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Stuck With an Agreement That No Longer Fits?

Job changes, remarriage, retirement, growing kids, life doesn't stand still, and your court orders shouldn't either. We'll help you update your agreement to reflect where you are now.

Let's Get Started On Your Case

How We Help With Modifications

We evaluate whether your situation truly meets the legal threshold for modification before you spend time and money pursuing one, and if it does, we build the strongest possible case for the updated terms you need.

Why a Modification Lawyer Matters?

Circumstances change: job loss, remarriage, relocation, a child's changing needs. When those changes are significant enough, Massachusetts law allows existing custody, support, or parenting orders to be modified to reflect the new reality.

  • A significant change in either parent's income
  • Relocation of a parent or child
  • A child's changing needs as they get older
  • Remarriage affecting alimony or support obligations
  • Retirement affecting support obligations
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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 Modification Considerations

Massachusetts law sets a real threshold for when an order can be modified, not every life change will qualify. Here's what typically comes into play, so you'll know whether your situation has a real path forward.

Courts generally require a material and substantial change in circumstances since the original order.

Modifications can apply to custody, parenting time, child support, and alimony.

Retirement can be a valid basis for modifying alimony under Massachusetts law, depending on circumstances.

Frequently Asked Modification Questions

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

1 : What counts as a "material change in circumstances"?

It varies by case, but generally means a significant shift, such as a substantial income change, relocation, or change in a child’s needs, since the original order was issued.

2 : Can I modify a support order if I lost my job?

Potentially, yes. Job loss can support a modification, though the court will look at the full picture, including efforts to find new employment.

3 : How long does a modification case take?

It depends on whether both parties agree. We’ll give you a realistic timeline once we understand your specific situation.

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.

Ready for an Update?

Life moves forward, and so should your agreement. We'll help it catch up.

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