Domestic Violence and 209A Restraining Orders in Massachusetts: What You Need to Know
A 209A restraining order is a court order intended to protect people who have experienced abuse or fear they are at immediate risk of abuse from certain family or household members. Whether you are seeking protection or responding to a restraining order, understanding how the process works can help you make informed...
Lead Paint and Environmental Hazard Disclosure Failures in Massachusetts
When buying residential property in Massachusetts, sellers may be required to disclose certain environmental hazards, particularly the presence of lead paint in older homes. Failing to provide required disclosures can expose sellers to legal claims, financial liability, and disputes after the transaction closes.
Environmental hazards can affect a property's...
Buying New Construction in Massachusetts: Legal Protections and Common Pitfalls
Buying a newly built home in Massachusetts can offer advantages, including modern construction, energy-efficient features, and fewer immediate maintenance concerns. However, new construction purchases come with unique legal and financial risks that buyers should understand before signing a builder's contract.
Unlike many traditional home purchases, new construction transactions...
Estate Planning for Unmarried Couples in Massachusetts
Unmarried couples in Massachusetts do not receive the same legal protections as married spouses when it comes to inheritance, medical decision-making, and financial affairs. Without an estate plan, your partner may have no automatic right to inherit assets, make health care decisions, or manage your affairs if you become incapacitated.
How Often Should I Update My Estate Plan?
Most people should review their estate plan every three to five years, even if nothing major has changed. You should also revisit your plan sooner whenever a significant life event, financial change, or legal development affects your family or assets.
Estate planning is not a one-time task. A will,...
LaFountain & Wollman P.C. Advises Green Card Applicants Following New USCIS Adjustment of Status Guidance
Adjustment of Status remains available, but applicants may face greater discretionary review.
LaFountain & Wollman P.C. advises immigrants, families, and employers to review pending and future green card applications carefully following a recent U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) policy memorandum. This memorandum could increase scrutiny of Adjustment of...
Dividing Retirement Accounts in a Massachusetts Divorce: 401(k)s, Pensions, and QDRO Basics
Dividing retirement accounts in a Massachusetts divorce depends on when the benefits were earned, how the account is structured, and whether a court order is needed to transfer funds. Some accounts can be split directly, while others require a Qualified Domestic Relations Order, or QDRO, to divide them without tax penalties.
Sponsoring a Parent for a Green Card: Requirements for U.S. Citizens
Sponsoring a parent for a green card is one of the most direct paths to family reunification under U.S. immigration law. If you are a U.S. citizen age 21 or older, you can petition for your parent to become a lawful permanent resident, provided you meet financial requirements and complete...
State DOR Update: Withholding Rules for Massachusetts Real Estate Sales of $1 Million or More
Massachusetts has adopted new withholding and filing requirements for certain real estate sales involving non-resident sellers. For transactions with a gross sales price of $1 million or more, buyers and other withholding agents may now need to submit forms and withhold a portion of the proceeds at closing.
The...
What Happens If a Title Problem Is Discovered Before or After Closing in Massachusetts?
Title problems can delay a closing, change deal terms, or, in some cases, stop the transaction altogether. If an issue is discovered after closing, it may affect ownership rights, marketability, or your ability to refinance or sell, depending on the defect and whether title insurance applies.
What Is...