In Massachusetts, every employee—regardless of full-time, part-time, temporary, or seasonal status—has the right to earn sick time. The Earned Sick Time Law ensures that workers can take the time they need to care for themselves and their loved ones without risking their jobs or income. Who Qualifies for Earned Sick Time? All employees in Massachusetts …
In 2024, Massachusetts enacted significant updates to its firearm laws, aiming to enhance public safety and address emerging challenges in gun regulation. These changes, effective immediately upon signing, have introduced new requirements and restrictions that firearm owners and prospective licensees must understand to ensure compliance. Key Changes in the 2024 Firearm Legislation: Regulation of Ghost …
In 2023, Massachusetts legalized sports betting, joining numerous other states in embracing this rapidly growing industry. The move has had significant economic and social implications for the Commonwealth. Economic Impact Since the launch of in-person betting on January 31, 2023, followed by online betting on March 10, 2023, Massachusetts has generated over $127 million in …
In July 2024, Massachusetts enacted the Frances Perkins Workplace Equity Act, introducing new Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) reporting requirements for employers operating within the state. These measures aim to enhance workplace equity and transparency. Who Must Comply? The reporting mandate applies to employers who meet both of the following criteria: Employee Threshold: Employers with 100 …
In 2025, Massachusetts is implementing significant increases to the annuities provided to disabled veterans and Gold Star families, as part of the recently enacted HERO Act. These enhancements aim to offer greater financial support and recognize the sacrifices made by these individuals. Key Changes to Annuity Benefits: Increase in Annuity Amount: The annual annuity will …
In January 2025, Massachusetts implemented significant updates to its parentage laws, bringing them in line with modern family structures and ensuring equal protections for all families. These changes impact parental rights, surrogacy agreements, assisted reproduction, and other aspects of family law. Whether you are a prospective parent, legal guardian, or family law professional, it’s important …
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 …