Law Office of David M. Gabriel & Associates

Directions Website

Law Office of David M. Gabriel & Associates The Law Office of David M. Gabriel & Associates has offices in Beverly, Salem and Burlington. We are here to help you with your legal needs.

A parenting schedule that worked when a divorce was finalized may not continue to work several years—or even several mon...
09/29/2026

A parenting schedule that worked when a divorce was finalized may not continue to work several years—or even several months—later. Children get older, school schedules change, parents change jobs, families move, and transportation or childcare arrangements may become more complicated. In other cases, one parent may repeatedly fail to follow the existing schedule or a child's needs may have changed significantly.

In Massachusetts, parenting arrangements established in a divorce judgment can potentially be modified. However, a parent generally cannot simply decide to change a court-ordered parenting schedule. When parents cannot agree, the parent seeking a modification must ask the Probate and Family Court to change the existing order and demonstrate that the legal requirements for modification have been satisfied.

A parenting schedule that worked when a divorce was finalized may not continue to work several years—or even several months—later. Children get older, schoo

Divorce at any age can require difficult decisions about property, finances, and the future. For couples ending a marria...
08/27/2026

Divorce at any age can require difficult decisions about property, finances, and the future. For couples ending a marriage later in life, however, those decisions can take on greater significance. After decades together, spouses may have accumulated substantial retirement savings, investment accounts, real estate, pensions, business interests, and other assets that must be addressed as part of the divorce.

Often referred to as a “gray divorce,” a divorce involving spouses in their 50s, 60s, or older can present financial issues that are different from those faced by younger couples. There may be fewer concerns involving child custody or parenting schedules, but retirement planning, alimony, health insurance, Social Security, estate planning, and the division of assets can become considerably more important.

Divorce at any age can require difficult decisions about property, finances, and the future. For couples ending a marriage later in life, however, those decisio

Understanding One of the Most Valuable Assets in a DivorceFor many married couples, retirement savings represent one of ...
07/23/2026

Understanding One of the Most Valuable Assets in a Divorce

For many married couples, retirement savings represent one of the largest assets accumulated during the marriage. Whether those assets include a 401(k), pension, IRA, or other retirement plan, they often play a significant role in divorce negotiations.

Because retirement accounts are designed to provide long-term financial security, dividing them during a divorce requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of Massachusetts law. Making informed decisions today can help protect financial stability well into the future.

Retirement Assets May Be Subject to Division

Massachusetts follows the principle of equitable distribution when dividing marital property during a divorce. Rather than automatically splitting assets equally, the court seeks a division that is fair based on the specific circumstances of the marriage.

Understanding One of the Most Valuable Assets in a Divorce For many married couples, retirement savings represent one of the largest assets accumulated durin

Massachusetts was the first state in the nation to legalize same-sex marriage, with marriages beginning on May 17, 2004....
07/08/2026

Massachusetts was the first state in the nation to legalize same-sex marriage, with marriages beginning on May 17, 2004. For many couples, however, their relationship began long before they were legally permitted to marry. Some couples shared homes, combined finances, raised children, and built substantial assets together years or even decades before their marriage became legally recognized.

When a same-sex marriage ends in divorce, one question often arises: What happens to property that was acquired during the relationship but before the marriage?

While Massachusetts divorce laws generally apply equally to all married couples, the unique history of some same-sex relationships can create important considerations during the property division process.

How Does Massachusetts Divide Property in Divorce?

Massachusetts follows the principle of equitable distribution.

Massachusetts was the first state in the nation to legalize same-sex marriage, with marriages beginning on May 17, 2004. For many couples, however, their relati

Many spouses considering divorce want to know how long the process will take. The answer depends on several factors, inc...
03/02/2026

Many spouses considering divorce want to know how long the process will take. The answer depends on several factors, including whether the divorce is contested, how complex the issues are, and how quickly the court can schedule hearings. This article explains the typical Massachusetts divorce timeline, the difference between contested and uncontested cases, and what can affect how long the process ultimately lasts.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Massachusetts?

An uncontested divorce is generally the fastest option. In these cases, both spouses agree on all major issues, including property division, child custody, parenting time, child support, and alimony. In Massachusetts, this is commonly filed as a “1A divorce.”

After filing the joint petition and required paperwork, the court schedules a brief hearing. If the judge approves the agreement, the divorce does not become final immediately.

Many spouses considering divorce want to know how long the process will take. The answer depends on several factors, including whether the divorce is contested,

Many people considering divorce hesitate to move forward because they believe their spouse must agree to the process. Th...
02/02/2026

Many people considering divorce hesitate to move forward because they believe their spouse must agree to the process. This misconception often leads to unnecessary delays and prolonged stress. In Massachusetts, a spouse’s consent is not required to file for or obtain a divorce. Understanding how the law works can help individuals take informed and confident steps toward resolution.

Is My Spouse’s Permission Required to File for Divorce in Massachusetts?
No. Either spouse has the legal right to file for divorce, regardless of whether the other spouse agrees. While some couples choose to file jointly when they agree on all terms, Massachusetts law does not require mutual consent. If one spouse believes the marriage has broken down, they may initiate the divorce process on their own.

What Happens When Only One Spouse Files for Divorce?
When a divorce is filed by one spouse, the case proceeds as a contested divorce.

Many people considering divorce hesitate to move forward because they believe their spouse must agree to the process. This misconception often leads to unnecess

The holiday season is often associated with joy, family traditions, and time together. For separated or divorced parents...
01/01/2026

The holiday season is often associated with joy, family traditions, and time together. For separated or divorced parents, however, holidays can also bring tension and uncertainty, especially when parenting plans are unclear or emotions run high. Children may feel caught in the middle, shuffling between households and trying to meet each parent’s expectations during what should be a joyful time. Thoughtful holiday planning and communication can help reduce stress and ensure the season remains focused on what matters most: the children’s well-being.

Why Are Holidays So Challenging for Co-Parents?

Holidays carry emotional weight. Parents may feel strongly about spending Christmas morning, Hanukkah nights, New Year’s Eve, or other meaningful occasions with their children. When expectations differ, or when a parenting plan lacks specific holiday provisions, conflict can arise quickly.

The holiday season is often associated with joy, family traditions, and time together. For separated or divorced parents, however, holidays can also bring tensi

Address

131 Dodge Street
Beverly, MA
01915

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Law Office of David M. Gabriel & Associates posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Category