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Massachusetts Solution to Housing Challenges – ADU’s
/by Sclafani & MoriartyUnderstanding 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 […]
Can I Be Discriminated Against Because of My Disability?
/by Sclafani & MoriartyDisability 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 […]
Can My Employer Ask About My Criminal Record?
/by Sclafani & MoriartyCriminal 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 […]
Age Discrimination at Work
/by Sclafani & MoriartyUnderstanding 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 […]
Understanding Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) in Massachusetts
/by Sclafani & MoriartyPFML 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 […]
Divorce and Bankruptcy: Which Debts are Dischargeable in Massachusetts?
/by Sclafani & MoriartyWhen 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: […]
How Bankruptcy Affects Your Credit Score
/by Sclafani & MoriartyFiling for bankruptcy can feel overwhelming, especially with its impact on your credit score. However, understanding the process and its long-term effects can help you make informed financial decisions. What Happens to Your Credit Score? When you declare bankruptcy, your credit score will typically take a significant hit—sometimes by 130 to 200 points or more, […]
Bankruptcy Explained
/by Sclafani & MoriartyThe path to financial freedom through bankruptcy starts with understanding the steps involved. In Western Massachusetts, the process typically begins with a consultation with a bankruptcy attorney. During this initial meeting, you’ll review your financial situation, including debts, assets, income, and expenses. Your attorney will help determine the most appropriate form of bankruptcy or suggest […]
Filing for Bankruptcy in Massachusetts
/by Sclafani & MoriartyFiling for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can be a challenging decision, but it often provides a path to a fresh financial start. In Massachusetts, as elsewhere, the process involves detailed paperwork, specific court requirements, and legal nuances that can be overwhelming to navigate alone. Here’s why hiring a lawyer is beneficial if you’re considering Chapter 7 […]
Service Animal Laws in Massachusetts
/by Sclafani & MoriartyIn Massachusetts, service animals are protected by state and federal laws, ensuring they have access to public spaces, including restaurants, stores, and public transportation. Under both the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Massachusetts General Laws, a service animal is defined as a dog trained to perform tasks directly related to a person’s disability. Emotional […]