overlooked. An experienced divorce attorney will not only make the divorce proceedings carry on smoothly but they are also capable of bettering your overall future. The decisions you make within your divorce will have lasting impressions and so the attorney guiding you through the process is, in turn, guiding your future.

You may feel comfortable with the knowledge available found on internet sources or through other media however every divorce is different and should be treated so. The carefully spent time and attention of a well-educated lawyer will sift through the necessary details and hone in on your specific situation. A divorce attorney is crucial in negotiations and the division of assets.

Massachusetts divorce attorney, John Rauseo, has over 30 years of experience representing people throughout their divorce. He can proudly say he is creating happier futures for divorcing couples. With his guidance you may be on your way to a brighter future. Please contact Rauseo Law today for a free consultation.

Post-Judgement Modifications

Taylor Lawrence — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 21:15:00 GMT

Once a divorce settlement has been made with a final spousal support or child support order put in place another act of the court is required to modify the plan. Modifications of the plan cannot and should not be made outside of the court due to the potential future harm it could cause you both financially and otherwise without proper signed agreements.

A modification to spousal support or child support is not easily made however the court system is aware that major life changes do occur. When said major life changes occur and a modification is necessary it is important to consult appropriate help in making the modification official. The guidance of an experienced divorce attorney with years of experience is an indispensible asset when trying for a modification.

Massachusetts divorce attorney, John Rauseo, has all the knowledge necessary to fulfill the exact legal procedures. To jump start your process for modification, pleasecontact Rauseo Law for a free consultation today!

Past-Due Support Payments: What You Can Do To Get What You Need

Taylor Lawrence — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 16:35:00 GMT

Every month, countless parents are not providing their children with the financial support that they are required to provide as parents and as subjects to the law. Family struggles and rising tensions are inevitable when a parent disregards the child support payments they are bound to. Most notably, the children are the ones who suffer. Undoubtedly, the lack of financial support brings an unwarranted burden on the family however help is available.

Past-due support payments are an issue of the law. Disobeying child support payments sanctioned to a party is a serious issue that must be addressed. The sooner the issue is addressed the sooner the financial burden can be lifted. The seriousness of an issue that harms a child is of top priority within the court system which is why the law will allow the payment recipient to engage in a collection action. The timeliness of taking action in an issue of past-due support payments is beneficial to you therefore action must be taken swiftly.

For 25 years of experience in the matter, please contact Rauseo Law and recieve a free consultation with Massachusetts divorce attorney John Rauseo today. Help is availble and his immediate assistance will get you the future you deserve.

MA Alimony Reform In Effect

Divorce Attorney — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 00:35:00 GMT

March 1, 2012 was the first day that the Massachusetts Alimony Reform Act took effect. One month into the reform's activation, many news outlets are reflecting on the act's rise to legislature. The struggle of divorcee Steve Hitner is noted as the cautionary tale that the movement for reform was based.

Steve Hitner was reportedly ordered to pay $865 per week for permanent lifetime alimony in 1999. Hitner was denied a reduction of the alimony by the court. The steep penalty proved even steeper for Hitner whos business crashed in 2001. Determined to help other divorcees from finding themselves in the same financial downfall, Hitner created the Massachusetts Alimony Reform Organization or MAR. With the help of other organizations such as the Second Wives Club, Hitner was able to gain the attention of Massachusetts legislature and the rest is history.

However, although barbaricalimony laws may be a thing of Massachusetts' past, other states, including Florida and New Jersey, remain slaves to outdated alimony rulings. Sparked by Steve Hitner's proactive success, many organizations have been created in these states and hope to garner the same results

To take advantage of Massachusetts' envied alimony reform please contact Rauseo Law for a free consultation with experienced Massachusetts alimony reform lawyer, John Rauseo, today!

Same Sex Divorce Expertise

Taylor Lawrence — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 02:14:00 GMT

With the recent legalization of same-sex marriages in some U.S. states comes the inevitable onset of same-sex divorces. Just as in any relationship, same-sex marriages at times dissolve. Often children are involved, assets need to be properly divided, and a knowledgeable lawyer needs to be involved.

In the case of same-sex divorces, an experienced attorney is especially integral to the divorcing process. The laws pertaining to same-sex divorces are constantly changing and can vary dramatically from state to state. Even within the state, laws pertaining to same-sex divorces are often debated and subject to change. Therefore, having a seasoned lawyer who is up to date with the most recent rulings on same-sex divorce is an indispensible asset to you and your partner's future.

Massachusetts divorce attorney John Rauseo has notable experience guiding same-sex couples through the divorce process. His insight on the most up to date laws pertaining to same-sex divorces will keep you and your partner well equip for making the proper decisions for the next stage in your lives. To begin this new chapter please contact Rauseo Law for a free consultation with Massachusetts divorce lawyer John Rauseo today.

The Delicate Matter of Child Custody

Taylor Lawrence — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 15:46:00 GMT

The effects of a divorce can often weigh heavy on children of any age and can have life long reprecussions if the matter is not handled maturely and delicately. Often children can be lost in their parents' arguments however constant positivity towards the children and reassurance that they are not to blame is indispensible for their character. It is important to put children at the highest priority throughout the divorce and for the parents to be able to put their differences aside.

Remember: Although you may not be husband and wife anymore, you will forever be parents.

Laws concerning child custody and visitation rights are of the utmost importance given this certain circumstance. The full understanding of your own state's position on child custody and visitation rights will empower you as a divorcee and better the outcome both for your children and yourself. For these reasons, when children are involved in a divorce legal advice is crucial.

Experienced MA divorce lawyer, John Rauseo, can walk you step by step through your options as a parent going through a divorce including child custody and visitation rights. Please contact Rauseo Law for a free consultation and move forward today!

What You Need To Know About Annulments

Taylor Lawrence — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 18:47:00 GMT

There are often misconceptions surrounding the term "annulment." People often ask how much time after getting married are you able to get an annulment. Many are surprised to find out that the answer is none. A legal marriage cannot be annulled. No matter how short a marriage may be an annulment can only be applied to a marriage that is void or voidable. In other words a marriage can only be annulled if a marriage is not legal. A marriage could be deemed not legal if one or both of the parties was not of legal age at the time of the marriage, married a blood relative, or was already legally married at the time.

Specific criteria must be filled to get an annulment and this criteria may change from state to state so be sure to research state specific information when inquiring about your current predicament. However it is important to remember that whether your marriage lasted one day or one year if it is legal it can only be legally terminated through a divorce. To begin a your journey towards legally ending your marriage please look to the talent and experience of MA divorce attorney John Rauseo by contacting Rauseo Law for a free consultation today!

The Importance of a Divorce Attorney

Taylor Lawrence — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 22:30:00 GMT

Poor guidance during a divorce can lead to a costly and emotionally draining future. A lawyer is an indispensible asset to bettering life after divorce and avoiding any future conflict. Whether a divorce is amicable or a bit more complicated the experience and knowledge of a seasoned professional is worth the investment.

A divorce lawyer is crucial in coming to amicable agreements about issues such as child custody and property division. Attorneys can assure that the evidence you are utilizing is poignant and appropriate. Also, with the help of a talented attorney, retaining property and custody as well as matters of visitation will be managed properly and permanently upon well advised negotiation. A lawyer can also walk you step by step through extensive paperwork.

Massachusetts divorce attorney, John Rauseo has over 28 years of experience in guiding divorcees with ease through this sometimes difficult process. His in depth knowledge of family law will lessen stress and empower you with understanding. To begin, please contact Rauseo Law for a free consultation today.

Benefits of an Uncontested Divorce

Taylor Lawrence — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 19:01:00 GMT

During a divorce many aspects of the couple's past and newly separated future must be taken carefully into consideration. If the two parties are lucky enough that their vision for the future is the same an uncontested divorce may be considered.

Although it is clear that divorce may not be the simplest of procedures, an uncontested divorce is the most economical, painless, and timely of options. One of the major benefits of an uncontested divorce is that it does not require a litigation. Without a litigation procedure couples often feel less strained financially and emotionally.

In an uncontested divorce the parties file a joint petition that includes the terms of the agreed upon settlement to be reviewed by a judge. One reviewed, the judge will look for confirmation that both parties understand and agree upon the terms. The court's finalization of the divorce will often be completed in one month's time.

Moving forward, it is important that getting a divorce that benefits both parties fairly remains a priority. Be sure to not rush into a settlement that is not right for you in order to avoid far more detrimental costs in the future.

MA Divorce Attorney, John Rauseo, is a crucial aspect to this process. With his educated expertise he is able to guide you to the best process and outcome. Please contact Rauseo Law to begin bettering your future with a free consultation today.

Filing For Divorce In Massachusetts

Taylor Lawrence — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 04:20:00 GMT

Divorce can often be an overwhelming experience and starting the process may be the most daunting task of them all. However if parties take the initiative to become educated on the process stress may be relieved and the confidence in taking this next step may be restored. In Massachusetts, a party is able to file for divorce by either filing a "joint petition" or filing, what is commonly known as, a "complaint for divorce."

A joint petition is when both parties agree on the terms of the divorce. These agreements must include alimony, custody, division of assets, and grounds for divorce amongst other pressing issues between the parties. This joint petition is the first step towards additional legal documents to follow and will evantually result in an uncontested hearing in which the judge reviews the agreement before a court.

A complaint for divorce is filed when the two parties cannot agree on the terms of the divorce. If the disagreed upon issues at hand are needed to be dealt with immediately, such as issues of child custody, the plaintiff may chose to file. The defendent will be served a summons issued by the court from the plaintiff. The defendent then is given a window of time to answer the complaint. To follow, the parties exchange information and further discuss the case as well as the potential settlement. If still nothing can be agreed upon a pre-trial conference is held. Once at trial, cases are often resolved with the help of the court.

The above is a very brief succinct version of the two processes. To learn more please schedule a free consultation with Massachusetts Divorce Lawyer, John Rauseo by contacting Rauseo Law today.

What To Know About Your Separation Agreement

Taylor Lawrence — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:46:00 GMT

When contemplating divorce many couples find it valuable to sign a separation agreement. A separation agreement is signed to solidify the legal separating of husband and wife. Many couples find this necessary when the couple agrees to live separately .

The terms "divorce agreement" and "separation agreement" are often mistakenly interchanged. A legal separation does not grant the couple a divorce. The major difference between the two is that a divorce agreement is ordered and agreed upon by the court whereas the separation agreement is not a final decree of the court.

The purpose of a separation agreement is to fairly and legally divide issues of child support,taxes, property, debt, assets, insurance, and matters of that nature between the couple. These divisions are often taken into consideration in the event of a future divorce settlement.

Massachusetts Divorce Lawyer, John Rauseo offers a free consultation to help you in answering any questions in proceeding with your separation agreement. Please contact Rauseo Law for a free consultation today.

"I'm Getting a Divorce, What Do I Do First?"

Taylor Lawrence — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 18:10:00 GMT

Once it is clear that your relationship is unable to be repaired, the idea of getting divorced can be overwhelming. For many, this is the first time you are confronted with this situation and you are bombarded with information from the media, friends, and family about how to proceed.

The first thing to do is get educated. Use reliable, professional sources such as the Rauseo Law Blog, to have the best understanding of your rights and the proceedings that are in your future. Knowing more about the future will be instrumental in your ability to gain the most beneficial divorce and life to follow.

Secondly, be sure to collect all important legal and financial documents related to your marriage. Being organized in this process will ease stress and keep you prepared.

Once you have collected your documents and feel comfortable with a general knowledge of divorce, set up a consultation with an attorney. Massachusetts Divorce Attorney, John Rauseo offers a free consultation to help clear up any questions you have, make you feel comfortable and ease your way into a better future. Please contact Rauseo Law for a free consultation today.

Prenup Popularity

Taylor Lawrence — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 15:17:00 GMT

Celebrity divorce has become a common topic within popular culture and, as a result, a common topic in our daily lives. With the rising interest in the extravagance of celebrity weddings and the even more sought out details of their eventual divorce, the term "prenup" has also become commonplace.

According to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers or AAML, the term "prenup" has not only appeared in the average American's vocabulary but has become much more prevalent within the average relationship as well. The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers is made up of 1,600 matrimonial lawyers and 73% of those lawyers have seen an increase in prenuptial agreements within the last 5 years. Just a decade ago, a prenuptial agreement was nearly unheard of.

Many suspect this increase in prenups is due to the prevalence of celebrity divorce in the media however the current tight economic times is another notable factor. People are becoming less naive to the possibility of divorce and are taking the steps the protect their assets.

To learn more about protecting yourself and bettering your divorce proceedings please contact Rauseo Law to schedule a free consultation with MA Divorce Lawyer, John Rauseo.

Importance of Knowing Your Date of Separation

Taylor Lawrence — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:05:00 GMT

When going about your divorce proceedings, many details of your relationship will become important pieces of information towards your case. One significant detail often overlooked is the date of separation or DOS. Courts frequently wish for a formal date to establish as the date of separation however identifying this date with certainty can be a challenge.

Date of separation varies by state. Some states define it as the relocation of a spouse from the couple's residence or even just the relocation within the home (i.e. no longer sleeping in the same bedroom etc.). While other states recognize the date of separation as when the legal separation papers are signed by each party.

Despite how difficult it may be to define, the date of separation should not be overlooked. In most cases, assets are established as marital property from the date of marriage to the date of separation.

To learn more contact Rauseo Law to schedule a free consultation with Massachusetts Divorce Attorney, John Rauseo today.