Please note: local and state laws change constantly. This information is for educational purposes only. We do our best to keep this up-to-date, but please contact us to discuss your unique situation.
Getting Divorced in Massachusetts
A divorce from the bond of matrimony may be adjudged for:
- adultery;
- impotency;
- utter desertion continued for one year prior to the filing of the complaint;
- gross and confirmed habits of intoxication caused by voluntary and excessive use of intoxicating liquor, opium, or other drugs;
- cruel and abusive treatment;
- if a spouse being of sufficient ability, grossly or wantonly and cruelly refuses or neglects to provide suitable support and maintenance for the other spouse;
- for an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.
Same Sex Marriage
In the state of Massachusetts, same sex marriage is legal and binding.
Residency Requirement
The parties must have lived together as husband and wife in Massachusetts, and one of them must have lived in this commonwealth at the time when the cause occurred.
Waiting Period
6 months after the filing of the complaint, the court may enter a judgment of divorce.
Massachusetts Divorce Laws and Marriage Laws
You can find a complete listing of the Massachusetts divorce laws by searching “divorce” here.
