Massachusetts has recognized same-sex marriage for a decade. With marriage comes the possibility of divorce. Divorce and ending domestic partnerships can be difficult and complex undertakings for anyone, but this is especially true for same-sex couples because the law has not always been clear on the rights of these individuals. Still, couples in same-sex relationships have many of the same concerns as their different sex counterparts, including property division, handling of debt, issues of alimony and tax considerations. Another frequent source of concern for married couples or those in domestic partnerships is how to handle issues related to children that resulted from the relationship. Visitation and child support can be contentious matters, and that is the case even when a couple was married when the child was born or adopted. If a couple had a serious relationship that resulted in a child or children, but the couple never married, this can make determining support, custody and visitation even more complex. The good news is that unmarried couples with children have become increasingly common in the last 50 years, so there are far greater options for non-married parents who want to continue relationships with their children. If you are considering a divorce or terminating your relationship with the parent of your child, a variety of legal considerations needs to be accounted for. Many of these issues can be decided out of the courtroom, but however they are determined, understanding the law can be beneficial to obtaining an equitable outcome. For more

Since the beginning of the battle of same-sex marriages, it was often said by Massachusetts same-sex couples that traditionalists should focus more on lowering the rates heterosexual divorce, rather than prevent same sex-couples from marrying. It now appears that traditionalists are doing just that in some states. Many often think that once a marriage is emotionally over, it will be no issue to divorce, but lawmakers may be trying to now prevent that. A no-fault divorce used to be seemingly easy to come by, but some opponents are hoping to make the process more difficult. Recently in some states, lawmakers have attempted to pass bills making a no-fault divorce more difficult. The bills ranged from anything to longer wait periods for a divorce or limiting and even excluding reasons a couple would be able to ask for a divorce. When a marriage is past the point of saving, a couple typically knows it. Recent attempts at mandating counseling before a couple can divorce have been approved, although it could end up making things worse for the couple looking to divorce. A divorce is often best done quickly in an attempt to prevent drama or conflict from sparking. Making a couple commit to spending time in counseling talking to a therapist about how to save their marriage may cause backlash. Many of these divorce laws were from a much different time period than the one we live in now. They were from a time where being anything but married gave a

For same-sex couples who are contemplating a break-up, there are often multiple issues with which they must deal. If children are a part of the equation, the situation can become even more complex. Below are tips to make divorce a little easier for these couples in Massachusetts. Get familiar with the laws concerning custody and support. Since Massachusetts recognizes same-sex marriage, some of the issues that come up in other states won’t apply. It is important, however, to know one’s rights and how the law addresses individual scenarios. Find a lawyer that meets your needs. When a same-sex couple with children divorce, it can be helpful for them to consult with an attorney who specializes in family law, especially as it applies to same-sex couples. An experienced attorney can be an invaluable resource in what could be a trying time. Now is the time to review any existing agreements or documents pertaining to the relationship. If a prenuptial agreement was signed, did it take children into account? Are there documents outlining estate-planning that should be considered? Occasionally, some of the issues that come up during the filing period have already been settled. It’s a good idea to check early on in the process. Continue to keep the same routine, even if one partner is pushing to make drastic changes. Routine and past history are taken into account by the court when deciding things like child custody. Changing the day-to-day routine and then later asking for it to return to what