Attorney Michael Franklin

After a divorce is finalized, many parents assume that the parenting schedule put in place will remain unchanged. However, life circumstances often evolve, and what once worked may no longer serve the best interests of the child. A common question among divorced parents is whether parenting time arrangements can be modified—and the answer is yes, under the right conditions. In states like Massachusetts, courts recognize that parenting plans may need to change over time. This article explains when and how parenting time can be modified in Massachusetts, what courts consider, and how to approach the process.

When Can Parenting Time Be Modified?

Parenting time orders can generally be modified when there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances. Courts understand that families grow and schedules shift, and parenting arrangements should reflect those changes when necessary.

Can Parenting Time Be Modified After Divorce in Massachusetts? After a divorce is finalized, many parents assume that the parenting schedule put in place will remain unchanged. However, life circumstances often evolve, and

For many couples, the marital home is the most valuable property they own and the place where their children have grown up. When divorce becomes inevitable, questions about who will live in the home, both during and after the proceedings, often cause significant stress. In Massachusetts, the marital home is treated like any other property subject to division, but its importance to the family means it often requires special consideration.

Temporary Living Arrangements

During a divorce, the court may issue temporary orders about who can live in the marital home. If children are involved, judges generally prioritize stability and may allow the parent who has been the children’s primary caregiver to remain in the home while the case is pending. This does not mean that parent will automatically keep the home after the divorce, but it provides continuity for the children during a difficult time.

Who Stays in the Marital Home During a Massachusetts Divorce? For many couples, the marital home is the most valuable property they own and the place where their children have grown up. When divorce becomes inevitable, que

Getting pulled over by the police can be a stressful experience, even for minor traffic infractions like speeding or running a red light. Most people assume that a traffic stop will end with a citation or warning—but is it possible for an officer to arrest someone instead of issuing a ticket? In Massachusetts, the law gives police officers limited authority to arrest drivers for traffic violations, but only under specific circumstances. Understanding your rights and responsibilities during a stop can help protect you from unnecessary escalation or legal jeopardy.

When Can Police Arrest a Driver for a Traffic Violation?
Massachusetts law generally distinguishes between civil motor vehicle infractions and criminal traffic offenses. Most routine violations—such as speeding, failing to signal, or rolling through a stop sign—are civil infractions and do not justify an arrest. Officers typically issue a citation that can be paid or contested in court.

Can Massachusetts Police Arrest You for a Traffic Violation? Understanding Your Rights During a Traffic Stop Getting pulled over by the police can be a stressful experience, even for minor traffic infractions like speeding or running a red light. Most people assume tha