Our ability to handle same-sex divorce is derived from the same skill set and in-depth knowledge of the law as our work in other complex areas of Massachusetts family law. If you are a gay or lesbian spouse dealing with a marriage breakup, you can turn to our downtown Boston firm with confidence in our deep commitment to helping you through the process with understanding, detail focus and the greatest possible efficiency.
Massachusetts Family Law Lawyers Who Can Untangle Legal Complexities
The Commonwealth's legalization of "gay marriage," marked by the decision to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples in Massachusetts beginning in 2004, was an important milestone, but it has not been matched with recognition of same-sex marriages at the federal level or in some other states.
This disparity creates complexities that our experienced Boston same-sex divorce lawyers understand and know how to navigate — particularly in terms of your rights involving division of retirement accounts and pensions. Whereas conventional divorce allows division of such assets, and then rollovers without penalties, under Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs), your property division settlement must account for the fact that this option is not available.
Focus on Your Goals and Thorough Handling of the Details of Your Case
You can turn to our proven firm, led in family law practice by respected negotiator and trial Attorney Helen Holcomb and long-time GLAD member, Attorney Charles Hope, for resourceful representation of your interests in matters including:
- Child custody and visitation/joint parenting time if your case involves children
- All aspects of property division, however complex and nuanced — including the use of experts if needed for real estate and business valuation, forensic accounting to ensure full disclosure of assets, and other aspects of your case
- Other financial aspects of your case including any claim for alimony and child support if applicable
- An understanding of the differences in state and federal protections afforded same-sex spouses, and strategies required to address these discrepancies.
Determined in Negotiations, Yet Always Prepared for Trial
Not every Boston family law firm is capable of representing people going through same-sex divorce, and it is certainly true that not all firms are equally well equipped with the knowledge and experience to do so. We heavily emphasize negotiation to resolve family law disputes, including same-sex divorce, but stand always prepared to litigate in order to achieve a just and fully equitable outcome for our client.
For an informative, exploratory consultation on your case, we encourage you to contact our law offices in the heart of downtown Boston today.
Representative Cases
