Massachusetts Divorces

1) How long will it take to get divorced?
The fastest divorce in Massachusetts takes 90 days. The longest takes at least nine months after you file papers. Most divorces take at least a year because of on-going negotiation or trial preparation.

2) How much will I spend on legal fees and costs ?
Massachusetts courts charge $110 for filing fees and $1 for a summons. Lawyers' fees range from several hundred dollars to many thousands of dollars. According to a recent study, the average divorce in a major metropolitan area costs about $18,000.

3) Can I represent myself?
Absolutely, but a wise consumer consults counsel if there are children and assets.

4) I've been married less than a year. Am I eligible for an annulment?
No. Courts rarely grant annulments and never based on the length of your marriage.

5) Should I hire a private investigator to prove my spouse is having an affair?
Don't bother. You can get divorced simply by testifying that your marriage is irretrievably broken. You can also testify that you believe (without proof) that your spouse is involved with someone else because your spouse stays away from home several nights a week without explanation. Judges "get the picture."