Divorce.
Guiding You Through Change—With Clarity.
Understanding Divorce in Massachusetts
Massachusetts offers two primary paths to divorce:
Chapter 208, Section 1A – Uncontested Divorce (Joint Petition)
This is for couples who agree on everything—including property division, custody, child support, and alimony—and want to file together.
To proceed under 1A, both spouses file a joint petition along with:
A signed Separation Agreement
Financial statements
Child support guidelines worksheet (if applicable)
An affidavit of irretrievable breakdown
Additional forms depending on the case
A 1A divorce typically involves one brief hearing, and the divorce becomes final 120 days after the court enters the judgment. We help ensure all paperwork is complete, enforceable, and reflects your agreement fairly.
Chapter 208, Section 1B – Contested Divorce
If you and your spouse do not agree on one or more major issues—like custody, property division, or support—you will need to file a 1B complaint for divorce.
A 1B divorce can involve:
Formal discovery (exchange of financial and other information)
Motion hearings for temporary orders
Mediation or negotiation
Trial (if no agreement is reached)
Even contested divorces often settle before trial—but they require skilled legal strategy from the start. We advocate for our clients’ goals while seeking practical, child-focused solutions wherever possible.
What’s Addressed in a Divorce?
Whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, the court must resolve the following issues:
Division of Assets and Debts
Custody and Parenting Time (if children are involved)
Child Support
Alimony (spousal support)
Each of these topics can involve legal nuance, especially when emotions or finances are complicated.
How Long Does Divorce Take?
The timeline depends on the type of divorce and how cooperative both parties are. An uncontested 1A divorce may be finalized in as little as four to six months. A contested 1B divorce can take longer—sometimes a year or more—especially if trial becomes necessary.
We help you move efficiently through the process while protecting your rights and avoiding costly delays whenever possible.
Do I Really Need a Lawyer?
Even in a 1A divorce, having an attorney review your separation agreement is highly recommended to ensure it’s clear, complete, and enforceable. In contested divorces, legal representation is essential to protect your financial and parental rights—especially when the outcome will shape your future for years to come.
How Poppy Legal Group Can Help
No two divorces are the same. At Poppy Legal Group, we meet you where you are—whether you’re filing jointly, responding to a complaint, or still figuring out your next move. We provide honest advice, strategic support, and the steady presence you need during a difficult time.
Our goal is to help you move forward—not just legally, but emotionally and practically.
