What is a Final Divorce Order in MA?

Getting a divorce in Massachusetts is a complicated process which involves several steps. The last step in the process is the divorce decree – also referred to as the Judgment of Divorce Nisi — which makes your divorce legally-binding. Once the final divorce order or decree is entered, you will have to wait for a period of time — commonly referred to as the nisi period — before your divorce is finalized.

Whether it is a contested divorce or an uncontested divorce, family law attorney Jay Davis can fight hard for you and make sure you get your fair share. With his legal knowledge and experience, Jay Davis can expertly guide you through the divorce process and achieve the best possible outcome. To set up a free consultation, call Davis Law Group in Massachusetts at (617) 752-6216.

Final Divorce Decree in Massachusetts

A divorce decree is a document which is signed and issued by the judge at the end of a divorce process in Massachusetts. It is a legal document, which contains all the important details related to your divorce including:

• The separation agreement (signed by you and your spouse)
• The judge’s ruling
• Post-divorce rights and responsibilities of both the parties (you and your spouse)
• The terms and conditions regarding the division of assets and debt, alimony, child custody, and child support

Divorce Decree and Divorce Certificate – Not the Same

It should be noted that a divorce decree is not the same as a divorce certificate in Massachusetts. A divorce certificate is a legal document which proves that your marriage has officially ended. It does not contain the particulars of your divorce or the rulings related to alimony, child custody, or child support. A decree, on the other hand, not only contains all the aforementioned information, but also contains the judge’s signature.

Divorce Records in Massachusetts

Divorce records in Massachusetts contain a vast amount of information related to your divorce — including the divorce decree, the divorce certificate, and all the transcripts and documents related to your divorce proceedings.

Under the Massachusetts Freedom of Information Act of 1967, the public has the right to access public records — including divorce records — from governmental agencies. Your divorce records, however, cannot be accessed by anyone (other than yourself and your ex-spouse) if they contain the following information:

• Financial details of the parties involved (you, your ex-spouse, and your children, if any)
• Information pertaining to the assets owned by the parties involved
• Personal information of your minor children
• Personal information of parties who are victims of sexual/violent/domestic abuse or assault
• Information pertaining to the mental health of the parties involved

Navigating your way through the divorce proceedings in Massachusetts can be difficult, unless you are represented by a capable family law attorney.

One of the most accomplished and successful divorce attorneys in Massachusetts, Jay Davis, can provide you with effective legal representation and fight aggressively to achieve a favorable outcome. With Jay Davis, you have a trustworthy legal expert who is fully committed to protecting your interests and achieving the results you need. Call us at (617) 752-6216 so we can have a pivotal conversation that could be vital for your divorce prospects.

Nisi Period in Massachusetts

One of the most important things you need to know about a divorce decree in Massachusetts is that it does not finalize your divorce. You still have to wait for a period of time — commonly known as the nisi period — before you can officially change your marital status from ‘married’ to ‘single.’ So, if you want to remarry after your divorce, you can only do so after the nisi period is over.

• In the event of a no-fault divorce (also referred to as a 1A divorce in Massachusetts), you will have to wait for 120 days from the date on which the divorce decree is issued.
• In the event of a fault divorce (also referred to as a 1B divorce in Massachusetts), you will have to wait for 90 days from the date on which the divorce decree is issued.

It’s vital to note that the nisi period does not change or postpone the orders of the judge with respect to alimony or child support. For instance, if you have been ordered to pay spousal support and child support, you should start doing so right after the decree is issued. The nisi period has no impact on these orders.

Seasoned Divorce Attorneys in Massachusetts

Filing for divorce is a life-altering decision which can have far-reaching consequences on your personal life, finances, and the future of your children. So, it is critical to be represented by a family law attorney whom you can trust and rely on. Massachusetts family law attorney Jay Davis has represented scores of clients over the years in contested as well as uncontested divorce cases. He can evaluate your situation, tell you what your options are, and provide legal advice while keeping your best interests in mind.

To find out how Jay Davis and his legal team at Davis Law Group can help you with your divorce or family law matter, call us today at (617) 752-6216.