For same-sex couples who are contemplating a break-up, there are often multiple issues with which they must deal. If children are a part of the equation, the situation can become even more complex. Below are tips to make divorce a little easier for these couples in Massachusetts. Get familiar with the laws concerning custody and support. Since Massachusetts recognizes same-sex marriage, some of the issues that come up in other states won’t apply. It is important, however, to know one’s rights and how the law addresses individual scenarios. Find a lawyer that meets your needs. When a same-sex couple with children divorce, it can be helpful for them to consult with an attorney who specializes in family law, especially as it applies to same-sex couples. An experienced attorney can be an invaluable resource in what could be a trying time. Now is the time to review any existing agreements or documents pertaining to the relationship. If a prenuptial agreement was signed, did it take children into account? Are there documents outlining estate-planning that should be considered? Occasionally, some of the issues that come up during the filing period have already been settled. It’s a good idea to check early on in the process. Continue to keep the same routine, even if one partner is pushing to make drastic changes. Routine and past history are taken into account by the court when deciding things like child custody. Changing the day-to-day routine and then later asking for it to return to what

When a Massachusetts relationship has become strained, both parties often want to make a change. Deciding how to move forward, however, can be a bit of a challenge. In many cases, spouses are unsure whether to spend the time and energy trying to repair the marriage, or simply move forward with a divorce. The following tips are offered in the hopes of making those decisions easier to reach. At the end of the day, a marriage is an important bond, and is a significant aspect of an adult’s life. In cases in which the marriage can be saved, spouses should make every effort to do so. Some couples grow apart as they move through the transitions of life, such as when children enter the family or when they leave as adults. In these cases, the bond between husband and wife can sometimes be strengthened with the proper focus and effort. One way to know that a marriage is salvageable is when both spouses are willing to try counseling. The desire to make the effort signifies that both parties still hold hope that their bond can persevere. In addition, couples counseling is always more effective when both parties are willing to fully participate in the process. When a Massachusetts couple is unsure how to move forward through difficult times, the best course of action is to try all available methods of strengthening and preserving the bond between them. In some cases, counseling will be successful, and both spouses will gain insight

Massachusetts readers may have heard of an unusual case centered on the struggle over the care and custody of a shared pet. The dog, a miniature dachshund named Joey, was a pet in the home of a gay couple. When the two women decided to divorce, “custody” of Joey became a central issue. The judge presiding over the divorce agreed to schedule a separate hearing for the purposes of determining where Joey would reside, which marked a highly unusual approach to this form of property division. In many cases, judges refuse to hear arguments over which party will retain the family pets. In other cases, animals are treated as another form of property, and decisions are made based on which party acquired the animal or paid for its care. Very rarely is the issue given significant time in court, making this case highly unusual. Unfortunately for those who looked to the case to present a landmark decision on the issue, the couple was able to settle the matter outside of court. Joey will remain in the care of the woman who received him as a gift from her spouse. There is no mention of whether his other “mother” will be allowed to visit with him. Even though this case did not result in a hearing, pet lovers and animal rights activists still view the matter as a victory. The judge was at least willing to hear the argument, suggesting a shift away from treating animals in the same manner as