The DCF screener based on the allegation will either screened in or screened out the allegation after consulting with an intake supervisor.  If the case is screened out, this means that DCF is not doing an investigation and there is a good chance that a parent or a client does not know about intake. If […]

Massachusetts law requires mandated reporters to immediately make an oral report to DCF when, in their professional capacity, they have reasonable cause to believe that a child under the age of 18 is suffering from abuse or neglect. Mandated reporters must also submit a written report to DCF within 48 hours. Examples of mandated reporters can […]

There is still a lot of different issues going on between states at the time of writing this blog.  I have a case where Massachusetts closes the cases out because the mother moved to Rhode Island and then the Rhode Island DCF closed the case out because the father got custody in Massachusetts.  It is […]

The “MA DCF Assessment” is a process by the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (MA DCF). It is when the Department evaluates a family to see if they should be connected to services based on the family’s problems. DCF should start assessments only for families who they believe to need their help. DCF will not begin an […]

That is strongly advised against doing so. You can not unilaterally stop paying child support without either the court approving it or without an agreement between the parents.  It is filed with the court and incorporated into a judgment.

If a court finds by the weight of evidence, that applying the Child Support Guidelines would either not meet the needs of the child or it would be inappropriate or unjust to apply the Child Support Guidelines the court will order deviation. It is though one that has to be written finding why the court […]

When you file for divorce in Massachusetts you have to determine whether to state a ground or reason for the divorce and it can be either based on fault or no fault. If it is a no-fault divorce you don’t have to blame your spouse for the divorce and that is a more common situation.

The answer is yes and no.  It can only be retroactive to the date that you have the other side served the Complaint for Modification. So, if it is something that you waited years to do, it is only until the other side gets notice through the return of service on the Complaint for Modification. 

Massachusetts does not have a statute of limitations on enforcing child support orders.  There can be times when it can occur years and years after the fact where there can be a Complaint for Contempt.

A child support order is a legal obligation. If the non-custodial parent doesn’t pay, he or she can be held in contempt and fined or sent to jail. Also, his or her license may be suspended (along with any professional license).