A divorce is an incredibly difficult process. As a result, many families wish to maintain their privacy during this stressful and emotional time. Luckily, there are a number of ways to maintain your privacy during a Massachusetts divorce. Read on to learn more.
Consider the Grounds
One of the first things to consider when it comes to filing for divorce is the grounds on which you will file. In Massachusetts, you can file on the following fault grounds:
- Desertion
- Cruel and abusive treatment
- Non-support
- Imprisonment of 5 years or more
- Adultery
- Gross and confirmed habits of intoxication
- Impotence
But, you can also file for a no-fault divorce on the premise of “an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.” This simply means that your marriage no longer works and is beyond repair. This is important to consider because grounds for a divorce can become a matter of public record. As a result, filing on the grounds of an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage may afford you more privacy than citing a specific fault ground.
Settle Your Divorce Outside of Court
One of the best ways to maintain your privacy is by settling your divorce outside of court. This can be done through the process of mediation or collaborative divorce, among others.
Mediation- This process allows spouses to engage in negotiations with the guidance of an unbiased third-party mediator. During this time, you can discuss matters such as child custody, child support, the division of assets, and alimony. It is important to note that the process of mediation is strictly confidential. Neither spouse nor the third party is allowed to share any information in mediation or use it against one another.
Collaborative divorce- When you get a collaborative divorce, you and your spouse will sign a Participation Agreement that states you are ready to work together towards divorce terms that you can both agree upon. Collaborative divorce is different from mediation in that instead of one mediator helping you through the process, you also receive assistance from other outside parties, including accountants, psychologists, financial analysts, attorneys, and more. This specialized assistance is so that various disputed areas of your divorce can be addressed by experts. These experts are employed to give you a better perspective on your situation so that you can reach an outcome that both you and your spouse agree upon.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding divorce in Massachusetts, contact our firm today.
Contact our Firm
For over 30 years, The Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley, P.C. has provided quality legal support and representation for clients in Bristol County and all of Massachusetts. Our firm’s experience eases the stress of clients while providing the legal services they deserve. If you need help through a contested divorce, contact The Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley, P.C. for a consultation today.
