If you’re the defendant in a Probate and Family Court case, you may want to file a counterclaim to request different orders from the court. How to File a Counterclaim in Probate and Family Court A counterclaim allows the defendant to file their own claims against the plaintiff, except in cases of Complaint for Contempt. …
How to Respond to a Case Filed Against You in Probate and Family Court If you’ve been served with a complaint and summons, you must file an answer to respond within the deadline stated—typically 20 days or 7 days for contempt cases. Your answer allows you to admit, deny, or partially agree with each paragraph …
If you’re married or divorced, you may qualify for Social Security benefits based on your spouse’s or ex-spouse’s work record. Married individuals can claim spousal benefits if their partner’s benefit is higher, while divorced individuals can claim benefits if the marriage lasted at least 10 years, they are unmarried, and they meet age requirements. Understanding …
Understanding Overtime Pay in Massachusetts In Massachusetts, overtime pay is required at 1.5 times an employee’s regular hourly rate for hours worked beyond 40 hours per week. This rate must not fall below the state minimum wage, and it applies regardless of whether the employee is paid hourly, by salary, or on piece work. For …
Understanding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): A Solution to Housing Challenges Massachusetts has introduced a new option to address housing needs. Thanks to legislation signed by Governor Healey, single-family homeowners can now create rental apartments in their homes or on their property. This initiative reflects the Healey-Driscoll administration’s commitment to increasing housing production and improving access …
Disability Discrimination in the Workplace Disability discrimination is illegal under Massachusetts law, protecting individuals with physical or mental impairments that limit major life activities. Employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations—adjustments that enable disabled individuals to perform essential job functions. Employees must provide documentation if requested, and employers must engage in an interactive dialogue to …
Criminal Record Discrimination in the Workplace Employers in Massachusetts are prohibited from asking about certain criminal record information, including arrests without convictions, sealed court records, or misdemeanors older than three years (if no new offenses occurred). What Employers Can and Cannot Do: Cannot ask about juvenile records, sealed cases, or minor offenses. Can ask about …
Understanding Age Discrimination in the Workplace Age discrimination is prohibited under both federal and Massachusetts laws, specifically protecting individuals 40 years or older from unfair treatment based on age. What Employers Cannot Do: Employers cannot take adverse actions against employees or job applicants because of age, including: Refusing to hire or promote Terminating or laying …
PFML provides Massachusetts employees with paid leave for family or medical reasons, funded by employer and employee contributions. It differs from federal FMLA and any employer-provided benefits. Workers must notify their employer before applying, ensuring legal protection against pay changes, benefit loss, or retaliation. To learn more or begin an application, visit the Massachusetts PFML …
When divorce leads to bankruptcy in Massachusetts, understanding which debts are dischargeable is essential. Generally, Chapter 7 bankruptcy can discharge many unsecured debts, like credit cards and medical bills. However, it cannot discharge all divorce-related obligations. Non-Dischargeable Debts: 1. Child Support and Alimony: Both are considered priority debts and cannot be discharged. 2. Property Settlements: …