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What Happens at the DCF Fair Hearing?

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On June 10, 2016
You can hire an attorney to represent you.  At the Fair Hearing you can call witnesses and Subpoena the witnesses; you can get a copy of the DCF records, including the 51A and 51B. The hearing is usually two hours or less in length at the local DCF office where the allegations were supported. Usually, […]
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What is a Mandated Reporter for a DCF Case and What are their Obligations?

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On June 1, 2016
In Massachusetts a Mandated Reporters has to contact DCF when in their professional capacity they reasonably have constant belief that a child under the age of 18 is suffering from neglect and/or abuse.  There is supposed to be an oral report filed immediately and a written report filed within 48 hours.  Further, the Mandated Reporter […]
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What do I do if I don’t get along with my DCF Worker?

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On May 27, 2016
It is important to realize that the DCF worker is not your friend.  You do not have to get along with the person; you don’t have to like him or her; in fact, it is rare that that occurs. DCF can attempt to hold it against you if you do not cooperate with your worker. […]
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What to do after being served divorce papers in Massachusetts

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On May 18, 2016
It can be overwhelming, upsetting and confusing to receive divorce paperwork even if you are expecting a divorce, never mind if you were unaware. It may be very emotional and easy to ignore or act inappropriately. However, there are some important steps to prepare and respond. You should keep track of when you receive the […]
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What do I do if I Disagree with DCF’s Decision?

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On April 29, 2016
You can file an Appeal requesting a “Fair Hearing”.  This is your opportunity to argue about the DCF decision.  There will be an Administrative Hearing Officer, who is not involved with the case, who will decide whether DCF was correct or incorrect under the law and the facts.  If you are successful, then DCF Fair […]
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Can you make changes to your estate plan documents?

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On April 18, 2016
The answer is yes you can.   You can either execute a new will or execute something called a Codicil to your Last Will and Testament. These cannot be simply handwritten changes, as they will generally not be recognized and can make it more confusing to probate the Will. They can also lead a dispute between […]
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Where should I keep my Will and other Estate Planning Documents?

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On March 7, 2016
You should keep your estate planning documents either in a fire proof box in your home desk or a file cabinet in a home office. In addition, you should inform your loved ones that you have executed the documents and you can also see if you want to have your attorney’s office keep a copy […]
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What is Probate?

  • Posted by Alexander Nesson
  • On February 29, 2016
Probate is a form of court proceeding that Massachusetts requires in order to determine legally who is entitled to inherit your property. The reason behind it is to show that the deceased will is valid and executed in accordance with the laws of Massachusetts. Once it is declared valid by the Probate Court, the court […]
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