Law Offices of Meridith A. Gregory, LLC North Andover Family Law Attorney | Divorce and Child Relocation 2026-08-25T08:14:49Z https://www.attorneygg.com/feed/atom/ WordPress On Behalf of Law Offices of Meridith A. Gregory, LLC <![CDATA[Can the primary custodian move out of state with their child?]]> https://www.attorneygg.com/?p=48012 2026-08-20T08:15:28Z 2026-08-25T08:14:49Z Packing up boxes and leaving for a new state can be a breath of fresh air. But that excitement comes with major legal hurdles if you are from Massachusetts and want to move out. Here is what you need to know. 

The legal procedure 

Under Massachusetts law, one parent cannot remove a child who is a native of or has resided five years within this commonwealth without official authorization. This is typically granted in one of two ways: explicit written consent from the non-relocating parent or a court order. Taking off without one of these can lead the court to order the immediate return of the child.

What if the other parent disagrees?

If your spouse disagrees, you can petition the court for permission with the help of an attorney. It is important to note that the Massachusetts courts focus on the purpose and likely impact of relocation on the child before giving a judgment. It usually looks at relocation favorably if it is helping the parent significantly from which a child may also benefit indirectly. Most importantly, the court may ask, do the benefits of relocation truly outweigh uprooting the child from their primary residence? If the relocation is largely against the best interests of the child, the court may not allow the child to leave Massachusetts. 

Charting the path ahead

Relocation disputes in Massachusetts can be challenging. With a Massachusetts family law attorney in your corner, you can fight to protect your rights as a parent while keeping your child’s best interests at the heart of the journey.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Meridith A. Gregory, LLC <![CDATA[Can divorce put your minority business interest at risk?]]> https://www.attorneygg.com/?p=48006 2026-08-13T13:18:36Z 2026-08-18T13:18:12Z How courts treat business interests in divorce No two business interests are exactly alike. Before deciding how to treat a minority ownership interest, a court may consider questions such as:
  • Is the ownership interest marital or separate property?
  • When and how did you acquire the interest?
  • Do shareholder, partnership or operating agreements affect the ownership interest?
  • What is the ownership interest worth?
  • Do limits on selling or transferring the interest affect its value?
The answers help determine whether the ownership interest becomes part of property division and, if so, how a court treats it.

Valuing minority interests

For many business owners, value becomes the central issue. Unlike publicly traded stock, an interest in a closely held business does not have a public market price. Financial professionals may review company records, earnings and future income potential. They may also consider whether limits on control or transfer reduce the interest's value. Because valuation methods can produce different results, each spouse may present separate valuation evidence.

The role of business agreements

If you own a minority interest in a closely held business, you may already have a shareholder agreement, partnership agreement or operating agreement. Those documents can limit who may acquire an ownership interest and explain what happens when an owner leaves the business. Still, those agreements do not automatically determine how a divorce court classifies or values your interest. Instead, the court may consider the agreement together with the facts of the marriage and the applicable law.

How valuation affects property division

Owning a minority interest does not automatically mean you will lose part of your business during divorce. The larger question is how that interest fits into the overall division of marital property. Because a minority ownership interest can have substantial value, disagreements about classification and valuation may affect the division of other marital assets. That means the value of your business interest can affect the overall financial outcome even if ownership of the company does not change.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Meridith A. Gregory, LLC <![CDATA[When can you modify a child custody order? ]]> https://www.attorneygg.com/?p=48011 2026-08-07T11:20:32Z 2026-08-12T11:19:56Z A material change in circumstances Families’ needs evolve, and Massachusetts courts recognize that. A child custody order isn’t necessarily permanent, but it can’t be changed on a parent’s whim or desire for a new schedule. To modify a custody order, the petitioning parent must show:
  1. There has been a material and substantial change in circumstances since the current order was entered
  2. Modifying the custody arrangement is best for the child
Material changes are significant enough to affect the child’s well-being or the practicality of the current arrangement, such as the following:
  • One parent plans to relocate.
  • A parent’s work schedule has changed.
  • A child has new educational or medical needs.
  • There are concerns regarding substance abuse, domestic violence or neglect
The court will carefully evaluate the facts of the case and consider factors including:
  • The child’s relationship with each parent
  • The child’s home, school and community environment
  • Each parent’s ability to provide a safe environment
  • Each parent’s ability to meet the child’s physical and emotional needs
Depending on the child’s age and maturity, the court may also consider the child’s preferences when reviewing the overall circumstances. Requesting a child custody modification involves more than simply completing a form and submitting documentation. The court must be convinced that modifying the order will benefit the child. A legal professional can review the reasons for your request and whether it may justify a modification. Their guidance can help protect your parental rights while working toward an arrangement that supports your child’s well-being.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Meridith A. Gregory, LLC <![CDATA[Prenups in second marriages]]> https://www.attorneygg.com/?p=48007 2026-07-24T11:52:29Z 2026-07-29T11:51:48Z A second marriage often comes with unique considerations typically not found in first marriages. Both spouses may have children, established careers, retirement savings, businesses and real estate. It's a common misconception that prenuptial agreements are for wealthy people or that they signal that one spouse expects the marriage to fail. In reality, they are practical planning tools that help couples define expectations and protect assets. Here is what you should know:

Why second marriages present different financial challenges

By the time people remarry, they may have accumulated assets and financial obligations that didn't exist during the first marriage. One or both spouses may own a home, operate a business or support children from a previous relationship. Without clear planning, these issues can become more complicated if the marriage ends in divorce or the death of a spouse. A prenuptial agreement is a written contract signed before marriage that establishes how certain financial matters will be handled both during the marriage and if the marriage ends. Rather than depending on the law to determine property division, couples can create an agreement tailored to their specific needs. Depending on the couple's goals, a prenup can address topics such as:
  • How certain assets and debts will be treated during the marriage
  • Which property will remain separate property
  • Existing financial obligations
One of the most important reasons people entering a second marriage should consider a prenup is to help protect the financial interests of children from a prior relationship.  For example, a parent may want to preserve ownership of:
  • A family home
  • Family heirlooms
  • A closely held business
  • Investment accounts
While a second marriage represents new beginnings, it also deserves thoughtful planning. A carefully drafted prenuptial agreement can help protect assets and provide clear financial expectations for both spouses.

]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Meridith A. Gregory, LLC <![CDATA[What is a gray divorce and why is it complicated?]]> https://www.attorneygg.com/?p=48004 2026-07-10T11:13:00Z 2026-07-15T11:12:18Z A gray divorce is not a technical term, but rather a general term that refers to older couples deciding to end their marriages. Often, these couples are at least in their 50s. These divorce cases are viewed a bit differently than those involving younger couples, such as those getting divorced in their 30s. Interestingly, the gray divorce rate has been increasing in the United States. For those over 45 years old, the odds of getting divorced have been rising, and the rate has increased threefold for those who are over 65. With the increase in these types of divorces, it is important to consider some of the complications they can create.

Financial issues

These complications are often financial. Naturally, older couples are less likely to have to deal with child custody cases, but they may have been married for decades, so they have an incredible amount of marital assets. In many cases, couples in this age bracket essentially share everything that they own. They have to split up savings, investments, real estate, home furnishings, collections, cars, artwork and much more. Additionally, many couples in their 50s and 60s have been planning to retire together. A divorce means that they are going to have to retire independently, but they may be just a few years away from doing so. This can make it complex to divide money that was specifically set aside for retirement, and they may also have to address things like retirement benefits or a pension plan provided by one person's employer. When sorting out all of these financial details, it is critical that couples going through a gray divorce understand exactly what legal steps to take.  ]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Meridith A. Gregory, LLC <![CDATA[3 tips for helping children adjust to divorce]]> https://www.attorneygg.com/?p=48003 2026-06-26T09:34:48Z 2026-07-01T09:33:43Z Parents who decide to divorce will have to find ways to help their children adjust to this lifestyle change. It can be difficult for children, particularly if they’ve only known life with both parents living together.  The exact things your children will need help with might not be the same as for another child who has divorced parents. You have to consider what your children need so you can find ways to help them. 

1: Keep consistent routines

Children thrive on consistency, so being able to keep major parts of your child’s life the same as before the divorce can be beneficial. It’s best if both parents can do this, particularly if the children are younger. This could be as simple as keeping the child’s bedtime and morning routines consistent. 

2: Keep children out of adult matters

Both parents should commit to communicating with each other and not using the children as a sounding board. Being placed between their parents could make the children feel as though they have to choose a side, and that’s a stressful and emotionally charged feeling for a child. 

3: Keep other adults informed

Children often need extra support when their parents are going through a divorce, but it’s almost impossible to know when that need will arise. It’s a good idea to tell other adults who have regular contact with your children about the divorce so they can be prepared to step in to support your children when necessary.  It’s beneficial to establish a parenting plan as early as possible after the separation. This helps to ensure both parents are on the same page about how the children should be raised. Getting this document set up properly can be challenging, particularly if both parents don’t agree on every matter. It may be beneficial to work with someone who’s familiar with these matters to ensure everything is covered in the document.   ]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Meridith A. Gregory, LLC <![CDATA[The emotional cost of staying in an unhappy marriage]]> https://www.attorneygg.com/?p=48002 2026-06-11T09:20:08Z 2026-06-16T09:19:11Z For many, marriage is often viewed as a source of comfort, stability and partnership. When a relationship becomes strained, however, the emotional burden can quietly affect many aspects of daily life. Many people remain in unhappy marriages for a variety of reasons, including financial concerns, family obligations or uncertainty about the future. While these concerns are understandable, prolonged marital conflict can have a significant toll on personal well-being.

When emotional stress becomes a daily reality

Living in a persistently unhappy marriage can create ongoing stress that affects both mental and emotional health. Frequent arguments, tension in the home or prolonged periods of emotional distance can leave individuals feeling anxious, overwhelmed or emotionally exhausted. Over time, these feelings can make it difficult to focus at work, maintain relationships with friends and family or enjoy activities that once brought happiness. Chronic marital stress can also contribute to physical symptoms. Difficulty sleeping, headaches and changes in appetite are common responses to prolonged emotional strain. When conflict becomes a regular part of daily life, the body may remain in a heightened state of stress, making it harder to relax and recover. The longer these conditions persist, the more challenging it can become to maintain overall health and well-being. In some situations, individuals begin to lose confidence in themselves or feel trapped by circumstances they do not know how to change. The uncertainty surrounding separation or divorce often causes people to delay the important decisions. Seeking legal guidance can help provide clarity about available options, rights and responsibilities. Understanding the legal process may reduce some of the fear and uncertainty that often accompany major life changes and allow individuals to make informed decisions about their future. Ending a marriage is never an easy decision, but no one should feel obligated to endure ongoing emotional hardship without understanding their options. Speaking with an experienced legal professional can provide valuable guidance, answer important questions and help you determine the best path forward for your circumstances.  ]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Meridith A. Gregory, LLC <![CDATA[Can your spouse claim part of your practice?]]> https://www.attorneygg.com/?p=48000 2026-06-10T09:06:16Z 2026-06-15T09:05:31Z For physicians, attorneys, dentists and other licensed professionals, divorce can raise a difficult question. Can a spouse claim part of the practice you built? The answer depends on timing, growth and state law. It may also depend on how much the household relied on the practice during the marriage. In Massachusetts and New Hampshire divorces, a professional practice can become part of the property discussion even when only one spouse holds the license or ownership interest.

The practice may be more than income

A professional practice is often more than a paycheck. It may include equipment, accounts receivable, goodwill, partnership rights or buyout terms. It may also reflect years of effort, risk and reinvestment. That distinction matters. Income usually affects support. Ownership value may affect property division. In higher-asset divorces, both issues can arise simultaneously. Under Massachusetts law, courts may consider each spouse’s estate, occupation, income, liabilities, needs and future opportunities when dividing property. New Hampshire property rules also use an equitable framework and begin with the principle that equal division is fair unless certain factors warrant a different result.

Valuation often drives the dispute

A spouse usually cannot step into your medical, legal or dental practice and run it. Still, they may argue that the practice has marital value. That often makes valuation one of the most important parts of the case. A valuation may look at:
  • Revenue trends
  • Owner compensation
  • Business debt
  • Client or patient concentration
  • Transfer restrictions
  • Buy-sell agreement terms
  • Personal goodwill versus enterprise goodwill
These details can change the number. A solo practice built around one professional’s reputation may raise different issues than a larger firm with staff, systems and repeat revenue.

Privacy concerns need early attention

Professionals often worry about sensitive records. A practice may hold patient information, client files, billing data, partner emails or private business plans. Those concerns are valid, but they do not remove the need for financial clarity. Early planning can help narrow what the case truly needs. Tax returns, profit and loss statements, operating agreements, loan documents and receivables reports may help show value without turning the divorce into an open review of every private detail.

State law can shape the strategy

Couples with ties to both Massachusetts and New Hampshire should not assume the case will look the same in either state. Property rules, valuation arguments and settlement pressure can differ. Jurisdiction can affect more than where the papers get filed. It may influence how each side approaches professional equity, premarital interests, retained earnings and the structure of any buyout in a complex family law dispute.

Clarity protects the practice

A professional practice rarely fits into a simple divorce formula. The case may require a careful split between income and ownership value, marital growth and separate property or personal reputation and transferable goodwill. For professionals and their spouses, the goal is to identify the value at issue without damaging the business that supports both financial futures.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Meridith A. Gregory, LLC <![CDATA[Making shared custody work after a parental relocation]]> https://www.attorneygg.com/?p=47999 2026-05-28T13:26:27Z 2026-06-02T13:25:55Z A custody modification can help The current custody arrangements reflect the current housing arrangements of both parents. When either parent moves a significant distance from the other's residence, the frequency of custody exchanges and the duration of parenting time for each parent may shift substantially. In some cases, the parents are still close enough for one parent to have the children all weekend. Other times, the travel time between the homes is enough to make weekly custody exchanges prohibitive. In that scenario, parents may need to use vacations from school, including summer vacation, winter break and spring break, to augment one parent's time with the children. Integrating requirements for virtual visitation through video conferencing technology could also help parents maintain a strong connection with their children. Parents can potentially work together to establish new arrangements for sharing custody over a larger distance. They can pursue an uncontested modification to accommodate the relocation. If they can't agree on the details of the new arrangement, then requesting a hearing in family court could help. Reviewing the potential impact of the proposed move on a current custody schedule with a skilled legal team can help people plan effectively for an upcoming move with or away from their children.]]> On Behalf of Law Offices of Meridith A. Gregory, LLC <![CDATA[Who makes medical decisions for children after a divorce?]]> https://www.attorneygg.com/?p=47998 2026-05-14T13:16:20Z 2026-05-19T13:15:59Z Children count on their parents to make decisions for them about a variety of things. One of these is the medical care they need. When parents divorce, those medical decisions can become one of the primary areas of contention.  In a child custody case, legal custody is one of the terms that you’ll hear. This has to do with making decisions for the child. Those decisions include more than just medical decision-making powers. It includes education and other areas. 

How is legal custody set up?

Legal custody is either full or joint. If one parent is granted full legal custody, they can make all the decisions related to the covered areas, including medical care, without having to consult the other parent.  If joint legal custody is granted, both parents have to share the decision-making powers. This usually means that the parents have to agree on things related to medical care. In some cases, the parents can each make decisions on their own about minor medical issues, but more serious matters must be discussed.  Generally, medical decision-making powers don’t have to do with emergency medical treatments. The parent who’s with the child when a medical emergency occurs, or the one who makes it to the child first, is likely the one who will make the immediate decisions.  Legal custody is set by either the court’s child custody order or the parenting plan, but that’s all that’s included. Anyone going through a divorce involving children should learn about what terms should be set for raising the children, which may be easier if they work with someone familiar with these matters. ]]>