Divorce & Family Law Guidance You Can Trust
Navigating a divorce or family law matter can be one of life’s most stressful challenges. For a detailed overview of the legal and emotional aspects of ending a marriage, read our Comprehensive Guide to Divorce in Massachusetts. At Horrigan & Norman Law, Attorney Mark S. Horrigan brings over 30 years of experience in divorce and family law to help clients in Lynn, Salem, and the Greater Boston area. Whether you’re dealing with contested or uncontested divorce, child custody, or financial concerns, we provide personalized and efficient legal representation tailored to your needs.
How Do I Get Started on Getting a Divorce?
The process of divorce depends on whether it is contested or uncontested:
- Uncontested Divorce: Both parties file a joint petition for divorce with a separation agreement and an affidavit of irretrievable breakdown of marriage. Your separation agreement must address all aspects of the divorce.
- Contested Divorce: It begins by filing a complaint for divorce. A summons, provided by the court, will be served to your spouse.
- Filing Fees: A filing fee is required for both types but may be waived if the filing party qualifies as indigent.
Learn more from the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court
What Child Custody Issues Should I Discuss?
If children are involved, it’s critical to address these questions early in the process:
- Who will pay child support?
- Who will have legal custody (decision-making for education, medical care, and religious instruction)?
- Who will have physical custody (where the child will live)?
- What will the visitation schedule look like?
- How will grandparents and stepchildren be involved in visitation?
- How will the children’s health and dental insurance be handled?
- How will college tuition and uninsured medical expenses be paid?
- How will children be claimed as dependents for tax purposes?
What Documents Should I Have for a Divorce Case?
To prepare for your divorce case, gather the following documents. Having these ready will help streamline the process and ensure your attorney can fully evaluate your financial situation and case details:
- Income and Financial Documents:
- Individual and business income tax returns (last 3-5 years, federal, state, and local)
- Proof of your current income
- Proof of your spouse’s current income
- Bank statements
- Certificates of deposit
- Pension statements
- Retirement account statements
- Trusts
- Stock portfolios and stock options
- Property and Debt Information:
- Mortgages and property tax statements
- Real property appraisals
- Personal property appraisals
- List of personal property (furnishings, jewelry, artwork, electronics, clothing, etc.)
- List of property owned by each spouse before marriage
- List of property acquired individually as a gift or inheritance during the marriage
- List of contents in safety deposit boxes
- Loan documents
- Credit card statements
- Utility bills
- Other bills (e.g., school tuition, unreimbursed medical bills, music lessons)
- Legal and Insurance Documents:
- Prenuptial agreement (if applicable)
- Separation agreement
- Wills and Living Wills
- Powers of attorney and Durable Powers of attorney
- Advance health care directives
- Life insurance policies
- Health insurance policies
- Homeowner’s insurance policies
- Automobile insurance policies
- Employment contracts and benefits statements
- Additional Financial Tools:
- Monthly budget worksheet
- Completed financial statements
View official Probate and Family Court divorce forms
About Attorney Mark S. Horrigan
Attorney Mark S. Horrigan has been practicing law since 1983 and has over 30 years of experience helping clients navigate divorce, custody, and complex family law matters. He earned his J.D. from Suffolk University Law School and is a member of the Massachusetts Bar.
Mark is known for his practical, solution-oriented approach—working to resolve disputes efficiently and affordably while protecting his clients’ long-term interests. His prior experience working on behalf of insurance companies gives him unique insight when addressing financial and property division matters.
Contact an Experienced Divorce Attorney in Lynn, MA
Attorney Mark S. Horrigan understands the complexities of divorce and family law and is committed to guiding clients through the process efficiently and affordably. Whether you’re addressing child custody, property division, or financial matters, we’re here to help.
Schedule Your Consultation or call 781-599-7477 to discuss your case.