If you are in the midst of a divorce, or you were preparing to get a divorce before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, you are most likely concerned about how the pandemic will impact your divorce. As you probably know, one of the primary concerns in most divorces is property distribution. Please continue reading and reach out to our knowledgeable Massachusetts divorce attorneys to learn more about property distribution in the wake of COVID-19 and how we can help you through the legal process ahead. Here are some of the questions you may have:
Can COVID-19 affect property distribution?
Courts in Massachusetts and throughout New England have closed due to the COVID-19 breakout, though they do remain open for certain essential legal matters. Of course, if you are going through a divorce, who gets your house and other assets is a priority for you. However, Massachusetts courts tend to think of other family law matters, such as child custody, domestic violence, and otherwise as even more pressing. That being said, once courts begin reopening, it may still be difficult to find a judge who is willing to take your case, as many courts are backed up and proceedings are delayed.
By the time a judge is ready to take your case, it may be months from now. Because of this, and because the COVID-19 pandemic has affected us all, both physically and financially, you can expect that the ultimate distribution of your property will also be affected, especially if you or your spouse lost a significant amount of assets.
How can I protect my property until I can see a judge?
If you and your spouse wait until the pandemic is over to see a judge, there are several things you can do to protect your assets in the meantime. They are as follows:
- Temporary agreements or orders. You and your spouse can establish certain agreements to record your assets and liabilities in writing so you can avoid any misunderstanding or discrepancies in the future.
- Discovery. In writing, you and your spouse can identify all of your assets and debts, including sworn inventories, requests for documents, depositions, interrogatories, and more.
- Monitor and manage your assets. You and your spouse should determine who will handle certain assets and pay certain debts until courts reopen and your case is taken. If you or your spouse’s financial situation changes, you must disclose that information to your spouse.
For any additional questions regarding your divorce, please do not hesitate to give our experienced Bristol County divorce lawyers a call today. We are here to help.
Contact our experienced Massachusetts 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.
