Family Law and Divorce

Do not go through divorce alone. Attorney Buxton is an experienced family law attorney and a certified mediator. She is based in Pepperell and works with clients throughout Central Massachusetts, Merrimack Valley, Lowell and Greater Boston on a wide range of family law cases. The laws regarding divorce, alimony and custody are complex and Massachusetts has seen significant changes in recent years, making it important to find an attorney who specializes in this area to guide you to the best result for your future. Attorney Buxton offers expertise in these areas:

• Divorce
• Child Support
• Alimony
• Custody
• Visitation
• Paternity
• Adoptions
• Contempt Orders
• Modifications
• Guardianship of a Minor

Divorce

A divorce is the death of a dream.  Don’t go it alone.  Dependable legal representation makes a difference in determining the outcome of your divorce.  Attorney Buxton will ensure you receive confident and superior legal representation and will zealously advocate for your rights.

Divorces can include alimony, child support, child custody, property division and other issues that may arise.  It is possible to file for an Uncontested Divorce and a Contested Divorce.  Each type of divorce proceeding requires each party to list any and all of their financial assets and debt.  Attorney Buxton can help provide the necessary tools to get this accomplished.

Alimony

There is a lot at stake when determining alimony payments. The law regarding alimony has changed in Massachusetts recently and it is important to find an attorney who understands these changes well and can explain how they affect your divorce case.

Prior to March 1, 2012, Massachusetts Probate Judges were not guided by a formula to award alimony to spouse.  Each judge decided if and when alimony would be awarded to a party in addition to determining the length of time they would receive same.

As of March 1, 2012, the law changed and judges were given new guidance and a mathematical formula to follow when calculating the amount of alimony, in addition to the amount of time it shall be awarded.

There are four types of alimony in Massachusetts, including general term alimony, rehabilitative alimony, reimbursement and transitional alimony.

Each divorce has its own circumstances which allow the courts along with the legislation to make a determination with regard to alimony.  If you are considering divorce, seek out an attorney who can explain the law and how it affects you.

Separation Agreements

If both parties are able to come to an agreement as to the necessary issues involved in their divorce, a Separation Agreement will need to be drawn up which will include any and all issues in each divorce matter.  This agreement is used as a guide for the parties to follow post-divorce.  The intricate details of this Agreement are paramour and must be carefully drafted.  Attorney Buxton is detail oriented and prides herself on drafting complete and thorough agreements.

Child Custody

Custody issues are usually the most important aspect in a divorce.  There are two types of custody:  physical custody (where children reside) and legal custody (where both parties are able to share the decision making process with regard the children’s) health, welfare and education.  Attorney Buxton will aggressively fight to obtain or retain custody of your children.

Child Support

Child Support is calculated by using the mathematical formula known as the Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines.  Such formula includes both parties’ earnings and certain deductions for child care, health, dental and vision insurance along with other circumstances.  Using the guidelines alone could be detrimental in the amount you should be receiving or paying out.  Attorney Buxton can help you determine your rightful amount allowed by law and protect your rights through the process.