How do I file for divorce?
If you are looking to file for divorce in Massachusetts, the process can be complex. It is important to understand the legalities of filing for divorce in the state. The first step is to fill out and file a complaint for divorce in the Probate and Family Court in the county where you have lived for the last year. This complaint includes information about your marriage and the reasons why you are filing for divorce. You will then need to serve your spouse with a copy of the complaint. This can be done either through a third party, such as a constable, or through a private process server. Once the complaint is received by your spouse, they must respond. If you and your spouse can both agree on the terms of the divorce, you can file an uncontested divorce. This process is typically much less expensive and time-consuming than filing a contested divorce. In Massachusetts, you must also attend a divorce hearing. At this hearing, you will present evidence of your divorce case before a judge. The judge will then make a decision about the terms of the divorce. Once you have followed these steps and the judge has granted the divorce, your divorce is final. You and your spouse must then follow any court orders set forth in the divorce settlement, such as child custody or division of assets.
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