Horizontal Logo Blue Gold@4x
(978) 766-5697

Your Kids Deserve Stability, Not a Battle

Custody disputes can bring out the worst in everyone. We'll help you build a plan that protects your relationship with your children and keeps their wellbeing at the center of every decision.

Let's Get Started On Your Case

How We Help With Child Custody

We approach custody matters with a family-focused mindset, helping you build an arrangement that genuinely works for your children, not one designed to punish the other parent. When negotiation is possible, we pursue it. When it's not, we advocate firmly in court.

Why a Child Custody Lawyer Matters?

Custody disputes are some of the most emotionally difficult parts of a divorce or separation. Massachusetts courts decide custody based on the "best interests of the child," considering both legal custody (decision-making authority) and physical custody (where the child primarily lives).

  • Establishing an initial custody arrangement during divorce
  • Custody disputes between unmarried parents
  • Relocation requests affecting custody or parenting time
  • Disagreements over decision-making authority (education, healthcare, religion)
Contact Us

Our Process

We believe you should always know where your case stands and what's coming next. Here's a look at how we work together, from that very first conversation to your final resolution.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

We listen first, then give you an honest assessment.

Step 2: Strategy & Filing

We map out a plan built around your goals and your budget.

Step 3: Negotiation & Litigation

We push for resolution where possible, and advocate firmly in court when necessary.

Step 4: Resolution & Next Steps

We help you move into your next chapter with confidence, including warm handoffs to financial or estate professionals if needed.

Key Child Custody Considerations

Custody decisions in Massachusetts follow specific legal standards, and understanding them can help you know what to expect before you're in the middle of it. Here are a few key points worth knowing as you think through your situation.

Courts distinguish between legal custody (decision-making) and physical custody (residence).

Custody can be primary or shared, depending on what serves the child’s best interests.

Massachusetts courts consider factors including each parent’s involvement, stability, and ability to co-parent effectively.

Frequently Asked Child Custody Questions

You probably have a lot of child custody questions; that's completely normal. Here are a few we hear most often, and honest answers to go with them.

Legal custody covers major decisions (school, healthcare, religion); physical custody determines where the child primarily lives.

2 : Does Massachusetts favor one parent over the other?

No. Courts focus on the best interests of the child, not automatically favoring either parent.

3 : Can a custody arrangement be changed later?

Yes, if there’s a material change in circumstances. See our Modifications page for details.

What Our Clients Are Saying

We take pride in providing the best customer experience for first initial contact to the last.

Justine

Samantha was a breath of fresh air to work with after a negative experience with another mediator. She is a consistent communicator, and she swept in and quickly fixed everything we needed with great efficiency....

Samantha was a breath of fresh air to work with after a negative experience with another mediator. She is a consistent communicator, and she swept in and quickly fixed everything we needed with great efficiency. My only regret is not hiring her from day one!

Kevin

Attorney Surette clearly explained the process to me and how I should proceed with each step. She handled my case expeditiously and efficiently.

Attorney Surette clearly explained the process to me and how I should proceed with each step. She handled my case expeditiously and efficiently.

Kendra

Add testimonial description here. Edit and place your own text.Samantha helped me tremendously as I ended a 25-year marriage. The process can be overwhelming so it helps to have someone who can guide you through...

Add testimonial description here. Edit and place your own text.Samantha helped me tremendously as I ended a 25-year marriage. The process can be overwhelming so it helps to have someone who can guide you through the steps and share their knowledge in a meaningful way. Of all the people I know who've gone though a divorce, I think I experienced the easiest proceedings due in large part to Samantha's legal knowledge.

Jeana

I had the honor of working with Attorney Samantha Surette, as she represented me and guided me throughout a very challenging process of child custody and divorce. Attorney Surette is very professional along with being...

I had the honor of working with Attorney Samantha Surette, as she represented me and guided me throughout a very challenging process of child custody and divorce. Attorney Surette is very professional along with being strategic and one step ahead of the game. She made communication easy and her quick responsiveness was very helpful. Attorney Surrette helped me navigate through such an emotionally daunting time. Even after our time working together came to an end, she still continued to check in on myself and my family.

Eddy

Attorney Surette works very hard on behalf of her clients. In my case, she examined all options and advised me appropriately. Despite the challenges that arose, attorney Surette was steadfast in her approach. She pressed...

Attorney Surette works very hard on behalf of her clients. In my case, she examined all options and advised me appropriately. Despite the challenges that arose, attorney Surette was steadfast in her approach. She pressed forward with our strategy and presented the evidence that led my case to a fair outcome. Without Attorney Surette's steadfast approach, the outcome of my case would have been different and not necessarily as fair.

Let's Build a Plan Together

Your children's wellbeing is in thoughtful, capable hands from day one.

Contact Us