Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.9, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# Law Offices of Richard Mucci

Massachusetts Lawyer

## Posts

- [Blog](https://muccilegal.com/blog/)
- [Foreclosure Defense in 2026: What to Do When You Receive a Notice to Foreclose](https://muccilegal.com/foreclosure-defense-in-2026-what-to-do-when-you-receive-a-notice-to-foreclose/) - What is foreclosure? When you negotiate a loan with a loan provider, you agree to pay back what you have borrowed (this contract is called the “note”) as well as pay loan repayment installments on time (this is called the ‘mortgage’). If you do not pay installments on time, the loan provider has the right
- [An AI Drafted Partnership Agreement or Vendor Contract May be Unenforceable](https://muccilegal.com/an-ai-drafted-partnership-agreement-or-vendor-contract-may-be-unenforceable/) - Artificial intelligence has increasingly become a convenient tool used by businesses to create marketing programs, draft contracts and policies, write emails and even prepare legal documents. The speed and apparent efficiency of chatbot generated documents make them attractive propositions for many businesses and cost-effective compared to using a lawyer to create the required documents. However,
- [Succession Planning for a Solo-Preneur: Protecting Your Digital Assets and Client Contracts](https://muccilegal.com/succession-planning-for-a-solo-preneur-protecting-your-digital-assets-and-client-contracts/) - Solo-preneurs – those business owners who run their business entirely on their own - are often so busy running their business that they give scant regard to what might happen if they suddenly become ill, or are badly injured, or even die. The reality is that because there is often no-one who can swiftly take
- [The Unique Financial Challenges of Silver Divorces in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/the-unique-financial-challenges-of-silver-divorces-in-massachusetts/) - The numbers of older Americans divorcing, in what are often called “silver” or “gray” divorces, is on the rise. When couples who have been married for a relatively long period go through a divorce, the financial challenges tend to be more challenging than for younger couples. This article explores what are these challenges and what
- [Who Is Liable for Repairs to Boundaries and Retaining Walls in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/who-is-liable-for-repairs-to-boundaries-and-retaining-walls-in-massachusetts/) - Common causes of disputes between neighbors are issues relating to structures on or near the boundaries between neighboring properties. Massachusetts laws relating to who is liable for repairs to boundary fences and retaining walls are not very clear, making it important to communicate with your neighbor over issues before they become a problem. Understanding where
- [Succession Planning for Family-Owned Businesses in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/succession-planning-for-family-owned-businesses-in-massachusetts/) - Many small businesses in Massachusetts are family owned, which can present unique challenges when a consideration of succession planning inevitably comes around. A well structured and thought out succession plan can avoid the sorts of problems that could otherwise occur, such as family conflicts, leadership failures and instability within the running of the business. This
- [What to Do During a "Knock and Announce" in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/what-to-do-during-a-knock-and-announce-in-massachusetts/) - Police officers may call at your home for various reasons, not necessarily because they are investigating a crime. If there is a natural emergency imminent, for example, they may door knock to warn residents or ask them to evacuate. They may also call at other times to see whether you have any knowledge of suspicious
- [Shareholder Freeze-Outs in Small Businesses in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/shareholder-freeze-outs-in-small-businesses-in-massachusetts/) - Small businesses, which often consist of a limited number of shareholders, sometimes consisting solely of family members, often have certain advantages which can come from relatively easy communication between individual shareholders. There are also risks inherent in a small business, often structured as a closely held corporation, when majority shareholders attempt to freeze out, or
- [Understanding the Impact of Coercive Control in the Workplace in MA](https://muccilegal.com/understanding-the-impact-of-coercive-control-in-the-workplace-in-ma/) - Forms of psychological intimidation and non-violent abuse, recognized recently in Massachusetts coercive control legislation, are widely embedded in domestic relationships and to a lesser degree have their parallel in workplaces where individual workers experience a pattern of behavior mimicking what may occur in the home. In addition, coercive control as it occurs as part of
- [Alimony/Spousal Support Trends & Changes in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/alimony-spousal-support-trends-changes-in-massachusetts/) - The amount of alimony, also called spousal support, awarded as a result of a divorce in Massachusetts, is one of the more contentious aspects of a divorce. Which spouse should receive alimony, if any, how much should the paying spouse have to pay and for how long should alimony be paid for – these are
- [What to Do If Your Business Is Sued: A Guide for MA Small Businesses](https://muccilegal.com/what-to-do-if-your-business-is-sued-a-guide-for-ma-small-businesses/) - Whatever business you own or are responsible for, there may come a time when you face being sued. The following article is a brief guide to what to expect and what you should do in the event of a business lawsuit. Note that under Massachusetts law, unless you are an individual business owner, all LLCs
- [Durable Powers of Attorney & Health Care Proxies in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/durable-powers-of-attorney-health-care-proxies-in-massachusetts/) - If you become incapacitated for any reason at some point in your life, either because of an accident, a serious illness or other medical condition, it can become a legal nightmare for your spouse or close family to then make sudden important decisions about your finances or your ongoing health treatment. The solution is to
- [Criminal Record Expungement & Sealing in Massachusetts — Eligibility and Process](https://muccilegal.com/criminal-record-expungement-sealing-in-massachusetts-eligibility-and-process/) - If you have had a criminal conviction and have paid the price in fines and / or incarceration, you may find that your past convictions can make it much more difficult to get a job, find somewhere to live and even access opportunities in education. In Massachusetts, there are two main ways to prevent others
- [How Medical Malpractice is Handled in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/how-medical-malpractice-is-handled-in-massachusetts/) - Medical malpractice occurs when a medical professional’s or medical provider’s negligence causes a patient harm. A medical malpractice claim is a difficult process and it is advisable to understand how a claim can be pursued and preferably obtain legal help from an attorney with specific medical malpractice experience. Medical malpractice law in Massachusetts is similar
- [Hot New 2026 Massachussetts Laws Every Resident Should Know](https://muccilegal.com/hot-new-2026-massachussetts-laws-every-resident-should-know/) - Every year, the state’s Governor signs into law new legislation. Much of the new laws do not necessarily affect most Massachusetts residents, but whether you are an individual, business owner or government worker, it is important to be aware of what is coming into force every year in case it does affect you, your business
- [Homeowner Association Disputes: Rights and Remedies Available in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/homeowner-association-disputes-rights-and-remedies-available-in-massachusetts/) - Most people are aware of typical neighbor disputes that occur from time to time over such things as boundary confusion, damage caused by trees, noise and other intrusions. However, less well known are homeowner association (HOA) disputes that can be far more troublesome and often involve legal assistance from a real estate or HOA attorney
- [Social Media Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Personal Injury Case](https://muccilegal.com/social-media-mistakes-that-can-ruin-your-personal-injury-case/) - If you have had an accident through no fault of your own and were injured, you may be considering making a personal injury claim if you have enough evidence to show that the accident was due to negligence and could have been avoided. Personal injury claims can be challenging and you must be careful not
- [Contracts That Every Small Business Owner in Massachusetts Should Have in 2026](https://muccilegal.com/contracts-that-every-small-business-owner-in-massachusetts-should-have-in-2026/) - In Massachusetts, the opportunity to run a small business has never been better, but it will become more legally complex in 2026, particularly in relation to evolving employment laws, a stricter data-privacy outlook, more remote work provisions, and a rise in regulatory scrutiny. All of this means that deals with just a handshake and the
- [The Most Common Winter Accidents in Massachusetts — and Your Rights if Injured](https://muccilegal.com/the-most-common-winter-accidents-in-massachusetts-and-your-rights-if-injured/) - Accidents can happen at any time and anywhere, but winter brings additional risks which residents of Massachusetts should be aware of and be prepared for. The most common winter accidents are car accidents and slip and fall accidents because of the likely presence of snow and ice and the resulting slippery conditions. Some winter accidents
- [Converting a Residential Property into Mixed Use in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/converting-a-residential-property-into-mixed-use-in-massachusetts/) - For a Massachusetts property owner today, there has been a great interest in combining living space with running a business. This is because even an artist who just wants a studio at home, a physical therapist who would like to run a private practice, or a business looking to simply lower its overheads, a live/work
- [Why Every Family Business Should Have a Buy-Sell Agreement](https://muccilegal.com/why-every-family-business-should-have-a-buy-sell-agreement/) - Family businesses may be dispute free for many years or last for the life of the business without any internal disruptions, but sometimes destabilization can occur from within the family. A shareholder agreement, of which an important component is a buy-sell agreement, can help to prevent most potential concerns that could arise from within the
- [When Disaster Strikes: Legal Steps After a Major Storm or Flood in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/when-disaster-strikes-legal-steps-after-a-major-storm-or-flood-in-massachusetts/) - When a significant storm, fire, or flood strikes in Massachusetts, the main priority is safety. Once family and pets are safe and emergency responders have been contacted, the homeowner will face a fast-moving set of legal and practical steps, dealing with insurance, hiring contractors, documenting property damage, and protecting against lien and payment disputes. Below
- [Understanding Comparative Negligence in Massachusetts Personal Injury Cases](https://muccilegal.com/understanding-comparative-negligence-in-massachusetts-personal-injury-cases/) - If you have been injured in an accident in Massachusetts, whether it’s in a car accident, a slip and fall, or any other type of accident you may wonder how your own actions may affect your right to recover compensation. Massachusetts uses a legal concept called comparative negligence which helps to determine the amount of
- [The Massachusetts Estate Tax Is Changing — What Families Need to Know in 2025](https://muccilegal.com/the-massachusetts-estate-tax-is-changing-what-families-need-to-know-in-2025/) - Massachusetts is one of only 12 states across the U.S. where wealthy residents may be expected to pay both federal and state estate taxes. Both of these types of estate taxes have gone through changes this year, so if you and / or your partner own substantial assets, it is important to be aware of
- [What Happens to a Family Business in a Divorce?](https://muccilegal.com/what-happens-to-a-family-business-in-a-divorce/) - A divorce can be an emotionally stressful and difficult experience to navigate. The two most challenging tasks encountered when there is an impending divorce involve making decisions about how shared children should be cared for and how shared, i.e. marital, finances are to be distributed. If the couple also has a family owned business at
- [Can a Government Agency Take Your Land? Eminent Domain in Massachusetts Explained](https://muccilegal.com/can-a-government-agency-take-your-land-eminent-domain-in-massachusetts-explained/) - Homeowners understandably believe that owning their home gives them the right to the ownership of their property, i.e. they are the ones who determine when and to whom they would sell their home if they wished to do so. What may not be understood is that there is an exception to that general rule, which
- [Legal Fallout After the Fall River Assisted-Living Fire](https://muccilegal.com/legal-fallout-after-the-fall-river-assisted-living-fire/) - The tragic fire at the Gabriel House assisted-living center in Fall River on July 13/14 this year was the state’s worst fire in such a facility for at least 40 years. Although preliminary investigations have concluded that the cause of the fire was not malicious, the severity of the fire and the number of related fatalities
- [Should You Place Your Home in a Trust in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/should-you-place-your-home-in-a-trust-in-massachusetts/) - When you have already paid off your home, and are not considering selling it for the remainder of your life, you may be wondering whether there are any advantages of placing your home into a trust. If your plan is to pass your home on to family members or other potential beneficiaries, what is called
- [How Massachusetts’ New Junk-Fee Rules Will Affect Consumers and Small Businesses](https://muccilegal.com/how-massachusetts-new-junk-fee-rules-will-affect-consumers-and-small-businesses/) - A strengthening of the Massachusetts’ Consumer Protection Act will affect both consumers and small businesses from September 2 this year. This article explains how the new regulations clarify how the total cost of goods and services provided by businesses within the state must be clearly displayed to potential consumers before they commit to paying for
- [Broker Fee Ban for Renters in Massachusetts: What is it and are There Any Pitfalls?](https://muccilegal.com/broker-fee-ban-for-renters-in-massachusetts-what-is-it-and-are-there-any-pitfalls/) - Boston is one of the nation’s most expensive cities for renters, with a median rent of around $3,600 a month, so it’s no wonder that renters have welcomed the new broker fee ban law that came into effect on August 1st this year. So what is this broker fee ban, how does it really affect
- [Pedestrian Accidents in Massachusetts: Determining Liability and  Knowing What to Do After an Injury](https://muccilegal.com/pedestrian-accidents-in-massachusetts-determining-liability-and-knowing-what-to-do-after-an-injury/) - Pedestrian injuries and fatalities, mostly as a result of being hit by a motorized vehicle, remain stubbornly high in Massachusetts. Around 60 to 70 pedestrians die every year and around 1600 are injured. These numbers have hardly changed over the last two decades. Nationwide, the risks of being a pedestrian are certainly not any better.
- [Quitclaim Deeds vs. Warranty Deeds in Massachusetts - What’s the Difference?](https://muccilegal.com/quitclaim-deeds-vs-warranty-deeds-in-massachusetts-whats-the-difference/) - Whether you are contemplating selling or purchasing a property in Massachusetts for the first time, it can help to learn about the difference between the main types of deeds available in the state. This article aims to provide information about warranty and quitclaim deeds, the pros and cons of each type and which type you
- [Why You Need an Attorney During the Closing of a Real Estate Transaction in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/why-you-need-an-attorney-during-the-closing-of-a-real-estate-transaction-in-massachusetts/) - If you are about to enter a real estate transaction in Massachusetts and this is the first time you have purchased property in this state, take note that an attorney will be necessary to be present at the closing of the transaction. This is fairly unique to Massachusetts as it is one of the few
- [Is Your Home in a Trust or Just in Your Name? Why It Matters Legally in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/is-your-home-in-a-trust-or-just-in-your-name-why-it-matters-legally-in-massachusetts/) - Home ownership brings with it many responsibilities and decisions to make. If you do not intend selling your home in the near future and are likely to include the home as part of the assets that you will leave to your family or other beneficiaries when you die, then you may wish to consider the
- [Can You Legally Block a Shared Driveway? Understanding Easements in MA](https://muccilegal.com/can-you-legally-block-a-shared-driveway-understanding-easements-in-ma/) - Do you have a shared driveway with a neighbor and have been having problems resolving the use of it? Have you recently purchased a home or other building that has a shared driveway with a neighbor, perhaps not realizing that the driveway you need to use was shared? Are you considering purchasing somewhere where you
- [Are Security or Surveillance Cameras a Legal Risk in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/are-security-or-surveillance-cameras-a-legal-risk-in-massachusetts/) - Individual homeowners, landlords, businesses and government departments all have certain legal rights to install security cameras on their property, but Massachusetts has strict privacy rules that restrict the use of security cameras. Improper use may be an offense under state law, so if you are considering installing security cameras on your own property, make sure
- [Accessory Dwelling Units Are Now Permitted Statewide in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/accessory-dwelling-units-are-now-permitted-statewide-in-massachusetts/) - In February this year, Massachusetts joined another dozen or so states in making it permissible for home owners to have an accessory dwelling unit or ADU on their residential lot. The additional legal requirement is part of an ongoing development of the state’s Affordable Homes Act and is hoped to help alleviate a housing crisis
- [Top 5 Reasons Massachusetts Businesses Face Litigation—and How to Avoid Them](https://muccilegal.com/top-5-reasons-massachusetts-businesses-face-litigation-and-how-to-avoid-them/) - Running a business in Massachusetts, whether it’s a startup in Cambridge, a family-owned retail store in Worcester, or even a manufacturing business in Springfield, there is always a mix of opportunity and risk to be considered. One of the most likely threats to any business is the risk of litigation taking place. A business lawsuit
- [When Contractors Get It Wrong: Your Legal Options After a Construction Mistake in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/when-contractors-get-it-wrong-your-legal-options-after-a-construction-mistake-in-massachusetts/) - A construction project, whether it is commercial or residential, involves a significant investment of money, time and trust. A property owner chooses to hire a contractor with the expectation that the work requested will be done well, by any set deadlines as well as following all safety and legal standards. Unfortunately, not all construction projects
- [Coercive Control is Now Recognized in Massachusetts Restraining Orders](https://muccilegal.com/coercive-control-is-now-recognized-in-massachusetts-restraining-orders/) - Massachusetts last year joined six other U.S. states in redefining what is considered domestic violence and extending evidence that can be used to enforce restraining orders against a domestic violence abuser. Three important additions in the new law to the state’s existing domestic violence laws now mean that victims who are not solely the target
- [Engagement Rings and Legal Ownership: Massachusetts Shifts to No-Fault Returns](https://muccilegal.com/engagement-rings-and-legal-ownership-massachusetts-shifts-to-no-fault-returns/) - Massachusetts joined the majority of U.S. states in November 2024 in making it compulsory for engagement rings to be returned to the donor in most cases on a no-fault basis if the marriage doesn’t go ahead. Engagement ring return rules vary somewhat from one state to another and the reasoning behind why the rules are
- [What to Do After a Car Accident in Massachusetts: Legal Steps to Protect Yourself](https://muccilegal.com/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-in-massachusetts-legal-steps-to-protect-yourself/) - A car accident can happen at any time on Massachusetts roads and highways. Even if you are the most careful, defensive driver, your car could still be hit and you, and any passengers in your car, could be injured. Speeding, fatigue, distracted driving, intoxication and drug use, aggressive driving and overconfidence when maneuvering in heavy
- [What Does the “Best Interests of the Child” Really Mean in Massachusetts Courts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-does-the-best-interests-of-the-child-really-mean-in-massachusetts-courts/) - The Probate and Family Law Court only intervenes and makes decisions for divorcing parents about child custody as a last resort in Massachusetts. The court prefers that parents come to a workable agreement themselves and include their proposed arrangements in a separation agreement. However, realistically, making decisions which both parents can agree to about the
- [How State and Federal Employment & Taxation Laws Apply to Small Businesses in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/how-state-and-federal-employment-taxation-laws-apply-to-small-businesses-in-massachusetts/) - Small businesses operating in Massachusetts are subject to a number of both state and federal laws that affect the way their businesses are structured, how taxes are paid and what employment laws they must comply with amongst other legal obligations. The subject of legal compliance for small businesses is a huge one and only the
- [Ticket Sales Transparency Legislation in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/ticket-sales-transparency-legislation-in-massachusetts/) - Ticket sales for popular live events like concerts and sports performances have often been associated with frustrating and annoying issues, such as inflated prices for tickets bought in bulk by ticket touts and scalpers as well as a lack of transparency in the actual price breakdown of the ticket itself as advertised by the official
- [Why PFAS Used in Firefighting Gear in Massachusetts Will be Banned From 2027](https://muccilegal.com/why-pfas-used-in-firefighting-gear-in-massachusetts-will-be-banned-from-2027/) - Massachusetts has joined Connecticut in becoming the first two states in the U.S. to ban the use of PFAS in the manufacture of firefighters’ protective clothing. The decision to ban the use of these chemicals was made last year, but the ban does not come into effect until 1st January 2027. But what are PFAS
- [Sealing Eviction Records: What Tenants and Landlords Need to Know](https://muccilegal.com/sealing-eviction-records-what-tenants-and-landlords-need-to-know/) - Renters will soon be able to have the opportunity to have their eviction records sealed as part of changes included in the state’s Affordable Homes Act, which comes into effect on 3rd May 2025. 270 days after the Act comes into effect, renters who have been evicted at some time in the past, or who
- [What is the Massachusetts' New Salary Range Transparency Act?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-the-massachusetts-new-salary-range-transparency-act/) - Massachusetts’ new Salary Range Transparency Act (H.4890) becomes effective on October 29th later this year, but what is it and how will the changes that the law will bring about affect employees and employers? This article aims to provide some answers to these questions. The Salary Range Act seeks to extend the MA state’s Equal
- [Understanding the Good Samaritan Law in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/understanding-the-good-samaritan-law-in-massachusetts/) - Most people have an idea of what a “Good Samaritan” is, even if they have never come across the Biblical reference which was the origin of the term. In a non-legal sense, a Good Samaritan is generally recognized as someone who does someone a good turn even when they don’t know them. A typical example
- [How to Protect Your Business from Liability with Proper Contracts](https://muccilegal.com/how-to-protect-your-business-from-liability-with-proper-contracts/) - All new businesses need a well thought out plan. It only seems logical to devise a suitable business plan before registering a new business rather than rush into the business before devising a plan. Part of any new business plan should take into consideration what contracts will be needed. There is a variety of contracts
- [Pipe Bursting Liability: What You Need to Know When Damage Spreads to Neighboring Properties in MA](https://muccilegal.com/pipe-bursting-liability-what-you-need-to-know-when-damage-spreads-to-neighboring-properties-in-ma/) - When water pipes burst, the damage done can be extensive, especially if the location of the burst pipes are not discovered quickly. Burst pipe damage doesn’t just affect the occupants of the building where the pipes have burst or closest to where the pipes burst. It can have an effect on neighboring buildings and their
- [Who is Liable for Property Damage During a Construction Project in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/who-is-liable-for-property-damage-during-a-construction-project-in-massachusetts/) - Accidents are always waiting to happen on a construction site. Fortunately, they aren’t common, but if they do occur and there has been damage to the landowner’s property, the first question that is likely to be asked is “Who is liable for the cost of the repairs needed to be done?” The answer isn’t quite
- [The Risks to Homeowners of a Contractor Not Pulling Permits in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/the-risks-to-homeowners-of-a-contractor-not-pulling-permits-in-massachusetts/) - Why building permits are so important in Massachusetts Building permits are required for a lot of the work that might be done on homes in Massachusetts. For non-state owned buildings, the local municipality where the building is located is responsible for issuing permits. If you own your own home and intend using building contractors to
- [How to Request Speed Bumps in Massachusetts: A Step-by-Step Guide to Safer Streets](https://muccilegal.com/how-to-request-speed-bumps-in-massachusetts-a-step-by-step-guide-to-safer-streets/) - Communities that have genuine concerns about the speed that traffic is moving in their immediate neighborhood have ways in which they can bring their concerns to the relevant municipal authority for attention. There is a variety of tried and tested calming measures that can be implemented relatively rapidly to help reduce traffic speeds and make
- [Estate Planning for Small Business Owners in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/estate-planning-for-small-business-owners-in-massachusetts/) - It is important for small business owners just as much as it is for individuals to plan for what happens to their assets when they die or become incapacitated. Estate planning for small business owners can be doubly challenging because there is often an overlap between the assets of the business as well as the
- [What Massachusetts Small Businesses Should Know About Insurance Needs](https://muccilegal.com/what-massachusetts-small-businesses-should-know-about-insurance-needs/) - One of the most important items on the list of what has to be done when a small business starts up is to consider the need for business insurance. Every small business, of course, is unique and this means that its insurance needs must be individualized to meet that business’s requirements, too. Small businesses range
- [Managing Legal Risks and Contractual Obligations Involved in Construction Delays in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/managing-legal-risks-and-contractual-obligations-involved-in-construction-delays-in-massachusetts/) - Timelines and time limits in construction contracts, especially large ones that may take months or years to complete, can be a source of frustration, financial setbacks and legal problems if there are delays. The larger the contract and the longer it was projected to be completed, the greater the likelihood of delays and disruptions. Owners,
- [Water Pipe Damage Disputes in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/water-pipe-damage-disputes-in-massachusetts/) - When a water pipe bursts through corrosion, old age, excess pressure or the accidental misuse of machinery, the results can be devastating and very expensive. It’s not the cost of replacing the plumbing that makes these sorts of dramas so expensive, but the damage that flooding can do to people’s property and possessions and the
- [Alcohol Liability Laws in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/alcohol-liability-laws-in-massachusetts/) - Most people understand and accept that there are strict rules about consuming alcohol and what might happen if an intoxicated person drives, takes control of a boat, or behaves unreasonably in public. In Massachusetts, it is illegal to consume alcohol if you are under 21, drive or operate a boat with a blood alcohol greater
- [Who is Responsible for Fallen Trees in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/who-is-responsible-for-fallen-trees-in-massachusetts/) - Whether you have trees growing in your own property, or your neighbors have trees close to your boundary, or there are trees in a public space close to your own home, there is always potential for damage from falling trees or branches. As a property owner it is important to know the extent of Massachusetts
- [Impact of New Child Support Guidelines in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/impact-of-new-child-support-guidelines-in-massachusetts/) - What is child support? In all U.S. states, including Massachusetts, there is provision under state law to protect the welfare of the joint children of a couple who have separated and are no longer living together. In Massachusetts, it doesn’t matter whether a couple were married when they divorced or whether they were cohabiting (i.e.
- [What are the Impacts of the Alimony Reform Act in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-are-the-impacts-of-the-alimony-reform-act-in-massachusetts/) - Massachusetts law has long recognized the need for alimony when a couple divorces if one spouse is likely to earn much less than the other. Alimony, also called spousal support, is aimed at helping to support the less well off spouse after divorce for a period the length of which depends on how long there
- [What is the Role of OSHA in Construction Law in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-the-role-of-osha-in-construction-law-in-massachusetts/) - Construction sites have a number of risks to workers as well as visitors. Accidents from falling debris, faulty equipment, contact with heavy machinery and falls from steep heights all pose risks which must be minimized by construction site managers and operators. The construction industry is regulated by both state and federal agencies and there are
- [The Importance of Well-Drafted Contracts in Avoiding Litigation in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/the-importance-of-well-drafted-contracts-in-avoiding-litigation-in-massachusetts/) - When embarking on just about anything important, choosing what to study and where to study it, starting a family, having a vacation or an adventure, starting a business, you are much more likely to have a successful outcome if you do thorough, well researched planning beforehand. The same goes for businesses that agree to do
- [What are the Options for Small Businesses When they are at Risk of Default in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-are-the-options-for-small-businesses-when-they-are-at-risk-of-default-in-massachusetts/) - Managing a thriving small business in Massachusetts can be harder than starting it. If a loan was negotiated to get the business going, repayments may be hard to make at times. It’s not unusual for small businesses to experience volatility in their finances, but if it leads to a risk of a default on the
- [What is the Prompt Payment Act in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-the-prompt-payment-act-in-massachusetts/) - The Massachusetts Prompt Payment Act sets out the time periods within which payment for private and public construction work must be paid. The Act helps contractors and sub-contractors have certainty about payment for work completed and facilitates cash flow for these projects. The Prompt Pay Act divides the time limits within which payment must be
- [Steps Needed to Needed to Open a Small Business in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/steps-needed-to-needed-to-open-a-small-business-in-massachusetts/) - Starting a small business in Massachusetts is a sequential process. The steps involved are well established and can be researched easily on the Internet. Before any of these steps are taken, and permits and licenses sought, the would-be small business owner or owners need to plan their business model thoroughly. No amount of permit and
- [Intellectual Property (IP) Disputes in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/intellectual-property-ip-disputes-in-massachusetts/) - Everyone is aware that laws exist to protect the property of individuals, businesses and other organizations. If someone steals your car, or breaks into your home taking computers and jewelry, then they are breaking the law and could end up with prison sentences and other penalties if caught and convicted. All types of property are
- [Understanding Guardianship & Conservatorship in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/understanding-guardianship-conservatorship-in-massachusetts/) - When someone becomes incapable of looking after their health and other aspects of their own life, such as their estate and finances, the Massachusetts Probate and Family court may appoint a responsible person or persons to look after their needs. This typically may happen if the person who has become incapacitated did not arrange for
- [How the Small Claims Court Works in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/how-the-small-claims-court-works-in-massachusetts/) - If you believe you have suffered a financial loss due to someone else’s actions, and have tried to negotiate compensation or payment directly with no success, you may be able to resolve your complaint through the civil court by filing a small claim. The small claims court will hear claims of $7,000 or less, although
- [Breaches of Fiduciary Duty in Massachusetts – What’s Involved?](https://muccilegal.com/breaches-of-fiduciary-duty-in-massachusetts-whats-involved/) - If you have a fiduciary duty to others or you believe you have suffered from a breach of fiduciary duties you need to know the legal implications. In most cases, you will find that a Massachusetts attorney with an understanding of fiduciary duty rights can help you with any consequences of a breach of fiduciary
- [The Standard Rules of Alimony in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/the-standard-rules-of-alimony-in-massachusetts/) - Alimony, also called spousal support, is a regular payment made after divorce by one ex spouse to the other. Normally, alimony is paid by the higher earning of the two spouses. The type of alimony that is paid, the period that it lasts and other factors are determined by standard rules applied by a Family
- [Navigating the Building Permit Process in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/navigating-the-building-permit-process-in-massachusetts/) - Any new building construction, demolition, repair or modifications to existing structures must have a building permit submitted and approved before work can start. It can be challenging navigating the permit process in Massachusetts and it is important to be aware of what is required before an application is attempted. All building permit processes involve a
- [Breach of Contract in Massachusetts and Remedies That Can be Pursued](https://muccilegal.com/breach-of-contract-in-massachusetts-and-remedies-that-can-be-pursued/) - A breach of contract is said to have taken place when a business contract between two parties has not been fulfilled because one or other of the two parties has failed to satisfy their side of the contract and the other party has suffered some sort of damages. The party that has suffered from the
- [Post Divorce Modifications to Child Custody Arrangements](https://muccilegal.com/post-divorce-modifications-to-child-custody-arrangements/) - When married couples separate or get divorced, there can be huge challenges deciding what to do about shared children. The vast majority of divorcing couples wants the best for their children, but they may disagree how that can be achieved. Should the two spouses share the physical arrangements between them after they separate? How can
- [The Legal Requirements for Ensuring Accessibility in Construction Projects in MA](https://muccilegal.com/the-legal-requirements-for-ensuring-accessibility-in-construction-projects-in-ma/) - Accessibility in construction projects is a legal requirement in Massachusetts. Both state and federal legislation ensures that any new buildings and facilities they provide, or modifications to existing buildings, are accessible to all, regardless of their physical disability. Ensuring accessibility means setting standards for things like bathrooms, doorways, parking spaces, ramps and signage so that
- [Massachusetts Wage Garnishment Laws](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-wage-garnishment-laws/) - Wage garnishment is the withholding of an amount of money from a debtor’s paycheck. The garnishing is done by the employer and the agreed amount is paid directly by the employer to the creditor who has been given the right to order the garnishment. There are limits to wage garnishment in Massachusetts. Most creditors cannot
- [What If My Spouse Refuses to Sign the Divorce Papers?](https://muccilegal.com/what-if-my-spouse-refuses-to-sign-the-divorce-papers/) - Divorces are easier and cheaper if both spouses cooperate and work out a sensible and workable settlement agreement together. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always happen. Every marriage is unique and the break-up of a marriage is unique, too. If one spouse wants a divorce and the other doesn’t, or one spouse doesn’t agree with the other
- [What is the Cooling off Period in a Massachusetts Divorce?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-the-cooling-off-period-in-a-massachusetts-divorce/) - The cooling off period, also called the waiting period, or “nisi” period, is the time between the date a judge or court has agreed that you can have a divorce and actually having the divorce finalized. The length of the cooling off period depends on the type of divorce involved. It is either 90 or
- [Massachusetts Lemon Laws](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-lemon-laws/) - Massachusetts, like other U.S. states, has its own specific Lemon Laws that give purchasers of defective cars certain legal rights as consumers. Calling a defective car a “lemon” is something that has been around for at least the last 100 years. The term “lemon” presumably derives from the sour taste in the mouth that might
- [Auto Insurance in Massachusetts and the No-Fault Law](https://muccilegal.com/auto-insurance-in-massachusetts-and-the-no-fault-law/) - You are more likely to have an auto accident in Massachusetts than any other type of accident. Whether you, or someone else, were at fault the reality is that auto accidents can become very expensive without insurance. Every state in the U.S. has compulsory auto insurance laws, including Massachusetts. If you drive a vehicle in
- [What are the Bills That Might Become Law in Massachusetts in 2024?](https://muccilegal.com/what-are-the-bills-that-might-become-law-in-massachusetts-in-2024/) - 2024 is the second and final year of the current two year legislative session. Several bills that have either gone through their first readings or have yet to be heard are expected to be voted on later next year. Some, if not all of these bills, may eventually become law. Some of the more notable
- [Changes to Massachusetts Landlord-Tenant Laws during 2023](https://muccilegal.com/changes-to-massachusetts-landlord-tenant-laws-during-2023/) - The Massachusetts Attorney General’s office (AGO) earlier this year released its annual report on consumer complaints. For the first time, the report had more complaints concerning rental housing in the state than complaints against used car dealers. The difference wasn’t very much, just 9 more complaints received about mostly unsatisfactory sanitary conditions in rental housing,
- [Could a 4 Day Working Week ‘Work’ in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/could-a-4-day-working-week-work-in-massachusetts/) - Momentum is building in support of a 4 day working week pilot program in Massachusetts. If a bill that will be debated in the state legislature (Bill H.3849) is passed, a two year program called the Massachusetts Smart Work Week Pilot could lead to the first reduction in the normal working week in the state
- [When Should You Review Your Custody Agreement?](https://muccilegal.com/when-should-you-review-your-custody-agreement/) - Child custody arrangements often pose some of the most challenging decisions that any separating couple has to make when navigating a divorce. Parents who are in the process of going through a divorce can either cooperate on devising their own custody arrangements or petition the Probate and Family Law Court to come up with a
- [What is a Whistleblower and How Are They Protected in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-a-whistleblower-and-how-are-they-protected-in-massachusetts/) - A whistleblower is someone who reports incorrect, unethical or illegal activity in any private or public agency, organization or business. Whistleblowers take a risk that their activity may result in retaliation by the entity whose activity they are reporting. Both state and federal laws exist to protect genuine whistleblowers from retaliation such as being fired
- [Divorce and Real Estate in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/divorce-and-real-estate-in-massachusetts/) - The division of marital assets can be a thorny issue when contemplating a divorce, and often the thorniest issue of all is who gets the family home? After all, if the value of your home has been on the rise lately because of its location, its asset value is likely to be the most valuable
- [Grandparent Rights After a Divorce in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/grandparent-rights-after-a-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - Deaths, separations and divorces can have a huge emotional and psychological toll on the two partners in a marriage or civil partnership, as well as their children, but others are affected, too. Friends and close family, especially grandparents, may find it hard to adjust to the changes that inevitably result from these major changes in
- [Property Boundaries in Dispute in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/property-boundaries-in-dispute-in-massachusetts/) - If you are considering buying or selling a property in Massachusetts, there is a myriad of things to consider. One aspect of buying a property that is often overlooked is the property boundary. Sellers may think that they know the boundary lines well and in many cases they do. However, they may be going on
- [Legal Requirements for Opening a Restaurant in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/legal-requirements-for-opening-a-restaurant-in-massachusetts/) - Are you considering opening a food serving business such as a café or restaurant in Massachusetts? If you are, you will probably be aware that there are a number of legal requirements to take into account as well as decisions about the type of business, it’s financing and the skills you need. These legal requirements
- [Making a Complaint Against a Local Business in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/making-a-complaint-against-a-local-business-in-massachusetts/) - If you have a complaint about a local business in Massachusetts, there is an established pathway that can be followed to make a complaint and seek a resolution. Both state and federal agencies can help to investigate and seek to resolve your complaint. Failing a satisfactory resolution by government agencies you may be able to
- [Legal Issues Related to Underage Drinking in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/legal-issues-related-to-underage-drinking-in-massachusetts/) - Underage drinking in Massachusetts is treated very seriously. By “underage” it means aged under 21. In most circumstances, you cannot purchase, provide or drink alcohol in Massachusetts if you are aged under 21. That age limit doesn’t exempt older people from involvement in underage drinking. Even if you are a parent or guardian and left
- [Are Emails Considered Part of Public Records In Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/are-emails-considered-part-of-public-record-in-massachusetts/) - The short answer is ‘probably yes’ if the content of the email relates to the official business of a government agency or if the email was sent to an employee in any level of state government. It really depends on the email sender and/or recipient and content not its location. Private emails typically should not fall
- [Child Custody Arrangements Across International Borders](https://muccilegal.com/child-custody-arrangements-across-international-borders/) - When a married couple decides to divorce and they have dependent children, they must decide what will happen to their children. Child custody decisions can be some of the most contentious and difficult decisions to make on divorce. The best solution is for the couple to come to a joint agreement which covers who looks
- [Types of Child Custody in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/types-of-child-custody-in-massachusetts/) - Making decisions about how to care for dependent children on separation or divorce can be one of the most challenging and stressful experiences. Child custody decisions must be part of any separation agreement which needs to be submitted to the Probate and Family Court before a divorce petition can be approved, so it is important
- [So When Am I Actually Divorced in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/so-when-am-i-actually-divorced-in-massachusetts/) - Every state has its own rules on divorce and the divorce procedure, so if you and your spouse, or you alone, are considering getting divorced, you need to find out what those rules and procedures are before actually filing for divorce. One of the most confusing parts of the divorce process is the stage called
- [The Role of a Prosecutor in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/the-role-of-a-prosecutor-in-massachusetts/) - Prosecutors are attorneys who have the role of representing the government in criminal cases. In Massachusetts, chief prosecutors are known as district attorneys (D.A.s), while each district attorney will also have assistant district attorneys working in his or her office. In Massachusetts, there are 11 district attorneys, who are elected by voters. These D.A.s have
- [Post-Divorce Agreement Modifications in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/post-divorce-agreement-modifications-in-massachusetts/) - Going through a divorce can be a stressful and challenging process. If you have joint children with your spouse and have been married for quite some time, divorce agreements can take quite a long time to make. Divorce agreements can be made between you and your spouse with minimum input from anyone else or you
- [What is the Minimum Wage Requirement in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-the-minimum-wage-requirement-in-massachusetts/) - Waged employees must be paid a minimum hourly wage in every state in the U.S. Minimum wage requirements also include minimum rates for tipped employees and establish what employees should be paid if they work overtime. Minimum wage rates are set by both federal and state governments. Employers must pay the higher of the two
- [The Role of Home Inspection in Real Estate in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/the-role-of-home-inspection-in-real-estate-in-massachusetts/) - There is no law or regulation in Massachusetts which requires home owners to have their homes inspected before putting them on the market and no law or rule which requires prospective buyers to have a home inspection before sealing a deal on buying a property. It is totally up to the buyer to organize a
- [Property Division:  How are Assets are Divided in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/property-division-how-are-assets-are-divided-in-massachusetts/) - If you are going through a divorce, there are two particularly difficult decisions to be made by you and your spouse. If you have children who are still dependent on you, you have to think who they are going to live with, how each of you can have quality time with them and who pays
- [Residency Requirements in Massachusetts When You File for a Divorce](https://muccilegal.com/residency-requirements-in-massachusetts-when-you-file-for-a-divorce/) - Most states have some kind of residency rule that restricts a couple from filing for divorce if they haven’t spent enough time in the state. In fact, there are only three states, i.e. Alaska, South Dakota and Washington, that don’t have some kind of residency minimum period for divorce. In Massachusetts, the rule for most
- [What is the Global Warming Solutions Act in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-the-global-warming-solutions-act-in-massachusetts/) - Massachusetts was one of the first states in the U.S. to enact climate change regulations. The state government enacted the Global Warming Solutions Act (GWSA) in 2008, at a time when a consensus about the urgent need to rapidly reduce global warming causing emissions was still gaining legitimacy. The state government has responded to pressure
- [Zoning Regulations and the Zoning Board of Appeal in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/zoning-regulations-and-the-zoning-board-of-appeal-in-massachusetts/) - All municipalities in Massachusetts use zoning regulations to restrict the use of property within their respective jurisdictions. This means that there are no uniform state rules about zoning, as each town, city, county, or other type of municipality, has its own zoning regulations tailored to the needs of that area. Zoning regulations are not always
- [What Type of Home Insurance Do You Need When You Buy a House In Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-type-of-home-insurance-do-you-need-when-you-buy-a-house-in-massachusetts/) - If you are considering buying a house in Massachusetts, you will certainly need to think about taking out home insurance cover for it. Your new home will probably be the largest asset you will own, so losing it to a fire, storm, even if only part of it is damaged, could set you back financially
- [What is the Process to Get an Uncontested Divorce in MA?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-the-process-to-get-an-uncontested-divorce-in-ma/) - Divorces can be messy and stressful experiences, especially if you and your spouse cannot come to an agreement on whether both of you want a divorce, how your assets should be divided once the divorce is finalized and how to organize looking after any dependent children. This sort of divorce is a contested divorce and
- [Benefits and Drawbacks of Going Through Probate in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/benefits-and-drawbacks-of-going-through-probate-in-massachusetts/) - What is meant by probate in Massachusetts? Probate is the legal process that takes place after someone dies in which that person’s assets are paid out to beneficiaries according to the deceased person’s will or through intestacy rules if there is no will. Debts and taxes are also paid to creditors and government entities before
- [Real Estate Law in Massachusetts: What Is an Affidavit Of Title?](https://muccilegal.com/real-estate-law-in-massachusetts-what-is-an-affidavit-of-title/) - Imagine buying a property somewhere in Massachusetts and finding out that the property didn’t actually belong to the person who sold it to you, or you find out that the property was tied up in several debts still outstanding. This doesn’t, or shouldn’t happen, of course, because no property should change hands in Massachusetts before
- [Real Estate Law in MA: What is an Irrevocable Trust Deed?](https://muccilegal.com/real-estate-law-in-ma-what-is-an-irrevocable-trust-deed/) - The older most people are, the more likely they are to be wealthier than when they were young. Owning more wealth has its own problems, one of which is the worry about what to do with any wealth when you pass away. A real estate attorney can help you to prepare an estate plan that
- [Is a Petition for Separation Required In a Divorce In Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/is-a-petition-for-separation-required-in-a-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - The difference between a divorce and a separation In Massachusetts, a divorce legally ends a marriage. A separation is not a divorce, so if two spouses decide to separate and live separate lives, they still remain married. When one or both spouses file a petition for a divorce, there must be a reason, or “grounds”,
- [Jury Service in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/jury-service-in-massachusetts/) - Just about any adult who is on the electoral roll in Massachusetts could be picked at random for jury duty in the state, so if this has happened to you and you are unsure what it means, read on below. Who are jurors? Jurors are people from all walks of life who have been randomly
- [Difference Between Joint Legal and Joint Physical Child Custody in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/difference-between-joint-legal-and-joint-physical-child-custody-in-massachusetts/) - Separation or divorce can be a challenging and stressful experience and if there are shared children, plans about how to care for them can be some of the most difficult decisions to make. If the two parents can come to a mutually agreed plan about child custody, then this is by far the best way
- [Required Home Disclosures When Selling A Property in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/required-home-disclosures-when-selling-property-in-massachusetts/) - When selling your property in Massachusetts, you need to be aware that there are disclosures that are a legal requirement in the state. These disclosure requirements are relatively minor compared to some other states, but if you ignore the requirements or are unaware that you need to make the disclosures whether a potential buyer asks
- [Postnuptial Agreements in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/postnuptial-agreements-in-massachusetts/) - Many people are aware of premarital contracts such as prenuptial agreements (prenups) and what they are designed to do. Prenups clarify financial arrangements before a couple gets married so that if there is a breakdown in the marriage subsequently and a divorce is pending, division of assets become less problematic. A prenup is designed to
- [New Legislation for the New Year in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/new-legislation-for-the-new-year-in-massachusetts/) - Two new pieces of legislation have come into effect in Massachusetts since the start of the New Year. They may not be about laws that you have ever heard of, or even realized that you may have already had a vote on, but directly or indirectly they could affect you in some way or another.
- [What is Meant by Grandfathering in Massachusetts Zoning Laws?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-meant-by-grandfathering-in-massachusetts-zoning-laws/) - If you own a property in Massachusetts, you can’t do whatever you want with it. The state’s zoning laws and by-laws outline the basic parameters for buildings within each zone. For example, in one particular area, the zone may be designated as residential, while in another, it may be commercial, industrial or open space. Zoning
- [What is Meant by a Declaration of Homestead in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-meant-by-a-declaration-of-homestead-in-massachusetts/) - By declaring your home as a homestead in Massachusetts, you can protect the equity in your home from some creditors if they try to force a sale of your home in an attempt to settle a debt. Filing a declaration of homestead is relatively easy, but you should know what the rules are around homestead
- [What are Shareholders Agreements in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-are-shareholders-agreements-in-massachusetts/) - Shareholders agreements are an important part of any business, big or small, that has more than one shareholder. Shareholders agreements exist to establish the rights and responsibilities of shareholders in the business. They are not compulsory in Massachusetts, but are highly advisable whenever a new business is set up to avoid contradictions, confusion, disagreements and
- [What are the Types of Tenancy in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-are-the-types-of-tenancy-in-massachusetts/) - Around 35% of Massachusetts residents rent somewhere to live. This figure is about average for the whole of the United States, although it hides differences based on age, socio-economic group and location. For example, older or retired people are more likely to have bought their own home, but for those who are aged 30 or
- [What happens during the Discovery Stage of a Lawsuit?](https://muccilegal.com/what-does-it-mean-by-the-discovery-stage-of-a-lawsuit/) - Lawsuits are civil actions taken by one party against another because of a perceived wrong against them. Many civil actions are settled without having to use a court, i.e. without having to file a lawsuit, but when the case against the defendant is strong and there seems no other way forward, a lawsuit may be
- [Restraining Orders in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/restraining-orders-in-massachusetts/) - What are restraining orders? Restraining orders, also called abuse protection orders in Massachusetts, are court orders that are aimed at preventing someone from potentially harming, actually harming, or harassing someone who may or may not be in their family. Restraining orders are typically imposed for a limited time, but can be extended indefinitely and can
- [Alimony Law in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/alimony-law-in-massachusetts/) - Alimony, also called spousal support, is a regular payment made by the better off spouse after a divorce to the less better off one. Not all divorces result in alimony being paid out. In some ways, the payment itself is a throwback to times past when many more marriages consisted of a single breadwinner (usually
- [What is the Trial Court Community Service Program in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-the-trial-court-community-service-program-in-massachusetts/) - Community service programs that have been ordered by courts are one possible form of punishment available when an offender has been convicted of a crime that is not very serious. Such programs are thought to have benefits for both the community and the offender in the long term. Massachusetts, like most states across the U.S.,
- [How Long Do You Have to Be Married In Massachusetts to Get Half?](https://muccilegal.com/how-long-do-you-have-to-be-married-in-massachusetts-to-get-half/) - If you have heard that the assets of you and your spouse could be split 50/50 by a Massachusetts court, then you are only partly correct. Of the 50 states, only 9 of them are what are called community property states. In these states (which include Washington, California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Idaho, Louisiana, Texas
- [Debt Collection Laws in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/debt-collection-laws-in-massachusetts/) - If you are in debt to an individual, business, or any other organization and are experiencing pressure to pay your debt or are facing a lawsuit you should make yourself aware of Massachusetts debt collection laws. These provide protection against unfair or illegal treatment by debt collectors. Unfortunately, all too often, debt collection agencies or
- [What’s the Difference Between DUI, DWI and OUI in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/whats-the-difference-between-dui-dwi-and-oui-in-massachusetts/) - In Massachusetts, the abbreviations DUI and OUI basically refer to the same thing and that is operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. OUI stands for “Operating Under the Influence” and it is the preferred term for the criminal charges related to drunk or impaired driving, not only in the state
- [Non-Compete and Trade Restraint Clauses under Massachusetts Law](https://muccilegal.com/non-compete-and-trade-restraint-clauses-under-massachusetts-law/) - “Thou shall NOT...” Maybe not exactly couched in old English, but your new or old employment contract may contain serious non-compete or trade restraint clauses that you need to beware of. Unsurprisingly, employees hardly read or understand the full weight of their contract before signing. Understandably, the focus is always on the net income and
- [5 Things Testators and Executors Should Never Do in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/5-things-testators-and-executors-should-never-do-in-massachusetts/) - Estate planning in Massachusetts requires knowledge and precision – and this means that knowing what to do is equally important as knowing what NOT to do. The law heavily regulates the subjects of Wills and estate administration. Since the goal of making a Will is to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your
- [What is an Intentional Tort in Tort Law?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-an-intentional-tort-in-tort-law/) - If you have been harmed in any way by someone else, whether they intended to harm you or not, you may have been the victim of what is called in Massachusetts law a “tort”. It is important to know something about torts if you have been hurt in any way by someone else and more
- [False Allegations Made in a Divorce in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/false-allegations-made-in-a-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - Deciding child custody arrangements before a divorce can be frustrating when the two parents disagree about how they should be made. If the parents cannot come to a mutually acceptable decision about child custody themselves, or with the help of a counselor and/or attorney, then the Probate and Family Court can make the decision for
- [Making a Valid Will and Three Estate Planning Tools in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/making-a-valid-will-and-three-estate-planning-tools-in-massachusetts/) - There is only one thing more important than making a Will in Massachusetts - it is making a valid Will. There are different sets of legal requirements for a Will to be valid in Massachusetts and they include: Capacity (such as age, soundness of mind, the appointment of executors or trustees) Form (i.e., specifications on
- [Unmarried Parents vs Married Parents Rights to Custody in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/unmarried-parents-vs-married-parents-rights-to-custody-in-massachusetts/) - Separating from a spouse or partner when you have children who are not yet old enough to look after themselves is often an anxious and challenging experience. In Massachusetts, there is a clear distinction between the rights of married couples who are going through a divorce and the rights of unmarried couples who are separating.
- [Modifications to Alimony Payments in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/modifications-to-alimony-payments-in-massachusetts/) - Several circumstances may require a former spouse to request a modification to an alimony order. Some of them include: the reduction or cessation of the income of the paying spouse (e.g., economic difficulties or loss of job not deliberately caused by the paying spouse) remarriage or cohabitation of the recipient spouse for a continuous period
- [Is Your Employer Allowed to Pay You Late in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/is-your-employer-allowed-to-pay-you-late-in-massachusetts/) - The short answer to this important question is “No". However, the more detailed answer is more complex. Most employees in Massachusetts are employed in what is called “at-will” employment. This means that employers can sack an employee whenever they want for almost any reason. The same right applies to employees who can terminate their employment
- [Motion for a New Trial in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/motion-for-a-new-trial-in-massachusetts/) - If someone has been convicted of a criminal offense in Massachusetts there are certain limited grounds for moving a motion for a new trial. This can be done at any time after the conviction has been determined by trial. There are two principal categories of reasons why a motion for a new trial in Massachusetts
- [Deciding Pet Custody in a Divorce Case in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/deciding-pet-custody-in-a-divorce-case-in-massachusetts/) - Parting with your spouse may be very painful or good riddance, but never with your innocent pet. For couples who have both developed a deep emotional connection with their pet, the subject can be quite touchy considering the need not only to restart your love life with a human but with another pet. The process
- [Common Residential Home After-Purchase Problems in MA](https://muccilegal.com/common-residential-home-after-purchase-problems-in-ma/) - How do you know whether a home you buy not have any major defects, apart from what the seller has already stated before the sale? The answer is to engage a competent professional inspector who assesses the state of the home and provides a realistic valuation as well as warns of any possible after-purchase problems.
- [Claims for Vehicle Accident Victims in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/claims-for-vehicle-accident-victims-in-massachusetts/) - A report by the Centre for Disease Control (US) reveals that one out of every five people dies as a result of distracted driving. In a similar worrisome trend, Massachusetts Highway Safety Division recorded the highest number of car accident deaths in 2021 since 2009. These statistics are pointers to why you need an
- [What Does Self-Employed Business Insurance Cover in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-does-self-employed-business-insurance-cover-in-massachusetts/) - If you are planning to start a new business, it can be an exciting time. Being self-employed brings numerous advantages over having a regular job and an employer who dictates everything you do. Self-employment brings the possibility of earning as much money as your business is worth, rather than being restricted to a set wage
- [How Divorce Affects Trusts in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/how-divorce-affects-trusts-in-massachusetts/) - Most couples arrange their financial affairs so that in the event that one of them dies prematurely, the other spouse is the major or only beneficiary. Shared children may change the arrangements that spouses make so that children are taken care of if one or the other spouses dies. What these arrangements cannot and do
- [What is the Difference Between a Title and a Deed in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-the-difference-between-a-title-and-a-deed-in-massachusetts/) - New homeowners or those individuals and couples who are aspiring homeowners in Massachusetts are often confused about terms used in real estate and the process of purchasing and selling property. Two typically confusing terms are “title” and “deed”. This blog will help to explain just what these terms mean and what the differences are between
- [Why is it Always Important to Leave a Mediation With a Signed Agreement in MA](https://muccilegal.com/why-is-it-always-important-to-leave-a-mediation-with-a-signed-agreement-in-ma/) - Why agree to mediation? Mediation can be used in all sorts of circumstances where there is a disagreement or dispute between two parties. Mediation is rarely used for criminal cases. Examples of circumstances where mediation can be of use include: disputes between divorcing spouses about child custody, spousal support and asset distribution; after a complaint
- [Increase of Telemedicine - How are Patients Protected in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/increase-of-telemedicine-how-are-patients-protected-in-massachusetts/) - Telemedicine became an important part of health care when the Covid-19 pandemic necessitated a Public Health Emergency (PHE) in March 2019. Although the PHE was cancelled in the Commonwealth on June 15th last year (Boston doesn’t end its own PHE order until April 1st this year), it hasn’t meant a complete return to normal face
- [Does State Law Override Local Rules?](https://muccilegal.com/does-state-law-override-local-rules/) - Vaccine and mask mandates are gradually being wound down in many parts of the U.S. including here in Massachusetts, as an increased vaccination rate and the gradual reduction in the severity of the Omicron wave take hold. But who actually had the authority to issue mandates like the ones we have experienced during the pandemic?
- [Who is Liable for a Slip and Fall on a Sidewalk in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/who-is-liable-for-a-slip-and-fall-on-a-sidewalk-in-massachusetts/) - Slip and fall accidents are common in winter anywhere in the state, especially when there is plenty of snow and ice around. In fact, slip and fall accidents are the most common type of accident after car accidents. If you are walking around when the weather has been wet, snowy or icy, you should take
- [Plan Your Estate to Minimize Probate Assets](https://muccilegal.com/plan-your-estate-to-minimize-probate-assets/) - Why you should plan your estate? A surprising number of people don’t bother planning what to do about the assets they own when they pass away. Not leaving a will or other means of determining how your assets should be distributed may not concern you if you have already died, but it can be a
- [Does a DUI/DWI Stay as a Criminal Record and Can it Count as a Prior Conviction in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/does-a-dui-dwi-stay-as-a-criminal-record-and-can-it-count-as-a-prior-conviction-in-massachusetts/) - OUI/DWI/DUI: What’s the difference? If you drink too much or take certain drugs which affect your ability to drive, it could be dangerous to drive and you could hurt or even kill anyone in your vehicle or another vehicle. In every state in the country, there are clear limits to what you can drink and
- [Divorce : Filing a Counter Claim in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/divorce-filing-a-counter-claim-in-massachusetts/) - A divorce is often a messy, complicated and stressful business. Decisions have to be made about assets, child custody, child and spousal support. Ideally, these decisions are made rationally and sensibly and an agreement made which suits both parting spouses and made in the best interests of any children. Unfortunately, often the reasons why the
- [When Does the Right To a Lawyer Apply In Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/when-does-the-right-to-a-lawyer-apply-in-massachusetts/) - The only constitutional right to a lawyer in Massachusetts at present is if you have been accused of a criminal offense and you do not have enough money to pay for a lawyer yourself. The court will appoint a lawyer to defend you throughout the proceedings against you. More details of the criteria needed to
- [What Does "Under Seal" Mean?](https://muccilegal.com/what-does-under-seal-mean/) - What is a “seal?” Seals have been around for hundreds of years, but their purpose has changed a lot during that time. The term “under seal” for instance, has little in common with the main reason for using a physical seal in the past. But what actually is a seal? The use of a seal,
- [How Does Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Work in the Case of a Divorce in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/how-does-alternative-dispute-resolution-adr-work-in-the-case-of-a-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - Divorces are rarely so disputed that they end in litigation. In fact, there are several ways that a disputed divorce settlement can be resolved without the very public, stressful and expensive need to go to court. Alternative dispute resolution, or ADR for short, is a preferred alternative to litigation in Massachusetts when two separating spouses
- [Employer Rights to Electronic Monitoring in the Workspace in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/employer-rights-to-electronic-monitoring-in-the-workspace-in-massachusetts/) - Do employers in Massachusetts have the right to monitor your workspace activity? Yes, they do, as long as the activity they monitor has something to do with the business of the employer. The only exceptions are when specific privacy rights are included in an employment contract or agreement you have signed. In practice, your employer
- [Can a Contractor Take a Lien On a Residential Property In Case of a Dispute In Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/can-a-contractor-take-a-lien-on-a-residential-property-in-case-of-a-dispute-in-massachusetts/) - Just as a coin has two sides, so has a dispute between a property owner and a contractor who has supplied construction services to that owner. Let’s just tease that sentence out before explaining what rights in Massachusetts law both contractors and owners have when attempting to resolve a construction dispute. When building work is
- [What is Hearsay Evidence in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-hearsay-evidence-in-massachusetts/) - We all know what “hearsay” is in colloquial language. Loosely, it refers to things that are said about someone which cannot be substantiated. Hearsay may also be referred to as “rumors” or “tittle tattle.” To give an example of hearsay, let’s say that a group of people are sitting round the dinner table discussing their
- [Tips to Settle a Dispute With a Residential Contractor](https://muccilegal.com/tips-to-settle-a-dispute-with-a-residential-contractor/) - There are many reasons why there could be a dispute with a residential contractor. In fact, disputes between owners and contractors, contractors and sub-contractors and between them and suppliers of materials are commonplace. This doesn’t mean that disputes cannot be resolved, but it does take some negotiating power and recognition of why the dispute arose
- [How Employers Should Respond to Workplace Injuries in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/how-employers-should-respond-to-workplace-injuries-in-massachusetts/) - COVID-19 has probably and rightly been center stage the last 18 months as far as employers are concerned. Much of the initial worry revolved around whether it was possible to keep the business running and who in the workforce was going to get sick next. As vaccinations ramped up in Massachusetts early this year and
- [The 4 Most Common Causes of Neighborhood Disputes in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/the-4-most-common-causes-of-neighborhood-disputes-in-massachusetts/) - There is an old, but true, saying that you can’t choose your own family. For many people, it's also sometimes unfortunately true that you can’t choose your neighbors! While the ties that bind you or not to your neighbors are far less strong than those with your family, oftentimes it’s your neighbors you have to
- [Is it Legal in Massachusetts for Employers to Use Vaccination Mandates on Employees?](https://muccilegal.com/is-it-legal-in-massachusetts-for-employers-to-use-vaccination-mandates-on-employees/) - The pandemic unfortunately hasn’t conveniently disappeared, even though in many parts of the U.S. life has returned to something resembling near normality. The principal reason why this improvement has happened, even if it hasn’t been perfect, is the availability of safe, effective vaccines against the SARS-Cov-2 virus. The principal reason why life hasn’t returned to
- [When Is It a Good Idea To Use a Cease and Desist Letter In Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/when-is-it-a-good-idea-to-use-a-cease-and-desist-letter-in-massachusetts/) - Cease and desist letters are a response to actions by an individual or business which is doing something wrong which affects you in some way. Common reasons for sending a cease and desist letter in Massachusetts includes incidences of bullying, intimidation, harassment, libelous or slanderous behavior, encroachment on your privacy or property, stalking, including cyberstalking
- [Can I Challenge an Unfair Divorce Settlement in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/can-i-challenge-an-unfair-divorce-settlement-in-massachusetts/) - Divorce is by its very nature often messy, emotionally fraught and frustrating. Somehow or other an agreement has to be made about shared assets, property and child custody. The longer a couple has been together, the greater the number of children and the more intertwined the two’s financial affairs are, the longer it can take
- [The Difference Between a Mandate and a Law in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/the-difference-between-a-mandate-and-a-law-in-massachusetts/) - In an emergency, decisions usually have to be made in a hurry. There may be no time to plan what to do and how to do it. If the emergency is a personal one, it’s often up to you and who is around you to make urgent decisions about your own safety. Later, you might
- [Steps in a Massachusetts Personal Injury Lawsuit Settlement](https://muccilegal.com/steps-in-a-massachusetts-personal-injury-lawsuit-settlement/) - If you have been injured because of the negligence of someone else, you may be able to recover the cost of your injury through a personal injury lawsuit. In Massachusetts, personal injury lawsuits are filed in a district court or the Boston Municipal Court. Not all accidents need to go to court. Every accident is
- [Changing Your Name - or Your Child's - After a Divorce in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/changing-your-name-or-your-childs-after-a-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - As if divorce wasn’t stressful enough, there are rules concerning changing your name after divorce and the names of any children you have physical custody for. In fact, many spouses who get divorced may not change their names at all and decide to keep their married name if they have one. If you do decide
- [What To Know About Ride Share Accidents](https://muccilegal.com/were-you-injured-in-a-ride-share-accident-heres-what-you-should-know/) - In recent years more and more people are choosing to use Lyft and Uber services as alternatives to taxis and public transport. Armed with one of these rideshare apps, you can almost always get a ride when you want to around town and it is normally cheaper than using a cab. This doesn’t mean these
- [Costly mistakes a will can help you avoid.](https://muccilegal.com/costly-mistakes-a-will-can-help-you-avoid/) - Did you know that 68% of Americans don't have a will? Estate planning and wills shouldn't be left until the last minute. A will gives your family guidance on how to divide your estate. If you die without a will, the court and the laws of your state determine how your estate will be split. Disaster strikes
- [Uninsured Drivers in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/uninsured-drivers-in-massachusetts/) - As the summer heats up and COVID restrictions lift, people are hitting the road for the first in over a year. More drivers on the road, unfortunately, results in more car accidents. The aftermath and the insurance claims process is scary and complex. It is especially difficult and time-consuming when you’re recovering from an injury.
- [Child Custody Arrangements for the Summer Vacation in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/child-custody-arrangements-for-the-summer-vacation-in-massachusetts/) - The long summer school break, nine weeks of it, is rapidly approaching. No doubt kids have been looking forward to this particular summer break for good reason. The pandemic put a damper on any kind of summer fun last year, but things, while still not exactly back to normal, are looking brighter than they have
- [Does Having a Trust Avoid the Need for Probate?](https://muccilegal.com/does-having-a-trust-avoid-the-need-for-probate/) - Many people leave worrying about what could happen to their property and other assets on death until it is too late. If you die before making a will or establishing a trust, your entire estate will be the responsibility of the court to distribute according to Massachusetts’ intestacy rules. There are many reasons why planning
- [Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements: What are the Differences?](https://muccilegal.com/prenuptial-and-postnuptial-agreements-what-are-the-differences/) - The future financial relationship between couples aiming to tie the knot can be tricky. Even when the two people start out married life more or less equal in assets, income and prospects, things can change over the period of married life. The arrival of children, changes in employment and career, inheritance and illness can all
- [What Does Family Law Cover in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-does-family-law-cover-in-massachusetts/) - Family law is a category of mainly civil law that involves relationships or conflicts between members of a family, e.g. spouses, civil law partnerships, children and parents. Family law cases may overlap with criminal law occasionally, e.g. if there are cases of child or spousal abuse, especially if this involves assault. Family law (civil) cases
- [Who can benefit from record expungement in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/who-can-benefit-from-record-expungement-in-massachusetts/) - Some past mistakes can continue to haunt us for years to come in the form of a criminal record. If there is something on your record then you have likely experienced difficulty with getting jobs, apartments, or even obtaining a loan. Perhaps you have been looking into going back to school but can’t get FAFSA
- [Can A Prenuptial Agreement In Massachusetts Be Unenforceable?](https://muccilegal.com/can-a-prenuptial-agreement-in-massachusetts-be-unenforceable/) - 40 to 50 percent of married couples in the United States divorce. A well-rounded and executed prenup is likely to save couples significant resources, time, and expenses. By entering into a prenuptial agreement, individuals intending to marry can better spell out their legal obligations and rights to one another throughout the marriage. Even though both parties need
- [States Make Their Own Laws – But Just How Much Do They Differ?](https://muccilegal.com/states-make-their-own-laws-but-just-how-much-do-they-differ/) - The United States has been just that since 1776 - a united confederation of states, each of which was created and developed along its own unique pathway. Most Americans are well aware that each state makes its own laws and when you cross from one state to another, you can’t expect that what you can,
- [Understanding this Year’s Changes to Massachusetts’ Zoning Act](https://muccilegal.com/understanding-this-years-changes-to-massachusetts-zoning-act/) - After years of trying to make more substantial changes to Massachusetts’ state wide zoning laws, state lawmakers finally made history when Governor Charlie Baker signed into existence the greatest shake up in legislation on state zoning rules in the last 40 or 50 years. For the 350 odd municipalities strung across the state, the changes
- [Who Is Eligible For a Simplified Probate in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/who-is-eligible-for-a-simplified-probate-in-massachusetts/) - When someone dies in Massachusetts, any assets that the deceased owns must be distributed according to the wishes of that person. If there is a will, then the assets are eventually distributed according to the instructions in the will, minus debts owed to creditors, the cost of funeral expenses, medical treatment prior to death etc.
- [Gig Workers And Employment Laws  – Here's An Update](https://muccilegal.com/gig-workers-and-employment-laws-heres-an-update/) - Gig workers operate out of the non-traditional work arrangements. They have temporary contracts with companies that hire them; as a result, their income varies on the number of gigs they get at any given time. These freelancers make up a considerable portion of the US workforce. Research shows that they'll be in the majority by
- [The Pandemic and the Probable Rise of Commercial Bankruptcies in 2021](https://muccilegal.com/the-pandemic-and-the-probable-rise-of-commercial-bankruptcies-in-2021/) - Many businesses have been hit hard in Massachusetts since the start of the pandemic and smaller businesses in particular are teetering on the edge of filing for bankruptcy or have already fallen off the cliff. The much publicized 1.9 billion dollar coronavirus relief package passed recently in Congress may only bolster some businesses indirectly as
- [Four Unique Massachusetts Laws You Should Know About](https://muccilegal.com/four-unique-massachusetts-laws-you-should-know-about/) - Every state in the Union has its own laws which distinguish the state from other states and from federal laws. Only if there is a substantial conflict with federal legislation will there be an attempt to override new state laws. Most laws unique to Massachusetts may be a little unusual but not particularly contentious. The
- [Divorce In Massachusetts: Equitable Doesn't Necessarily Mean 50/50](https://muccilegal.com/divorce-in-massachusetts-equitable-doesnt-necessarily-mean-50-50/) - Couples getting divorced in Massachusetts must deal with three issues before they can be legally separated. These issues are related to parenting/custody, alimony, and division of property & debts. Lawful distribution of property can be a complicated process, leading to significant conflict during the divorce proceedings. Usually, one party is adamant about acquiring a particular
- [Required Disclosures for Real Estate Sellers In Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/required-disclosures-for-real-estate-sellers-in-massachusetts/) - When selling your home, you may need to inform prospective buyers about certain features and details of the property to ensure complete transparency. Buyers would certainly do their own inspections, but sellers must disclose certain information to them by law. However, Massachusetts has no such law that mandates sellers to provide a disclosure statement to
- [What is the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-the-massachusetts-uniform-probate-code/) - Recent state government legislation has simplified the way probate is carried out in Massachusetts. Before we get into the details of how the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code works, the concept of probate itself will be explained. What is probate? When someone dies, they may have assets, such as bank deposits, property, shares or other valuable
- [COVID-19: Divorce And Custody Issues In Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/covid-19-divorce-and-custody-issues-in-massachusetts/) - The coronavirus pandemic continues to have a ripple effect on various aspects of life, placing added strain on marriages and worsening relationships between co-parents. People have lost jobs, shut down their businesses, and watch their loved one's struggle, all due to a standstill economy. In April 2020, the rate of unemployment was 15.1% in Massachusetts, which is
- [Are Non Refundable Fees Really Non Refundable?](https://muccilegal.com/are-non-refundable-fees-really-non-refundable/) - It’s been a year of non-stop Covid restrictions on normal life and for many people the restrictions on travel are some of the most frustrating and irksome. While travel within Massachusetts and across the U.S. is certainly possible, it comes with increased risk as the number of infections has risen in many states. International travel
- [Legal Aspects of Climate Change for Businesses in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/legal-aspects-of-climate-change-for-businesses-in-massachusetts/) - Climate change is increasingly a component of litigation in the United States. With the incoming Biden administration expected to take an increasingly stronger stance on climate change mitigation and legislation, it seems likely that businesses, wherever they are in the U.S., need to take a more pro-active approach to minimizing their legal exposure to risk.
- [Massachusetts Labor Laws During Covid-19](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-labor-laws-during-covid-19/) - The virus that upended just about everything early last year is unfortunately still with us and probably nothing will really go back to ‘normal’ until the current vaccine roll out is near complete. It’s not just Massachusetts, of course. The virus has seriously affected every aspect of human life, including the way businesses operate, across
- [What Is Informal Probate In Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-informal-probate-in-massachusetts/) - Probate is the legal process to settle a person’s assets after their death to ensure that their will is valid. These assets include bank funds, investment accounts, homes, and properties, plus assets like cars, boats and businesses. However, it is essential to understand that the assets will be liable for probate with or without an
- [Home Improvement Contracts: Considerations In MA And Delays Due To Pandemic](https://muccilegal.com/home-improvement-contracts-considerations-in-ma-and-delays-due-to-pandemic/) - Home repair and renovation projects don't always go as planned. A small disagreement between homeowners and contractors can blow over to courtroom battles. As a homeowner, unless you want to waste your time in a "he said, I said" courtroom battle along with the unnecessary stress, it's better to take a few steps to diminish
- [When Is Probate Necessary In Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/when-is-probate-necessary-in-massachusetts/) - In a previous blog post, we had discussed the differences between informal and formal probate and delved into the nuances of informal probate in the state of Massachusetts. As a beneficiary, heir, or executor to a decedent, it is important for you to know if and when a probate is necessary. Unfortunately, most people are
- [Mitigating Litigation Risk For Businesses Reopening In The Near Future](https://muccilegal.com/mitigating-litigation-risk-for-businesses-reopening-in-the-near/) - As employees return to work, businesses are faced with an altered work environment, one of social distancing, reduced contact, and greater health risks. There is no dearth of potential litigation risks after the pandemic, and smart business managers are quickly gearing up for any eventuality. As customers head back to their favorite outlets, they will
- [How To Legally Change Your Name In Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/how-to-legally-change-your-name-in-massachusetts/) - Most people choose to change their last name in the case of marriage, divorce, or adoption. In the case of a name change, Massachusetts state laws allow a person to change it without reason, as long as they're not doing it for fraudulent motives. And it's not just limited to surnames- people can change their
- [Precautions That Should be Taken on Videoconferencing - Legal Issues for Your Business in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/precautions-that-should-be-taken-on-videoconferencing-legal-issues-for-your-business-in-massachusetts/) - Many businesses have been regularly using videoconferencing since the start of the Covid-9 pandemic. It gets around the necessity to socially distance and can have other advantages, too. It is cheaper to run a videoconference than a full blown face to face event and quicker to organize. It saves on lengthy (and expensive) airfares and
- [The Difference Between Estate Planning And Wills In Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/the-difference-between-estate-planning-and-wills-in-massachusetts/) - One estimate is that 68% of American adults have made no provision at all for managing their assets after they die. There is something about planning for your death that seems to put off many people, even though planning the next summer’s vacation or even a night out with friends is looked forward to with
- [Who Needs a Criminal Background Check in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/who-needs-a-criminal-background-check-in-massachusetts/) - If you have applied for a job in Massachusetts, don’t be surprised if you are told that your application will be subject to a criminal background check. In fact, job applicants are by far the most likely to be subjected to a criminal background check in this state. Criminal background checks are likely to be
- [Massachusetts Tree Law: When Can A Landowner Be Liable For A Fallen Tree?](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-tree-law-when-can-a-landowner-be-liable-for-a-fallen-tree/) - Homes in a pristine green neighborhood are precious assets, as homeowners rush to buy them. There is no doubt that living in a home that’s surrounded by trees is a fantastic experience… that is until one of them falls on the neighbor’s house! It can happen because of storms or lack of proper upkeep, but
- [Current Evictions – Legal Considerations During COVID-19 In Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/current-evictions-legal-considerations-during-covid-19-in-massachusetts/) - Low-income households have already been severely affected by the pandemic, and the housing insecurity is only adding to their troubles. According to the Household Pulse Survey Interactive Tool, approximately one out of five people feel insecure when it comes to housing. They have either missed the recent rental payment or are uncertain about their ability
- [What is Fiduciary Duty and What Can be Done When There is a Breach of It?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-fiduciary-duty-and-what-can-be-done-when-there-is-a-breach-of-it/) - A fiduciary is an individual, business or organization that has a legal duty towards another individual, business or organization. The party to which the fiduciary owes a duty is called the beneficiary and the specific duty owed is called the fiduciary duty. The word ‘fiduciary’ has been derived from Latin origins. In Latin, for instance,
- [All You Need To Know About Emergency Paid Sick Time In Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/all-you-need-to-know-about-emergency-paid-sick-time-in-massachusetts/) - If you feel sick or believe that you may have been exposed to the Coronavirus, it is important that you stay home and avoid exposing others as well. But for this to happen, you’ll need cooperation from your employers, so you can miss work to look after yourself and loved ones. Similarly, many Americans are
- [The Child Custody Order Process in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/the-child-custody-order-process-in-massachusetts/) - When couples decide to separate, or when a separation occurs because one of the partners decides to quit for reasons of their own, one of the more difficult sets of decisions that has to be made is what to do about shared children. Who should they live with? Who will look after them and provide
- [The Legal Challenges for Small Business Owners in the COVID-19 Era](https://muccilegal.com/the-legal-challenges-for-small-business-owners-in-the-covid-19-era/) - The COVID-19 pandemic has hit small businesses hard in Massachusetts, perhaps harder than many other places in the U.S. Around 22% of small businesses in the state have been forced to close down, or reduce their operations awaiting a better economic environment. The national average is around 17%. What exactly is considered a small business?
- [Pet Legislation in Massachusetts – Are You Doing the Right Thing?](https://muccilegal.com/pet-legislation-in-massachusetts-are-you-doing-the-right-thing/) - When the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and stay home order in Massachusetts began, many people decided to buy a new pet as a companion and a distraction to the depressing events happening outside their home. The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals reported an increase in people wanting to adopt pets and there
- [Property Separation in a Massachusetts Divorce](https://muccilegal.com/property-separation-in-a-massachusetts-divorce/) - Property Separation in a Divorce in Massachusetts The longer a married couple has been together, the more likely that they have acquired property together and their financial affairs have become entwined. This means that if the couple then decides to go through a divorce it can be complicated deciding on how to divide those assets. Property separation
- [How Do Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Settlements Work?](https://muccilegal.com/how-do-massachusetts-workers-compensation-settlements-work/) - Workers' compensation provides payments, as needed, for lost wages, and lifetime medical care for a work-related injury or illness. But, you and your employer or its workers' compensation insurance provider can agree to permanently close your claim in exchange for one lump-sum payment. This is known as settling your workers' compensation claim. Because a workers'
- [Attorney Mucci -   2020 Top Rated General Litigation Attorney in Winchester, MA](https://muccilegal.com/richard-mucci-top-rated-general-litigation-attorney-in-winchester-2020-ma/) - 2020 Rated by Super Lawyers* Selected To Super Lawyers: 2016 - 2020 Selected To Rising Stars: 2013 - 2015 *About Super Lawyers: rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. (source: superlawyers.com) To contact The Law Offices of Richard
- [The COVID-19 State of Emergency and Its Legal Implications for Citizens of Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/the-covid-19-state-of-emergency-and-its-legal-implications-for-citizens-of-massachusetts/) - The COVID-19 virus is affecting every facet of society. Though the long-term legal implications are still unclear, this article explores some of the legal issues that residents of Massachusetts are currently grappling with due to the COVID-19 state of emergency and what we can expect to see in the near future. Massachusetts Courts Massachusetts courts
- [Vacation Time After Divorce in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/vacation-time-after-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - Vacation Time After Divorce in Massachusetts Couples who have a divorce have to think about what they are going to do with their joint children after divorcing. The younger the children are at the time of separation, the greater the potential harmful effect on their mental and emotional healthand development. Some young children may even
- [Understanding Massachusetts Recreational Boating Laws in the Covid-19 Era](https://muccilegal.com/understanding-massachusetts-recreational-boating-laws-in-the-covid-19-era/) - With Massachusetts gradually opening up after what seems like endless weeks cooped up at home, many people are looking forward to enjoy the rest of the summer out on the water. Of course, nothing is exactly the same as it was last year. Although recreational boating, whether on the sea or on lakes and rivers,
- [Living Apart as Grounds for Divorce in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/living-apart-as-grounds-for-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - Living Apart as Grounds for Divorce in Massachusetts Divorce is rarely as pleasant a procedure as the marriage that preceded it, although for at least one, and probably both spouses, it may come as a relief, allowing the two people to move on in life. Marriage is an agreement between you, your spouse and the
- [Workplace Covid-19 Safety Measures And Termination of Employment in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/termination-of-employment-in-massachusetts-due-to-employee-dissatisfaction-with-covid-19-safety-provisions/) - Like many states across the nation, Massachusetts is entering a transition period in its response to the Covid-19 pandemic that has been ravaging the U.S. as it has in almost every other part of the world. For the last two months only essential businesses and workplaces have been open with many residents of the state
- [Probate during COVID-19 pandemic in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/probate-during-covid-19-pandemic-in-massachusetts/) - Probate is the legal process that a deceased person's estate must go through to pass the decedent's probatable assets on to their descendants or, preferably, their named beneficiaries. Probate can be time-consuming and expensive and can significantly delay inheritance. What's more, probate involves a great deal of court and administrative oversight and is a public
- [Reduce Bicycle Accidents: What Are MA State Bike Rules?](https://muccilegal.com/reduce-bicycle-accidents-what-are-ma-state-bike-rules/) - Reduce Bicycle Accidents: What Are Massachusetts State Bike Rules? More and more people are hitting the road on a bicycle for both health and to lower their carbon footprint. Massachusetts has been proactive about creating laws for cyclists which are aimed at reducing the number of bicycle accidents and their often devastating outcomes. The finer
- [How Common Law Couples Can Protect Themselves in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/how-common-law-couples-can-protect-themselves-in-massachusetts/) - Like everyone else, you have probably heard the term "common law marriage," at one point or another. But, what does it actually mean? First, let's deal with the myths: Everyone thinks that if you live together for a certain amount of time, you automatically become common law married. Others think that even if you don't
- [When Alimony Isn't Paid: Your Rights and Obligations in MA](https://muccilegal.com/when-alimony-isnt-paid-your-rights-and-obligations-in-ma/) - When your ex-spouse fails to make his or her alimony payments to you, going back to divorce or family court should be the first step you take to remedy the situation. You when doing so, you should enlist the help of an experienced family law—divorce lawyer to advocate on your behalf. You will need to
- [Counsel Through Covid-19](https://muccilegal.com/counsel-through-covid-19/) - Businesses can sign up for legal Counsel Through Covid-19. 30 Min Free legal consultation. Don't miss this opportunity to get expert legal advice during this difficult time from attorneys Rich Mucci, Steve Cagnetta, & Nina Parker #legaladvice #localfirst SIGN UP (https://bit.ly/counsel-covid19)
- [Bans on Eviction/Mortgage Relief During COVID-19 in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/bans-on-eviction-mortgage-relief-during-covid-19-in-massachusetts/) - A few months ago, no one could have predicted that we would be living in such volatile times and that our everyday lives would have changed so dramatically. The COVID-19 coronavirus has affected us all, and the current “normal” is not at all normal. The financial impact this public health crisis is having on the
- [Digital or Electronic Signatures in Massachusetts are Legally Valid](https://muccilegal.com/digital-or-electronic-signatures-in-massachusetts-are-legally-valid/) - With Massachusetts under social distancing and stay at home rules and the closure of essential businesses, many law firms are operating under different conditions. Lawyers are resorting to the help of expanded use of the Internet, including email, video conferencing and the use of digital and / or electronic signatures for important client documents. This
- [Real Estate - Neighborhood Disputes: What Grandfathered Means in Real Estate in MA](https://muccilegal.com/real-estate-neighborhood-disputes-what-grandfathered-means-in-real-estate-in-ma/) - In the interest of doing what is best for communities, in terms of public health and safety and city planning, the state and local municipalities often put in place zoning regulations to govern how land in certain areas may be used ( i.e. a building's height, lot size, and setback, or whether it can be
- [How Do Federal and Massachusetts State Emergency Powers Stack Up During the COVID-19 Crisis?](https://muccilegal.com/how-do-federal-and-massachusetts-state-emergency-powers-stack-up-during-the-covid-19-crisis/) - As of the time of writing (23 March 2020), 777 people in Massachusetts have been confirmed infected with the SARS-COV-2 virus, better known as the novel coronavirus that causes the flu like disease, COVID-19. 9 people in the state have already died and numbers of infections are continuing to increase day by day with little
- [Social Media and Divorce Custody Cases](https://muccilegal.com/social-media-texting-and-divorce-custody-cases/) - Rules of Evidence determine what type of documents and testimony are allowed by the court as evidence during a trial. Generally, these rules are fairly relaxed in family law proceedings—meaning that the parties are generally allowed to offer any relevant evidence. This is especially true when it comes to evidence related to the best interest
- [The Law Offices of Richard Mucci Selected Among Best Family Lawyer in Boston 2020 by Expertise](https://muccilegal.com/the-law-offices-of-richard-mucci-selected-among-best-family-lawyer-in-boston-2020-by-expertise/) - The Law Offices Of Richard Mucci, located in Winchester Massachusetts was selected among best family lawyer in Boston area by Expertise. Expertise looked at 385 family lawyers serving Boston and picked the top 19. "We scored family lawyers on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list
- [Massachusetts Introduces New Laws on Vaping Products For 2020](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-introduces-new-laws-on-vaping-products-for-2020/) - Massachusetts Introduces New Laws on Vaping Products For 2020 There has been some controversy recently about the safety of vaping products, also referred to as e-cigarettes. Many people have resorted to these devices as an alternative to tobacco based products, or as a means of transiting away from using any type of tobacco product that
- [How Hands-Free Driving Enforcement Will Affect Massachusetts’ Residents](https://muccilegal.com/how-hands-free-driving-enforcement-will-affect-massachusetts-residents/) - How Hands-Free Driving Enforcement Will Affect Massachusetts’ Residents On November 25th 2019 in Boston, Governor Charlie Baker signed improved legislation in relation to the use of electronic devices while driving. The intention is to improve road safety in Massachusetts. It stipulates that anyone while operating a motor vehicle is only permitted to use an electronic
- [How Divorce Can Affect Estate Planning In Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/how-divorce-can-affect-estate-planning-in-massachusetts/) - You and your spouse have decided to go your separate ways. You've told your family and friends, hired an experienced Massachusetts divorce attorney and, last but not least, you have made it official on Facebook. At first, it seems simple - you both want different things, you've grown apart, and the only thing you seem
- [Is It Legal to Have Animal Traps on Your Property in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/is-it-legal-to-have-animal-traps-on-your-property-in-massachusetts/) - You may have heard that Massachusetts law prohibits the use and installment of certain types of traps on one’s property, but does it mean that it is illegal to have any animal traps on your property? Not necessarily. Although Massachusetts law is rather strict about the use of traps to capture or kill animals, the
- [How Disgruntled Employees Can Affect a Small Business in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/how-disgruntled-employees-can-affect-a-small-business-in-massachusetts/) - Employment is a hallmark of adulthood. In fact, over 3.3 billion adults around the world are employed. That's almost half of the global population. Since employment is so important for our livelihood, we should enjoy it. Unfortunately, this is not the case for many of us. Approximately half of the global workforce reports being unhappy
- [Privacy Rights in the Workplace in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/privacy-rights-in-the-workplace-in-massachusetts/) - Fundamentally, employees forfeit certain privacy rights in exchange for the opportunity to be employed and to earn pay. Though some think that this arrangement is unconstitutional, there is very little support for this belief in the Constitution itself. The reality is that while the constitution offers extensive privacy protection to those who are employed by
- [Things to Look For in a Real Estate Lawyer When Buying a Home in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/8-things-to-look-for-in-a-real-estate-lawyer-when-buying-a-home-in-massachusetts/) - Choosing the right Massachusetts real estate lawyer is like buying a home. There are at least eight things to consider prior to making the decision. As with buying the wrong house, hiring the wrong lawyer is something that you will regret. That is why you should treat the process of choosing a real estate attorney
- [Paid Family and Medical Leave in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/paid-family-and-medical-leave-in-massachusetts/) - Over the past few years, numerous states have passed laws providing for paid family and medical leave. Because the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides for only unpaid leave, states like Massachusetts are stepping up to provide paid leave benefits that typically run concurrently with the FMLA if both apply. Massachusetts' new Paid
- [Discrimination (gender) in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/discrimination-gender-in-massachusetts/) - Across the county, women earn on average 79 cents for every dollar that men earn in comparable positions. Massachusetts is not much better, where statewide women earn only 83 cents for every dollar men earn in comparable positions. What's worse, across the top 25 companies in the nation, women occupy only 3 percent of the
- [Probate in Massachusetts: Why Does It Take So Long in Some Cases?](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-probate-lawyer-why-it-takes-so-long/) - Probate, which is the legal process for distributing the deceased’s property after his or her death, has a reputation in Massachusetts for its long duration. But is this always the case? If not, then how long does it take to probate a will in the state of Massachusetts? Unfortunately, there’s no clear-cut way of answering
- [Massachusetts Laws on Adult Use of Marijuana](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-laws-on-adult-use-of-marijuana/) - Nearly three years ago, on November 8, 2016, Massachusetts voters approved the historic ballot initiative that put an end to marijuana prohibition for adults 21 and older. On December 15, 2016, it became legal for adults to grow and possess cannabis in the Bay State. The first adult-use marijuana sales in Massachusetts began on November
- [Contract Disputes in Business Litigation Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/contract-disputes-in-business-litigation-massachusetts/) - A contract does not have to be in writing. A contract simply exists after a verbal offer was communicated and accepted. But, because of this ambiguity, it is not uncommon for businesses to have to deal with partners, suppliers, and customers who fail to meet their contractual obligations. Contract disputes are all too common in
- [What to Do After a Car Accident in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-in-massachusetts/) - A car accident is everyone's worst nightmare––wrecked automobiles and mangled lives. More than 4,500 people in Massachusetts are seriously injured or killed in car accidents every year. A car accident can be an extremely traumatic experience for everyone involved––the drivers, passengers, and even witnesses. Especially when someone has been severely injured or killed. In
- [Four Approaches to Navigating a Divorce in Massachusetts ](https://muccilegal.com/4-approaches-to-navigating-a-divorce-in-massachusetts/) - When you are contemplating divorce, there is a lot that you need to consider. After your divorce, your life will be different in many ways. And just thinking about all of the ways your life will change can be overwhelming. Then, there are all the decisions you will need to make, most importantly: Whether you
- [The 10 Most Common Wage and Hour Issues for Employees in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/the-10-most-common-wage-and-hour-issues-for-employees-in-massachusetts/) - Wage and hour issues in Massachusetts are governed by the rules and regulations set forth by state law and the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The FLSA governs employment issues related to minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and youth employment for those employed by private companies and by federal, state, and local governments. The
- [What is Business Litigation?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-business-litigation/) - Litigation is the formal process by which a lawsuit is filed so that a judge or jury can resolve a legal issue. Litigation can involve a wide range of matters. Common types of litigation include: Criminal litigation; Family law litigation; Trust and probate litigation; Bankruptcy litigation; Personal injury litigation; and Business litigation Business Litigation Business
- [Divorce In Massachusetts: Learn How Property is Divided](https://muccilegal.com/divorce-in-massachusetts-learn-how-property-is-divided/) - A divorce is the legal dissolution of the union between two people whose assets and liabilities were bound together through marriage. So, when you get divorced, one of the many issues that you and your spouse need to consider is how your assets and liabilities will be divided between the two of you. Dividing property
- [When To Hire A Brain Injury Lawyer](https://muccilegal.com/greater-boston-ma-brain-injury-lawyer/) - Have you or a loved one suffered a serious brain injury after a motor vehicle accident, a fall, a medical error, or some other traumatic event? If so, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. A brain injury can happen in an instant, but can leave you dealing with the consequences for the rest of
- [Share of Property in A Divorce in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/share-of-property-in-divorce-massachusetts-divorce-lawyer/) - “What share of marital property does my spouse have?” is the question on everyone’s mind when getting divorced in Massachusetts or elsewhere in the United States. Sadly, married couples usually give very little thought to the matter of division of marital property until it’s too late. When getting married, many people are under the illusion
- [Massachusetts Law Restrictions on Non-Compete Agreements](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-law-restrictions-on-non-compete-agreements/) - A non-compete agreement – also known as a restrictive covenant – is a practice of employers asking their new and existing employees to agree not to start a competing business or work for the employer’s competitor for a specific period of time after termination of employment. It is understandable why employers get their employees to
- [What Happens at a Massachusetts Family Court Pre-Trial Hearing?](https://muccilegal.com/what-happens-at-a-massachusetts-family-court-pre-trial-hearing/) - Some family law cases, especially highly contested divorces and child custody cases, will need to go to trial to be resolved. However, only a small percentage of family law cases filed in Massachusetts actually make it to trial. Many are resolved outside of court or during one of the most important stages in the family
- [Misrepresentations of Product or Service in Massachusetts: Know Your Consumer Rights](https://muccilegal.com/misrepresentations-of-product-or-service-in-massachusetts-consumer-rights/) - Consumers rely on product or service assertions made by manufacturers, sellers, and distributors to make informed purchasing decisions, or so they think. Any agreement or sale depends on the goodwill and honesty of the participants, typically the seller and the buyer. When parties enter into an agreement or a purchase is made, the seller or
- [7 Reasons Why DUI Defendants Should Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer](https://muccilegal.com/reasons-why-you-need-massachusetts-dui-defense-lawyer/) - About one in three traffic deaths in the U.S. involve an intoxicated driver. In Massachusetts alone, nearly 1,400 people died in driving under the influence (DUI) - related crashes between 2003 and 2012, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The disturbing statistic does not make it easier for drivers falsely accused
- [What Factors Do I Need to Consider Before Moving My Child Out-Of-State?](https://muccilegal.com/what-factors-do-i-need-to-consider-before-moving-my-child-out-of-state/) - Family relocation cases involving a request to move out-of-state are no longer a rarity. But, in order to be successful, any request will need to be properly planned, prepared, and presented to the court with the assistance of a qualified family law attorney. With that said, here are several things you need to consider before
- [The Principles of Police Interrogations in Massachusetts: Everything You Need to Know](https://muccilegal.com/the-principles-of-police-interrogations-in-massachusetts-everything-you-need-to-know/) - If you have never been interrogated by the police, your only knowledge of police interrogations probably comes from TV shows and films about detectives. But are these police interrogation scenes depicted on TV bear any resemblance to reality? Moreover, those of you who have been arrested or asked to come down to the station to
- [Probate in Massachusetts - When Should You Probate an Estate?](https://muccilegal.com/probate-in-massachusetts-when-should-you-probate-an-estate/) - Losing a loved is a traumatizing and life-changing event. Not only should you deal with unbearable grief and sadness, but also handle the legal aspects pertaining to transferring property and ownership after the death of your loved one (unless you are represented by a lawyer who will handle these legal aspects on your behalf). Being
- [Can a Parent Relocate with the Child in Massachusetts?](https://muccilegal.com/can-a-parent-move-away-relocate-with-the-child-in-massachusetts/) - Relocating with the kids is tough when you are married, but even more so if you are divorced or separated and share custody with the other parent. If you or your ex wants to move away – or, in legal terms, relocate – and take your children along, there are quite a few things to
- [Testamentary Capacity in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/the-appeals-court-of-massachusetts/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Estate Planning and Probate on Monday, June 1, 2015.The Appeals Court of Massachusetts recently addressed the issue of testamentary capacity. In In the Matter of the Estate of Fred S. Rosen, a will contestant appealed a court decree allowing the will, a judgment dismissing his
- [Massachusetts Premises Liability Law: How to Recover Damages and Prove Fault?](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-premises-liability-lawyer/) - Slip and fall accidents and other similar incidents are so common in Massachusetts that many victims – often incorrectly – end up blaming themselves for what happened, when, in reality, the property owner or landlord should be held responsible under the law of premises liability in Massachusetts. Each year, slip and falls account for over
- [Massachusetts Overtime Law: Get Your Claim Filed](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-overtime-law-get-your-claim-filed/) - Are you working over forty hours a week and cashing your paycheck each week wondering if you have a claim against your employer for a violation of the overtime laws? Based on a ruling by the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts in Firth v. TD Bank, N.A. you should file a
- [How does arbitration work in a construction law dispute?](https://muccilegal.com/how-does-arbitration-work-in-a-construction-law-dispute/) - On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucci on Wednesday, February 20, 2019. Many contracts include provisions regarding how to deal with disputes. Construction law is no exception. Using arbitration instead of proceeding directly to a Massachusetts court can keep costs down and keep the dispute private, which could protect the parties
- [Choosing an Experienced Massachusetts Construction Lawyer](https://muccilegal.com/choosing-an-experienced-massachusetts-construction-lawyer/) - Are you tired of not being paid for the work you do on construction projects? Are you involved in a defect claim or worried about being sued? Are you fed up with leaving money on the table at the end of jobs? Are you looking for a better way to strengthen your legal position, protect
- [The decision to divorce doesn't happen overnight](https://muccilegal.com/the-decision-to-divorce-doesnt-happen-overnight/) - On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucciposted in Divorce on Tuesday, May 14, 2019. Like other couples across the country, those getting married here in Massachusetts never expect the relationship will end. Even couples who enter into prenuptial agreements may not believe that their marriages will end in divorce. More often than not, the decision to
- [Massachusetts Search Warrants and Curtilage](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-search-warrants-and-curtilage/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Criminal Law on Friday, December 2, 2016. Often at issue in drug cases is the validity of searches and seizures of evidence. Even when the police obtain a search warrant, a defendant may challenge a search that is not authorized by the warrant. In Commonwealth
- [Revocation of Acceptance of Goods under the U.C.C. in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/revocation-of-acceptance-of-goods-under-the-ucc-in-massachusetts/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Sunday, October 16, 2016.The Uniform Commercial Code ("U.C.C.") is a uniform act that applies to certain commercial agreements, including the sale of goods. The U.C.C. addresses issues such as non-conforming goods, acceptance of the goods, and revocation of that acceptance. The Massachusetts
- [Personal Injury: Are Those Terrible College Showers The Cause?](https://muccilegal.com/personal-injury-are-those-terrible-college-showers-the-cause/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Tort Law on Monday, February 3, 2014.Often people joke that the showers in college were so bad that they hurt...well if you intend to make the joke a reality and file a civil action in Massachusetts against your college seeking damages for negligent showers you
- [Buyer Beware: Premises Liability Cases Where Customers Serve Themselves](https://muccilegal.com/buyer-beware-premises-liability-cases-where-customers-serve-themselves/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Tort Law on Thursday, June 25, 2015.In Massachusetts, businesses that allow customers to serve themselves may face liability for hazards created by customers moving the merchandise. In a recent case, the appeals court decided whether the mode of operation doctrine applies when customer manipulation of
- [Massachusetts Recreational Use Statute and Claims against a Town](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-recreational-use-statute-and-claims-against-a-town/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Tort Law on Monday, November 30, 2015.Sometimes towns or other government entities can be negligent and cause an injury. Pursuing a claim against a government entity can be very difficult. Most claims against a government entity in Massachusetts, including claims against a town, are governed
- [Massachusetts Recreational Use Statute Doesn't Bar Claim of Mother Who Bought Tickets for Her Kids](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-recreational-use-statute-doesnt-bar-claim-of-mother-who-bought-tickets-for-her-kids/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Tort Law on Tuesday, July 26, 2016. Massachusetts, like many states, has what is known as a recreational use statute. Recreational use statutes provide some amount of immunity to landowners who open their property to the public for recreational use. Pursuant to the Massachusetts statute,
- [Brokers May Be Liable For Misrepresentations Even Though Purchase and Sale Agreement Limits Liability](https://muccilegal.com/brokers-may-be-liable-for-misrepresentations-even-though-purchase-and-sale-agreement-limits-liabilit/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Real Estate on Thursday, January 24, 2013.Brokers and sellers of property need to be cautious of what they put in writing to advertise a property for sale. The Massachusetts Appeals Court in DeWolfe v. Hingham Centre Ltd. ruled that a jury should decide whether a
- [Title Insurance: Don't Buy Real Estate Without It](https://muccilegal.com/title-insurance-dont-buy-real-estate-without-it/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Real Estate on Thursday, February 7, 2013.The Land Court's decision in HS Land Trust v. Gonzalez reminds us all of the importance of title insurance when buying real estate and the often overlooked method of foreclosure: foreclosure by entry. At the heart of the dispute
- [Property Rights Washed Away by the Ocean](https://muccilegal.com/property-rights-washed-away-by-the-ocean/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Real Estate on Wednesday, February 20, 2013.Recently, the Supreme Judicial Court affirmed in White, et al. v. Hartigan, et al. that a Martha's Vineyard landowner's property rights to an exclusive beachfront property does not shift upwards due to the erosion of the beach, but rather,
- [SJC: No Licenses Allowed For Landlords To Rent To College Students](https://muccilegal.com/sjc-no-licenses-allowed-for-landlords-to-rent-to-college-students/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Real Estate on Thursday, May 30, 2013.Remember when you lived in a rundown, dirty and dingy apartment or house in college with as many friends as you could cram into the place? Recently, such practices have been scrutinized by cities throughout Massachusetts. Recognizing the dangers
- [Appeals Court Allows Massachusetts Civil Rights Act, Abuse of Process, and Civil Conspiracy Claims in Condo Case](https://muccilegal.com/appeals-court-allows-massachusetts-civil-rights-act-abuse-of-process-and-civil-conspiracy-claims-in/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Real Estate on Tuesday, August 18, 2015.When the relationship between condominium owners turns sour, the result can sometimes be lengthy and complex litigation, as occurred in the recent case of Wodinsky v. Kettenbach. This case involved two separate lawsuits that were consolidated for trial. First,
- [Massachusetts Landlord Liability For Violent Acts By A Third Party](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-landlord-liability-for-violent-acts-by-a-third-party/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Real Estate on Monday, December 21, 2015.Rental properties can be highly profitable, but they also carry some risks. A significant risk landlords face is the potential for liability when someone is injured on the property. A landlord's liability for an injury will depend heavily on
- [Adverse Possession And Color Of Title In Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/adverse-possession-and-color-of-title-in-massachusetts/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Real Estate on Tuesday, January 26, 2016.Property rights are generally transferred through conveyances of deeds, but there are times when a person can obtain rights to property through certain actions without the consent of the property owner. A person may gain an interest in property
- [Boston Condo Unit Owner Didn't Violate Affordable Housing Restrictions by Having Roommates](https://muccilegal.com/boston-condo-unit-owner-didnt-violate-affordable-housing-restrictions-by-having-roommates/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Real Estate on Monday, May 16, 2016.The Boston Redevelopment Authority ("BRA") has created an affordable housing program that is intended to help create and maintain affordable housing opportunities for middle-income residents of the city. The affordable condominium units sold under this program are subject to
- [Massachusetts Appeals Court Finds Court Doesn't Have to Accept Stipulation of Contract's Validity](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-appeals-court-finds-court-doesnt-have-to-accept-stipulation-of-contracts-validity/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Real Estate on Wednesday, August 3, 2016.Breach of contract claims often involve disputes over the terms of the agreement, what occurred, and whether a party's actions constituted a breach. Sometimes, however, there is a dispute over whether a valid contract even exists. The existence of
- [Agreement Entered Into When Developer Controlled the Board Is Enforceable Against Massachusetts Condo Association](https://muccilegal.com/agreement-entered-into-when-developer-controlled-the-board-is-enforceable-against-massachusetts-cond/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Real Estate on Friday, September 16, 2016.Property developers sometimes enter into agreements for the benefit of the development. Both the Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act (UCIOA) and the Restatement (Third) of Property: Servitudes allow the condominium board to terminate certain agreements made by the developer,
- [Massachusetts Condo Association Can Establish Multiple Successive Priority Liens for Unpaid Common Expenses](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-condo-association-can-establish-multiple-successive-priority-liens-for-unpaid-common-e/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Real Estate on Wednesday, November 16, 2016.Massachusetts General Laws c. 183A, § 6(c) provides that a lien for the unpaid common expenses of a condominium is prior to all other liens on the unit except those recorded before the master deed was recorded, a first
- [Child Support Modification Standard Clarified And Simplified](https://muccilegal.com/child-support-modification-standard-clarified-and-simplified/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Family Law on Tuesday, April 2, 2013.Recently, the Supreme Judicial Court in Massachusetts clarified the standard for a parent to get a child support order modified. In Morales v. Morales, the SJC held that a divorced parent does not have to prove a substantial change
- [Massachusetts Does Not Require Notice of Adoption to Sperm Donor](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-does-not-require-notice-of-adoption-to-sperm-donor/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Family Law on Friday, May 15, 2015.The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court recently considered whether notice of an adoption petition must go to a known sperm donor. In this recent case, a married same-sex couple sought to adopt their son to ensure recognition of their parentage
- [Division of Future Book Royalties in Massachusetts Divorces](https://muccilegal.com/division-of-future-book-royalties-in-massachusetts-divorces/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Family Law on Tuesday, November 24, 2015.It is common for a person to sacrifice to support a spouse who is pursuing an education or developing a career. Unfortunately, if the marriage falls apart after the spouse becomes successful, the divorce can become very contentious. The Massachusetts
- [Massachusetts Appeals Court Denies Mother's Request to Move Children to California](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-appeals-court-denies-mothers-request-to-move-children-to-california/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Family Law on Friday, May 13, 2016.In Massachusetts, a custodial parent may not remove a minor child from the Commonwealth without the child's consent if the child is old enough to give it. If the child is too young to provide consent, the custodial parent
- [Massachusetts Appeals Court Includes Income in Child Support Calculation Despite Mother's Waiver of Interest](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-appeals-court-includes-income-in-child-support-calculation-despite-mothers-waiver-of-i/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Family Law on Friday, September 9, 2016. Child support in Massachusetts is determined using the Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines. There is a rebuttable presumption that the guidelines apply to all child support cases, whether they are establishing a new order or modifying an order that
- [Arbitration in Massachusetts Probate and Family Court](https://muccilegal.com/arbitration-in-massachusetts-probate-and-family-court/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Family Law on Tuesday, December 6, 2016.Mediation and arbitration are often less expensive and less stressful alternatives to litigation in family law matters. The parties must agree to submit to alternative dispute resolution, however. When agreeing to one of these alternatives, the parties should understand
- [Massachusetts Alimony Settlement Cannot Be Reopened Because of a Subsequent Clarification of the Law](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-alimony-settlement-cannot-be-reopened-because-of-a-subsequent-clarification-of-the-law/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Family Law on Tuesday, January 10, 2017.Sometimes a case is in progress during or shortly after a change in the law, when its application and interpretation are still uncertain. In such cases, the parties may prefer to settle rather than risk an unpredictable result. In
- [Unascertainable Beneficiaries in Massachusetts Trusts and IRAs](https://muccilegal.com/unascertainable-beneficiaries-in-massachusetts-trusts-and-iras/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Estate Planning and Probate on Friday, March 25, 2016. Failing to properly identify beneficiaries in accounts, trusts, or other estate documents can mean that your wishes will not be carried out. While a court may try to reform a document to match the intent of
- [Last Day of Employment? It Better Include A Cash-Out For Unused Vacation Time](https://muccilegal.com/last-day-of-employment-it-better-include-a-cash-out-for-unused-vacation-time/) - Last Day of Employment? It Better Include A Cash-Out For Unused Vacation Time On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Employment Law on Thursday, March 7, 2013.Employers beware; gratuitous severance payments to former employees do not permit employers to deny separating employees their wages for accrued and unused vacation time. In Dixon
- [What Rights Do You Have To Collect Your Annual Bonus If You Are Fired?](https://muccilegal.com/what-rights-do-you-have-to-collect-your-annual-bonus-if-you-are-fired/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Wednesday, June 26, 2013. What causes of action does an employee have against his employer when he is terminated prior to receiving his annual bonus? Is the employee entitled to the bonus as wages even though he was terminated? These are the
- [FIRED BECAUSE OF YOUR ASSOCIATION WITH A DISABLED PERSON: YOU NOW MAY HAVE A CAUSE OF ACTION FOR DISCRIMINATION](https://muccilegal.com/fired-because-of-your-association-with-a-disabled-person-you-now-may-have-a-cause-of-action-for-disc/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Employment Law on Wednesday, July 24, 2013.Massachusetts' antidiscrimination statute, G.L. c. 151B, §4(16), bars employment discrimination on the basis of handicap. Flagg v. AliMed, Inc., a recent Supreme Judicial Court case presented the question whether the antidiscrimination statute bars an employer from discriminating against its
- [Special Rules: The Family Medical Leave Act And School Employees](https://muccilegal.com/special-rules-the-family-medical-leave-act-and-school-employees/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Employment Law on Tuesday, December 3, 2013.Did you know that there are special rules under the Family Medical Leave Act ("FMLA") pertaining to school employees? These rules provide specific Federal protections for school employees requesting maternity, sickness or ill family member leave. These special rules
- [Policies against Tipping Allowed under Massachusetts Tips Act](https://muccilegal.com/policies-against-tipping-allowed-under-massachusetts-tips-act/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Employment Law on Wednesday, April 29, 2015.The Tips Act protects certain Massachusetts service employees from having to turn over their tips to their employers, but what happens to the money left by customers in spite of an employer's no tipping policy? This question was recently
- [Massachusetts Independent Contractor Statute Doesn't Apply to Real Estate Salespersons](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-independent-contractor-statute-doesnt-apply-to-real-estate-salespersons/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Employment Law on Monday, July 27, 2015.It is often financially advantageous for a company to classify individuals as independent contractors rather than employees, but the individuals lose the benefits and protections afforded to employees. Massachusetts law prohibits the misclassification of employees as independent contractors. The
- [Age Discrimination under Massachusetts and Federal Law](https://muccilegal.com/age-discrimination-under-massachusetts-and-federal-law/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Employment Law on Monday, September 28, 2015.Employees are protected from age discrimination by both Massachusetts law and the federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act. The First Circuit recently decided a case involving both in Santangelo v. New York Life Insurance Company. The plaintiff had been
- [Damages for Retaliation under the Massachusetts Wage Act](https://muccilegal.com/damages-for-retaliation-under-the-massachusetts-wage-act/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Employment Law on Thursday, March 31, 2016.The Massachusetts Wage Act protects employees' right to receive timely payment of their wages. The law requires that employers generally must pay employees weekly or bi-weekly wages within six or seven days of the end of the pay period,
- [Massachusetts Employment Retaliation Claims Can Mean Treble Damages](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-employment-retaliation-claims-can-mean-treble-damages/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Employment Law on Tuesday, June 7, 2016.Employee claims, whether based on allegations of wage and hour laws or discrimination, can sour a workplace. Nevertheless, retaliation against an employee who has made a complaint is not the answer. State and federal laws can make terminating an
- [Massachusetts Employee Prevails in Retroactive For-Cause Termination Case](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-employee-prevails-in-retroactive-for-cause-termination-case/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Employment Law on Wednesday, August 24, 2016. The termination of an employee is always complicated, but it is even more complex when the employee has a high level position and an employment contract. When the employment agreement sets out the circumstances under which the employment
- [Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Upholds FMLA Retaliation Verdict](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-supreme-judicial-court-upholds-fmla-retaliation-verdict/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Employment Law on Friday, September 16, 2016.Eligible employees may take unpaid leave for up to twelve weeks during a twelve-month period for "a serious health condition" that prevents the employee from performing her job functions, pursuant to the Family and Medical Leave Act ("FMLA"). 29
- [District of Massachusetts Transfers Employees' Case to District of Maryland Despite Wage Act Claims](https://muccilegal.com/district-of-massachusetts-transfers-employees-case-to-district-of-maryland-despite-wage-act-claims/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Employment Law on Monday, November 21, 2016.Both state and federal wage and hour laws protect employees' rights to receive payment of the wages due to them in a timely manner. In some cases, the court must determine which laws, including the laws of which states,
- [Disability Discrimination Claims Under Federal and Massachusetts Laws](https://muccilegal.com/disability-discrimination-claims-under-federal-and-massachusetts-laws/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Employment Law on Wednesday, December 14, 2016.The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) generally prohibits employment discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability. A qualified individual is a person who can perform the essential functions of his or her job, with or without reasonable
- [Setting the stage for post-divorce financial security](https://muccilegal.com/setting-the-stage-for-post-divorce-financial-security/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Monday, June 11, 2018. The end of a marriage comes with many changes, including financial ones. As part of the divorce process, each party works toward reducing the financial impact of it. Doing so involves more than just dividing marital assets. There are
- [Consider the pitfalls that could arise after a divorce](https://muccilegal.com/consider-the-pitfalls-that-could-arise-after-a-divorce/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Friday, June 15, 2018. Massachusetts couples may find it challenging to see the future as a marriage ends. The emotions that accompany a divorce may also make people worry more about the immediate future. This is helpful, but without looking further into the
- [What happens to the family pet in a divorce with children?](https://muccilegal.com/what-happens-to-the-family-pet-in-a-divorce-with-children/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Thursday, June 21, 2018. Massachusetts families are often more than just the parents and children. Many have pets that they consider to be part of the family. When it comes to divorce, figuring out what to do with the family pet may not
- [Breaking bad news: telling your kids about your divorce](https://muccilegal.com/breaking-bad-news-telling-your-kids-about-your-divorce/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Thursday, June 21, 2018. Sometimes marriages end amicably. Sometimes they end with anger, deception and hurt feelings. Regardless of whether you're viewing your impending separation from your spouse as a positive or negative transition, this change signifies the end of an important constant
- [Going through a divorce while living in the same house](https://muccilegal.com/going-through-a-divorce-while-living-in-the-same-house/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Monday, July 2, 2018. Even though the economy has made improvements in recent years, many Massachusetts homeowners continue to struggle with their mortgage loans. For couples who decide to divorce, this may mean not having the monetary resources to have separate living arrangements.
- [Divorce and the new tax law could impact retirement savings](https://muccilegal.com/divorce-and-the-new-tax-law-could-impact-retirement-savings/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Monday, July 9, 2018. Retirement and financial planning during marriage looks different than it does for newly single Massachusetts residents. After a divorce, many people find themselves facing an uphill battle when it comes to their finances, let alone retirement. It may be
- [Understanding how the court views your divorce issues](https://muccilegal.com/understanding-how-the-court-views-your-divorce-issues/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Wednesday, July 18, 2018. When the time comes to sit down and talk about resolving your marital issues, you may wonder whether you can work out a settlement with your future former spouse or will have to go to court. In order to
- [Dogs, divorce and decisions on what happens to the family pet](https://muccilegal.com/dogs-divorce-and-decisions-on-what-happens-to-the-family-pet/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Monday, September 3, 2018. The family dog is no longer just an animal used for protection or company. Many Massachusetts families view their dogs as members of the family. This makes deciding what happens to them in the event of a divorce a
- [Preparing to divide property in a Massachusetts divorce](https://muccilegal.com/preparing-to-divide-property-in-a-massachusetts-divorce/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Wednesday, November 7, 2018. Even if a Massachusetts couple has children, dividing their property will still be a major concern. Each party will want to begin his or her post-divorce life in the best financial place possible. For this reason, the parties will
- [Basic information can reduce the stress associated with divorce](https://muccilegal.com/basic-information-can-reduce-the-stress-associated-with-divorce/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Tuesday, November 20, 2018. Without a doubt, this is probably one of the most stressful times you have ever faced in your life. You decided to end your marriage and now face the divorce process. All you know about it may be what
- [Divorce is a stressful life-changing event. Don't go it alone](https://muccilegal.com/divorce-is-a-stressful-life-changing-event-dont-go-it-alone/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Wednesday, December 26, 2018. Your life is about to change in ways you cannot easily calculate. When you decided to divorce, you knew that it would be an arduous, stressful and emotional process. You may discuss your impending predicament with friends and loved
- [How you feel coming home at the end of the day could mean divorce](https://muccilegal.com/how-you-feel-coming-home-at-the-end-of-the-day-could-mean-divorce/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Tuesday, January 8, 2019. Every married couple, whether here in Massachusetts or elsewhere, has their issues. Disagreements will happen. It is how each couple handles them that makes the difference. When an individual dreads going home at the end of the day, then
- [What is driving 'gray divorce' across the country?](https://muccilegal.com/what-is-driving-gray-divorce-across-the-country/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Wednesday, January 30, 2019. After decades of marriage, many couples over the age of 50 here in Massachusetts and across the nation are deciding to go their separate ways. What is driving the gray divorce phenomenon gripping the country despite the fact that
- [Divorce does not have to follow the traditional path](https://muccilegal.com/divorce-does-not-have-to-follow-the-traditional-path/) - On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Thursday, February 14, 2019. Even as times have changed, television and movies continue to depict people ending their marriages in courtroom battles. This could make some Massachusetts couples who wish to divorce anxious and believe this will be their fate
- [Divorce can affect retirement plans even before age 50](https://muccilegal.com/divorce-can-affect-retirement-plans-even-before-age-50/) - On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Thursday, February 28, 2019. The statistics regarding the number of couples ending their marriages seems to focus on those age 39 and under and those age 50 and above. This does not adequately address those who ages are in between.
- [Women tend to initiate divorce more often than men](https://muccilegal.com/women-tend-to-initiate-divorce-more-often-than-men/) - On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Thursday, March 7, 2019. It may surprise Massachusetts residents to learn that many women are not happy in their marriages. In fact, they initiate divorce proceedings approximately 80 percent of the time. The news that a woman wants to end
- [A divorce can take a while, so ask for temporary orders](https://muccilegal.com/a-divorce-can-take-a-while-so-ask-for-temporary-orders/) - On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Divorce on Thursday, March 21, 2019. Ending a marriage whether here in Massachusetts or elsewhere is a process. Depending on the situation, it could take months to finalize a divorce. Life does not stop during this time, however. Bills still need to
- [Separate your digital lives during, if not before, a divorce](https://muccilegal.com/separate-your-digital-lives-during-if-not-before-a-divorce/) - On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucciposted in Divorce on Monday, April 22, 2019. Most married couples, whether here in Massachusetts or elsewhere, tend not to keep certain information private. One spouse may use the other spouse's computer, tablet or phone without thinking anything of it. Often, passwords are only protected from someone outside the relationship.
- [Baggage from before the marriage can lead to divorce](https://muccilegal.com/baggage-from-before-the-marriage-can-lead-to-divorce/) - On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucciposted in Divorce on Friday, April 26, 2019. Everyone had a life prior to marriage. During that time, some people, including many here in Massachusetts, went through some form of trauma. It's sometimes referred to as "baggage." After some time, a marriage may not survive the lingering effects of it.
- [Going to Jail Because the Mailman Delivered the Mail to the Wrong Address](https://muccilegal.com/going-to-jail-because-the-mailman-delivered-the-mail-to-the-wrong-address/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Criminal Law on Monday, June 10, 2013. Imagine going to jail for three months because the mailman delivered a package to the wrong address, and then having your lawsuit for negligence against the United States Postal Service dismissed by the United States District Court for
- [LANDLORDS BEWARE: NEW HOUSING RIGHTS FOR VICTIMS OF VIOLENT CRIMES](https://muccilegal.com/landlords-beware-new-housing-rights-for-victims-of-violent-crimes/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Criminal Law on Thursday, December 19, 2013. There are new housing rights for victims of domestic violence, rape, sexual assault and stalking. Victims of these crimes now have increased rights to: 1) break a lease; 2) have apartment locks changed; 3) to not experience retaliation
- [Why The Supreme Judicial Court Ruled That The Disturbing Practice Of Upskirting Is Legal](https://muccilegal.com/why-the-supreme-judicial-court-ruled-that-the-disturbing-practice-of-upskirting-is-legal/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Criminal Law on Wednesday, March 5, 2014. In a decision that will certainly make the public wonder what were they thinking, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled that "upskirting" is not a violation of Massachusetts' law. After examining the Court's decision, it appears that the
- [Massachusetts Erroneous Conviction Statute and Insufficient Evidence Cases](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-erroneous-conviction-statute-and-insufficient-evidence-cases/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Criminal Law on Monday, April 20, 2015. Massachusetts law allows a person who has been the subject of an erroneous conviction to pursue a claim for compensation. To recover, a person must first show that he or she is eligible as a member of the
- [Single Act or Separate Act: Duplicative Convictions on Lesser Included Offenses in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/single-act-or-separate-act-duplicative-convictions-on-lesser-included-offenses-in-massachusetts/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Criminal Law on Thursday, October 15, 2015. The Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution provides that no one shall "be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb." Most people understand that the Fifth Amendment protects a person
- [No Right to Counsel for Massachusetts Defendant While Deciding Whether to Take a Breathalyzer Test](https://muccilegal.com/no-right-to-counsel-for-massachusetts-defendant-while-deciding-whether-to-take-a-breathalyzer-test/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Criminal Law on Tuesday, August 30, 2016. Pursuant to the Sixth and Fourteenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution and Article 12 of the Massachusetts Declaration of Rights, a criminal defendant has the right to counsel at "critical stages" of the prosecution. The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial
- [Should the language in contracts be simpler easier to use?](https://muccilegal.com/should-the-language-in-contracts-be-simpler-easier-to-use/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Contracts on Wednesday, July 25, 2018. Massachusetts business owners often enter into relationships with other businesses. When doing so, they more than likely enter into contracts governing those relationships. Even though contracts require a certain amount of legal language in order to ensure they hold
- [Contracts need to include certain elements to remain valid](https://muccilegal.com/contracts-need-to-include-certain-elements-to-remain-valid/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Contracts on Friday, August 24, 2018. When entering into an agreement with another party, it should be in writing. That may seem like some of the most obvious advice when it comes to contracts, but some Massachusetts residents may understand why it may need to
- [Disputes over contracts could stop people in their tracks](https://muccilegal.com/disputes-over-contracts-could-stop-people-in-their-tracks/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Contracts on Thursday, September 6, 2018. Business disputes are nothing new. It would more than likely be nearly impossible to find any two people who always get along, whether here in Massachusetts or elsewhere. For this reason, contracts are an integral part of the business
- [When it comes to contracts, what does it mean to breach one?](https://muccilegal.com/when-it-comes-to-contracts-what-does-it-mean-to-breach-one/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Contracts on Monday, September 24, 2018. Massachusetts business owners tend to form relationships with vendors, suppliers and other businesses that help them thrive. Cementing those relationships often includes the use of contracts. Owners have more than likely heard about "breaches" of contracts, but may not
- [Making sure customers fulfill their part of business contracts](https://muccilegal.com/making-sure-customers-fulfill-their-part-of-business-contracts/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Contracts on Thursday, November 1, 2018. When entering into an agreement with a client or customer, a Massachusetts business owner expects to be compensated for the goods or services provided. Payment is a big part of business contracts. When those payments don't come, it interferes
- [Contracts: Massachusetts police chief sues town, selectmen](https://muccilegal.com/contracts-massachusetts-police-chief-sues-town-selectmen/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Contracts on Monday, December 3, 2018. A disgruntled Massachusetts police chief is suing the town for which he works along with a couple selectmen who opted not to renew his contract. The chief, who works for the town of Milford, about 25 miles southwest of
- [Disputes with cable companies over contracts seem to occur yearly](https://muccilegal.com/disputes-with-cable-companies-over-contracts-seem-to-occur-yearly/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Contracts on Wednesday, January 2, 2019. It seems as though every year cable viewers here in Massachusetts and elsewhere could lose the ability to watch cable channels they rely on for news, sports and other entertainment. At the end of 2018, those customers were at risk
- [Demand letters: The first step in collecting on unpaid contracts](https://muccilegal.com/demand-letters-the-first-step-in-collecting-on-unpaid-contracts/) - On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Contracts on Wednesday, February 6, 2019. Part of doing business is getting paid for products or services. When Massachusetts businesses encounter clients or customers who fail to pay on their contracts, a friendly reminder call or email may not be enough. If
- [What are your legal options when contracts aren't fulfilled?](https://muccilegal.com/what-are-your-legal-options-when-contracts-arent-fulfilled/) - On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Contracts on Wednesday, April 10, 2019. Massachusetts business owners enter into agreements with other parties for goods and services all the time. More often than not, both parties fulfill their responsibilities under those contracts, and everyone goes about their business. Unfortunately, not
- [Is Your Health Club Violating Massachusetts' Consumer Protection Laws?](https://muccilegal.com/is-your-health-club-violating-massachusetts-consumer-protection-laws/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Consumer Protection on Monday, March 4, 2013. Many Bostonians belong to health clubs, wellness centers, yoga centers or sports clubs while many others, at the very least, inquire about memberships. Did you know, in Massachusetts, there are specific legal protections for individuals who are considering
- [The Collection of Zip Codes by Gas Stations and Massachusetts Consumer Protection](https://muccilegal.com/the-collection-of-zip-codes-by-gas-stations-and-massachusetts-consumer-protection/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Consumer Protection on Tuesday, August 4, 2015. Massachusetts has enacted laws to protect consumers, including a law that prohibits a business from requiring personal identification information, other than that required by the issuer of the credit card, on the credit card transaction form. Mass. Gen.
- [Specially Fabricated Goods: The Fabricator's Rights to Lien](https://muccilegal.com/specially-fabricated-goods-the-fabricators-rights-to-lien/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Monday, January 14, 2013. Recently, we have seen an increase in the number of purchasers of specially fabricated goods after the goods have been fabricated refuse delivery of the order and/or abscond without paying leaving many fabricators of these specialized goods wondering
- [Signed Contracts Are the Only Path to Support Mechanic's Liens](https://muccilegal.com/signed-contracts-are-the-only-path-to-support-mechanics-liens/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Wednesday, January 30, 2013. The importance of Massachusetts contractors and material suppliers having signed written agreement with their customers before supplying any labor/materials was recently highlighted by the Massachusetts Appellate Division in Petrucelli v. Barrios.In Petrucelli v. Barrios, Petrucelli, a general contractor,
- [Appeals Court Eases the Restriction on Condominium Associations to Bring Construction Defect Claims Against Contractors and Developers](https://muccilegal.com/appeals-court-eases-the-restriction-on-condominium-associations-to-bring-construction-defect-claims/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Friday, February 15, 2013. In a significant opinion, the Massachusetts Appeals Court has made it easier for condominium associations to recover for common area construction defects. In Wyman v. Ayer Properties, LLC, the Appeals Court held that the economic loss doctrine did
- [Home Improvement Contractors Beware: Your Arbitration Clause May Be In Peril](https://muccilegal.com/home-improvement-contractors-beware-your-arbitration-clause-may-be-in-peril/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Wednesday, March 27, 2013. Does your arbitration clause comply with Massachusetts' Home Improvement Contractor statute? If not, you may find yourself precluded from arbitration. Home Improvement Contractors should review their standard contract terms, specifically any terms regarding arbitration in light of the
- [District Court of Massachusetts Finds General Liability Policy Doesn't Cover Injury to Sub-Subcontractor Employee](https://muccilegal.com/district-court-of-massachusetts-finds-general-liability-policy-doesnt-cover-injury-to-sub-subcontrac/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Thursday, June 16, 2016. It is important for any business to be appropriately insured against loss and liability. A failure to have sufficient insurance can result in the business paying for not only the damages but also the expenses of litigation out-of-pocket.
- [Massachusetts Contractor May Be Liable for Building Code Violation at Owner's Request](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-contractor-may-be-liable-for-building-code-violation-at-owners-request/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Tuesday, June 21, 2016.Massachusetts law protects homeowners from contractors who violate the safety provisions of the building code. Unfortunately, meeting safety requirements can add to the expense of a construction or home improvement project. Homeowners may sometimes ask contractors to cut corners
- [The types of defects seen in construction law matters](https://muccilegal.com/the-types-of-defects-seen-in-construction-law-matters/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Friday, August 17, 2018. Massachusetts residents expect that their property is well built. When it becomes apparent that defects in a structure exist, most owners will turn to the builder for answers. However, different types of defects exist in construction law, and
- [How do indemnity claueses fit into construction law?](https://muccilegal.com/how-do-indemnity-claueses-fit-into-construction-law/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Tuesday, September 11, 2018. Every project is different, so every contract often is as well. This includes the indemnity clauses put into construction contracts here in Massachusetts and elsewhere. It may be necessary to look to current construction law to determine what
- [Looking for a construction contractor? Beware of scammers](https://muccilegal.com/looking-for-a-construction-contractor-beware-of-scammers/) - Looking for a construction contractor? Beware of scammers On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Wednesday, October 10, 2018. Many Massachusetts residents want to make their homes their own. This may involve doing some renovations that require the help of a construction contractor. In other instances, some sort of
- [Construction law issues between contractors and subcontractors](https://muccilegal.com/construction-law-issues-between-contractors-and-subcontractors/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Thursday, November 29, 2018. In many cases, when it comes to building, demolition and renovation, Massachusetts general contractors and subcontractors appear to have a united front in dealing with owners and developers. Behind the scenes, things may not be quite as tranquil, however.
- [Construction law issues: Stopping work during a dispute](https://muccilegal.com/construction-law-issues-stopping-work-during-a-dispute/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Wednesday, December 19, 2018. Massachusetts general contractors who work for the federal government may want to take some time to understand how stop-work orders affect their contracts. The government often relies on this aspect of construction law during a dispute. The theory
- [Mechanic's liens must meet construction law requirements](https://muccilegal.com/mechanics-liens-must-meet-construction-law-requirements/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Thursday, January 17, 2019. Subcontractors, whether here in Massachusetts or elsewhere, expect to be paid for the work they do. When that does not happen, one of their legal remedies is to file a mechanic's lien. However, if it does not meet
- [Residential construction law protects consumers](https://muccilegal.com/residential-construction-law-protects-consumers/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Wednesday, January 23, 2019. Owning a home here in Massachusetts or elsewhere can be rewarding. When that home needs improvements, renovations or repairs, you entrust what may be your largest asset into the hands of a contractor. Even though he or she
- [Construction law issues: Staying on target to meet deadlines](https://muccilegal.com/construction-law-issues-staying-on-target-to-meet-deadlines/) - On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Thursday, March 14, 2019. Bidding on building contracts here in Massachusetts requires understanding the potential client's needs, including deadlines. One of the biggest complaints in construction law is delays. Making goals in order to stay on target to meet
- [Construction law issues: Weather delays](https://muccilegal.com/construction-law-issues-weather-delays/) - On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Wednesday, March 27, 2019. Even meteorologists cannot accurately predict the weather beyond a certain point. Determining whether any delay-causing weather will occur during a Massachusetts construction project that will last at least months is impossible. This unknown requires careful
- [News And Thoughts On The Law In And Around Boston](https://muccilegal.com/news-and-thoughts-on-the-law-in-and-around-boston/) - The importance of online reviews in hiring a construction company On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Construction Law on Wednesday, May 8, 2019. When Massachusetts residents decide to buy a new car, the often get on the internet and do some research. They read online reviews, check out
- [A crucial part of child custody: The parenting schedule](https://muccilegal.com/a-crucial-part-of-child-custody-the-parenting-schedule/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Child Custody on Thursday, June 7, 2018. During a marriage, dividing parenting time is not an issue. Both parents live in the home and often spend time with the children together. When a Massachusetts couple divorces, the issue of spending time with the children becomes
- [A parenting plan can account for numerous child custody issues](https://muccilegal.com/a-parenting-plan-can-account-for-numerous-child-custody-issues/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Child Custody on Thursday, July 12, 2018. When Massachusetts couples divorce, one of their biggest concerns will more than likely be how to continue parenting. Their relationships are probably not in the best place during this time, and it may be challenging to envision a
- [Understanding what child custody means before negotiations begin](https://muccilegal.com/understanding-what-child-custody-means-before-negotiations-begin/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Child Custody on Friday, August 3, 2018. Massachusetts parents who face divorce usually want to shield their children from it as much as possible. The problem is that there is no way to do so completely. What parents can do is negotiate the best child
- [Giving kids what they need through child custody plans](https://muccilegal.com/giving-kids-what-they-need-through-child-custody-plans/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Child Custody on Wednesday, September 19, 2018. While it is a good idea for Massachusetts parents to assure their kids that they are not responsible for the end of their parents' marriage, the kids still need more information and assurance than that. This is the
- [Child custody issues take a front seat in Chris Pratt's divorce](https://muccilegal.com/child-custody-issues-take-a-front-seat-in-chris-pratts-divorce/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Child Custody on Wednesday, November 14, 2018. Massachusetts moviegoers and TV viewers probably noticed that it appears that some celebrity couples who have kids are taking steps to make sure that their divorces do not interfere with their parenting responsibilities. The latest couple to join
- [Does this child custody arrangement work well temporarily?](https://muccilegal.com/does-this-child-custody-arrangement-work-well-temporarily/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Child Custody on Tuesday, December 11, 2018. Some sources say that bird nesting works well for many families, at least on a temporary basis. This child custody arrangement seems to help children adjust to the fact that their parents are divorcing. It could also help
- [Understanding how the court would decide child custody](https://muccilegal.com/understanding-how-the-court-would-decide-child-custody/) - On behalf of Richard Mucci of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Child Custody on Wednesday, April 24, 2019. When Massachusetts residents decide to divorce, one of their primary concerns is how to coordinate parenting time. These days, many couples choose to work out an agreement on their own, which often makes the situation
- [Landlords Beware: Court Expands Massachusetts Building Code Strict Liability Standard to Mixed Used Residential/Commercial Buildings](https://muccilegal.com/landlords-beware-court-expands-massachusetts-building-code-strict-liability-standard-to-mixed-used-r/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Friday, January 4, 2013. Landlords beware a Housing Court Judge has ruled that an owner of a mixed used residential/commercial building is "strictly liable" for a drunk tenant's fall through a defective porch guardrail. The decision in Sheehan v. Weaver makes a
- [The J. Geils Band's Name "Musta Got Lost" In Court](https://muccilegal.com/the-j-geils-bands-name-musta-got-lost-in-court/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Monday, March 18, 2013. Many businesses in Massachusetts are named after one of their founders or partners. For example, "Frank's Steakhouse," "Comella's," and "Don's Hardware Store," but who owns the name (even your own name) if there is a falling out between
- [Is Your Arbitration Dispute Resolution Policy In Your Employee Handbook Enforceable?](https://muccilegal.com/is-your-arbitration-dispute-resolution-policy-in-your-employee-handbook-enforceable/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Tuesday, April 23, 2013. Employers beware: you may be precluding your rights to arbitration if you maintain unilateral discretion to alter the terms of an employee handbook. In Domenichetti v. The Salter School, LLC, et al., Judge Saylor of the United States
- [MARKETING AGREEMENTS BASED ON COMMISSIONS WITH OUTSIDE VENDORS-DOES YOUR BUSINESS UNDERSTAND THE TIME LIMITS?](https://muccilegal.com/marketing-agreements-based-on-commissions-with-outside-vendors-does-your-business-understand-the-tim/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Monday, May 13, 2013. Does your business really know the time limits of payments in its marketing agreements based on commissions with outside vendors? Your business should scrutinize these agreements closely and understand the time limits, especially after a recent decision by
- [SJC Expands The Geographical Reach Of Laws Classifying Individuals As Independent Contractors To Individuals Working Outside The Commonwealth](https://muccilegal.com/sjc-expands-the-geographical-reach-of-laws-classifying-individuals-as-independent-contractors-to-ind/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Friday, May 17, 2013. Massachusetts employers beware: the Supreme Judicial Court has ruled that out-of-state individuals who live and work for a company headquartered in Massachusetts may bring an action in Massachusetts courts to enforce rights under Massachusetts independent contractor, wage and
- [Commercial Landlords Beware: Listen to Your Tenant's Complaints About Defects As A Court Has Ruled that You Can Be Liable For Double or Treble Damages](https://muccilegal.com/commercial-landlords-beware-listen-to-your-tenants-complaints-about-defects-as-a-court-has-ruled-tha/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Friday, July 12, 2013. In a stern warning to commercial landlords, a Superior Court judge in Kuong, et al. v. Wong, et al., has ruled that a commercial landlord could be held liable for double or treble damages and attorney's fees under
- [Non-Solicitation Agreements And Contact Initiated By Former Customers: Can You Accept Their Business?](https://muccilegal.com/non-solicitation-agreements-and-contact-initiated-by-former-customers-can-you-accept-their-business/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Tuesday, September 24, 2013. Do you have the right to conduct business with a former customer who initiates contact with you if you signed a non-solicitation agreement while working for a corporation, and you leave to work for a competitor? This is
- [The Statutory Requirements For A Personal Guarantee: Don't Compromise Your Business' Rights To Enforce](https://muccilegal.com/the-statutory-requirements-for-a-personal-guarantee-dont-compromise-your-business-rights-to-enforce/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Thursday, November 21, 2013. What are the statutory requirements for a valid and enforceable personal guarantee to answer for the debt of another? Independence Park, Inc. v. Christy's of Cape Cod, LLC, et al., a recent Massachusetts Court of Appeals case reiterates
- [Associational Discrimination In The Workplace: Can Claims Extend To Those Who Advocate For The Disabled?](https://muccilegal.com/associational-discrimination-in-the-workplace-can-claims-extend-to-those-who-advocate-for-the-disabl/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Tuesday, November 26, 2013. Can a special education coordinator pursue an associational discrimination suit against her employer school district that allegedly fired her in retaliation for her advocacy of disabled students? This is exactly the question a Judge in the U.S. District
- [Strict Prevailing Wage Laws Can Equal Costly Mistakes](https://muccilegal.com/strict-prevailing-wage-laws-can-equal-costly-mistakes/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Thursday, January 2, 2014. Recently, the Supreme Judicial Court affirmed that the Massachusetts prevailing wage statute is a strict liability statute and mistake or clerical error is no defense. This means that the intent of the company is not a factor in
- [Enforcement of Non-Compete Agreements When Damages Are Incalculable](https://muccilegal.com/enforcement-of-non-compete-agreements-when-damages-are-incalculable/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Monday, February 17, 2014. Recently, the Appeals Court of Massachusetts had to decide whether a preliminary injunction blocking a Defendant from accepting a new position with a competitor was properly issued in litigation to enforce a non-compete agreement in the pharmaceutical industry.
- [Are You Personally Liable for Contracts You Sign For Your Employer?](https://muccilegal.com/are-you-personally-liable-for-contracts-you-sign-for-your-employer/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Friday, February 28, 2014. Can an employee be held personally liable for executing a contract on behalf of his or her employer if the employer fails to pay? Recently, the Massachusetts Appellate Division decided this issue in Yellow Book, Inc. v. Tocci.In
- [Can An Online Reviewer Be Sued For Defamation For Posting A Negative Review?](https://muccilegal.com/can-an-online-reviewer-be-sued-for-defamation-for-posting-a-negative-review/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Friday, March 28, 2014. As online review sites such as Yelp continue to grow in popularity, many users may wonder if a negative post can subject the user to a defamation lawsuit. This issue was recently addressed by the United States District
- [GRONK: A Lesson in Trademark Infringement](https://muccilegal.com/gronk-a-lesson-in-trademark-infringement/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Tuesday, April 29, 2014. Rob Gronkowski is commonly known by his nickname GRONK. But did you ever have a brainstorm for a popular t-shirt featuring GRONK or any other Boston athletes' nickname? Well if you did, you should check the trademark database
- [Employers Beware: When A Lateral Transfer of an Employee Constitutes An Adverse Employment Action](https://muccilegal.com/employers-beware-when-a-lateral-transfer-of-an-employee-constitutes-an-adverse-employment-action/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Monday, May 5, 2014. A Massachusetts Court recently decided that a lateral transfer of an employee could be considered an "adverse employment action" for the purposes of a retaliation claim despite no wage or benefits cuts. In Kelley v. Commonwealth, et al.,
- [Equitable Adjustments in Massachusetts Public Construction Contracts](https://muccilegal.com/equitable-adjustments-in-massachusetts-public-construction-contracts/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Tuesday, May 5, 2015. Sometimes businesses must bid on jobs and sign contracts while there is still some level of uncertainty regarding the extent of work that must be performed and how much it will cost. Massachusetts law allows a contractor entering
- [Formally Ending Business Arrangements in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/formally-ending-business-arrangements-in-massachusetts/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Tuesday, September 22, 2015. Things can get ugly when a business relationship breaks down. To avoid problems, when parties decide to stop doing business together, it is best for them to formally terminate any agreements, dissolve any businesses, and try to reach
- [Who Can Sign? Authority Of Corporate Officers Of Charities In Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/who-can-sign-authority-of-corporate-officers-of-charities-in-massachusetts/) - Who Can Sign? Authority Of Corporate Officers Of Charities In Massachusetts On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Wednesday, December 9, 2015. Like for-profit businesses, charities also have corporate boards and corporate officers. The board and officers of a charity have a fiduciary duty in conducting the charity's affairs.
- [Massachusetts Statute of Frauds Doesn't Bar Promissory Estoppel](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-statute-of-frauds-doesnt-bar-promissory-estoppel/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Tuesday, February 23, 2016. The Statute of Frauds, codified at Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 259 Section 1, requires that certain contracts be in writing in order to be enforceable through the courts. Among those contracts are land sales, agreements that will not
- [Massachusetts Telecommuters and Jurisdiction Over Out-of-State Employers](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-telecommuters-and-jurisdiction-over-out-of-state-employers/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Wednesday, March 9, 2016. Many employees now telecommute or work from home for businesses that may be down the street or across the country. When disputes arise in employment arrangements in which the company and its employee are in different states, the
- [Manufacturer's All Risk Insurance Doesn't Cover Loss of the Product due to "Faulty Workmanship"](https://muccilegal.com/manufacturers-all-risk-insurance-doesnt-cover-loss-of-the-product-due-to-faulty-workmanship/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Tuesday, April 12, 2016. Sometimes things go wrong in the performance of a contract. A failure to meet contractual requirements may result in a significant financial loss. Before making an agreement that it has not met required standards, a party should examine
- [Contracting with Massachusetts Resident Not Sufficient for Jurisdiction](https://muccilegal.com/contracting-with-massachusetts-resident-not-sufficient-for-jurisdiction/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Thursday, April 21, 2016. Businesses frequently contract with other businesses on the other side of the country, or even on the other side of the world. Although most business arrangements do not result in litigation, jurisdiction can be very important when they
- [Massachusetts Arbitration Required Only for Claims Covered by Arbitration Agreement](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-arbitration-required-only-for-claims-covered-by-arbitration-agreement/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Business Litigation on Thursday, July 7, 2016. Many businesses include alternative dispute resolution provisions as a standard part of their contracts. Sometimes, however, one party would prefer to litigate its claims against the other. Under Massachusetts law, a party cannot be required to arbitrate any
- [The court's considerations when it comes to awarding alimony](https://muccilegal.com/the-courts-considerations-when-it-comes-to-awarding-alimony/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Alimony on Tuesday, August 28, 2018. After being married for a number of years, one member of a couple may have become used to a standard of living while staying home with the kids, among other reasons. If the marriage ends, that Massachusetts resident may
- [Alimony considerations could push divorce filings up now](https://muccilegal.com/alimony-considerations-could-push-divorce-filings-up-now/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Alimony on Wednesday, October 3, 2018. The last three months of the year have begun, which means that many Massachusetts residents may be trying to determine what matters they need to wrap up before the end of the fiscal year. This endeavor took on more
- [Some general facts about alimony](https://muccilegal.com/some-general-facts-about-alimony/) - On behalf of Law Offices of Richard Mucci posted in Alimony on Wednesday, October 17, 2018. Massachusetts residents who decide to end their marriages may need some direction, information and guidance regarding the issues that will need resolving during the divorce. One of those issues revolves around whether one party will need to pay alimony
- [Restraining Orders in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/restraining-orders-in-massachusetts-2/) - If you have been physically abused or threatened by someone you know well, you should be able to get a restraining order to protect you from further abuse. Restraining orders, also called abuse protection orders, protective orders or 209A orders, are court orders which instruct the person who you are afraid of to stop abusing
- [Employment Termination Laws in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/employment-termination-laws-in-massachusetts/) - Most employees in Massachusetts are employed on hourly wages. In Massachusetts, like most other states in the U.S., they will be employed under at-will employment conditions. The exceptions are employees who are on salaries and waged employees who have an employment contract which more explicitly outlines the terms of employment, including employment termination. At-will employment
- [Insurance Coverage for Damage Caused by Trees in Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/insurance-coverage-for-damage-caused-by-trees-in-massachusetts/) - Trees can add to the charm of a property. They can provide shade, add to the property’s value, and can provide nuts or fruit in season or a place for kids to hide or build a tree house. Trees can also cause damage when branches fall off or the tree is uprooted in a storm
- [Are You Aware of Changes to Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave?](https://muccilegal.com/are-you-aware-of-changes-to-massachusetts-paid-family-and-medical-leave/) - Last year, the Massachusetts government made changes to its Paid Family and Medical Leave (PMFL) program. You should have been advised of these changes by your employer, but if you have not been made aware of changes to PFML or are confused about how you can make use of PFML or even what PFML is

## Pages

- [Home](https://muccilegal.com/) - Full-Service Law Firm Serving The Greater Boston MA Area. The Winchester MA Based Law Offices Of Richard Mucci Can Help You In A Wide Variety Of Legal Cases.
- [Contact](https://muccilegal.com/contact/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]Contact Law Offices Of Richard Mucci While this website provides general information, it does not constitute legal advice. The best way to get guidance on your specific legal issue is to contact a lawyer. To schedule a meeting with an attorney, please call 781-729-3999 or complete the intake form
- [Mediation Lawyer in Massachusetts: Your Path to Resolution](https://muccilegal.com/mediation-lawyer/) - Attorney Richard Mucci specializes in providing professional mediation services to help you resolve disputes efficiently and amicably. Whether you're dealing with family matters, business conflicts, or any other disputes, Attorney Mucci's mediation services are designed to find common ground and foster mutual agreements. What is Mediation? Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process where a
- [Business Litigation](https://muccilegal.com/business-litigation-lawyer/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||0px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]Effective And Efficient Business Litigation Solutions for Massachusetts Businesses A Massachusetts business snarled in a legal dispute needs an effective and efficient resolution that achieves its objectives and
- [Thank You](https://muccilegal.com/thank-you/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”50vh” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”15vh||15vh||true|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]Thanks for contacting us! We will get in touch with you shortly.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
- [Purchase & Sale Agreements/Real Estate Closings](https://muccilegal.com/real-estate/purchase-sale-agreements-real-estate-closings/) - How To Prevent Issues With Home Purchase And Sale Agreements Buying or selling a home is a major financial transaction. Having a lawyer available to guide you through the process and provide you advice may be critical to your understanding of the complex transaction and assuring that your interests and rights are protected at all
- [Landlord-Tenant Disputes](https://muccilegal.com/real-estate/landlord-tenant-disputes/) - Experienced Advocacy For Renters And Landlords Alike Attorney Richard Mucci has established a reputation in Woburn County as a savvy and effective landlord-tenant dispute attorney. He is experienced in representing both landlords and tenants in these situations. As a result, he has developed keen insight into both sides of a landlord and tenant dispute, which
- [Condominium Law](https://muccilegal.com/real-estate/condominium-law/) - Meeting The Legal Needs Of Condominium Associations Condominium associations typically operate like small businesses. As a small business, an association needs a lawyer to advise it on day-to-day operations, legal disputes and questions surrounding condominium law.Attorney Richard Mucci is an experienced real estate attorney who advises condominium owners and associations throughout Middlesex County and Woburn
- [Adverse Possession & Right-Of-Way Disputes](https://muccilegal.com/real-estate/adverse-possession-right-of-way-disputes/) - Solving Property Disputes Real estate disputes involving claims of adverse possession or right-of-way disputes are serious legal issues, since they may impair your use and ownership of property. These disputes are often complex, litigious matters where, as issues emerge, the timely engagement of an experienced real estate litigation attorney will improve your chances for a
- [Real Estate](https://muccilegal.com/real-estate/) - A Proactive Approach To Avoiding Real Estate Issues The Law Offices of Richard Mucci represents buyers, property owners, managers and investors in a broad array of real estate matters. Real estate is an important investment, and any conflicts relating to it can escalate into laborious and costly disputes.These conflicts are often preventable. With proper planning
- [Probate Lawyer](https://muccilegal.com/probate-lawyer/) - A Probate Lawyer To Guide You Through The Process If arrangements have not been made for the future of an estate before its owner passes away, distribution of all assets will be handled through the probate process. A probate lawyer can help you navigate through this difficult time.Winchester based Attorney Richard Mucci assists families living
- [Products Liability & Defective Products](https://muccilegal.com/personal-injury-lawyer/products-liability-defective-products/) - Injured By A Malfunctioning Product? We Can Help. Unfortunately, there are products being sold to consumers that are flawed in design, manufactured in error and defectively marketed. Every year, these defective products injure and kill thousands of individuals.If you or your loved one have been injured, and you know or suspect it was the result
- [Premises Liability](https://muccilegal.com/personal-injury-lawyer/premises-liability/) - Business Owners Have a Duty To Ensure Their Property Is Safe If you are injured on another's property as a result of unsafe or hazardous conditions, you may have a claim to recover damages for your injuries. Property owners, landlords, businesses, restaurants, bars and property managers have a duty to maintain their properties so that
- [Motor Vehicle Accidents](https://muccilegal.com/personal-injury-lawyer/motor-vehicle-accidents/) - Injured In A Car Accident? You Could Be Compensated For Your Medical Bills. Car accidents can happen at any time and in any place. Attorney Richard Mucci has helped adults, children and families injured in car crashes recover compensation for their injuries. At first, as the victim of a car crash you may be resistant
- [Personal Injury](https://muccilegal.com/personal-injury-lawyer/) - Attorney Mucci Has A Proven Track Record Of Aiding The Injured in Personal Injuries cases in Greater Boston MA Personal injury lawyer Richard Mucci has the expertise, knowledge and determination to ensure that you recover appropriate and just damages for your misfortune when serious personal injuries befall you. Attorney Mucci will provide you personalized services
- [Family Law - Divorce Lawyer](https://muccilegal.com/divorce-lawyer/) - Benefit From A Skilled Divorce Lawyer For The Guidance You Need To Get Through A Divorce In Massachusetts Divorce is often difficult and emotional. Winchester MA based divorce lawyer Richard Mucci understands these factors, and he recognizes that each client has different needs and priorities related to their divorce in Massachusetts. He is committed to
- [Estate Planning](https://muccilegal.com/estate-planning/) - Estate Planning Attorney To Help You Plan For Your Future, And Future Generations An estate planning attorney can help you with your estate planning. Estate planning is sometimes an uncomfortable subject, but it is a very important activity that demands thoroughness, sensitivity and creativity. Estate planning Attorney Richard Mucci understands the complexities of estate planning
- [Wage And Hour Claims](https://muccilegal.com/employment-lawyer/wage-and-hour-claims/) - We Understand Both Sides Of Wage And Hour Claims And Will Fight For You Every employee has a right to get paid for the work they perform. But what do you do if your check is not for the right amount? What if you never receive the check? What if you are an employer who
- [Sexual Harassment](https://muccilegal.com/employment-lawyer/sexual-harassment/) - Representing Employees And Employers During A Sexual Harassment Case in Massachusetts Employers facing accusations of sexual harassment need immediate legal representation to protect their legal rights and to fairly respond to these claims. Employees victimized by an employer's sexual advances in the workplace are often embarrassed, frustrated and confused. They need a trusted, confidential, legal
- [Prevailing Wage Rate Disputes](https://muccilegal.com/employment-lawyer/prevailing-wage-rate-disputes/) - You Are Owed The Prevailing Wage Rate. We Can Represent You When There Is A Dispute. Contractors working on the majority of public works projects must pay their employees the prevailing wage rate. Often, contractors who violate the prevailing wage laws can find themselves in a challenging and formidable legal dispute.The Law Offices of Richard
- [Noncompete, Nonsolicitation And Nondisclosure Agreements](https://muccilegal.com/employment-lawyer/non-compete-non-solicitation-and-non-disclosure-agreements/) - Legal Assistance When You Are Facing Noncompete, Nonsolicitation Or Nondisclosure Agreements Companies use noncompete, nonsolicitation and nondisclosure agreements to protect their business practices, confidential information and interests when an employee separates from the company. Attorney Richard Mucci is experienced in drafting, evaluating and negotiating these agreements. He also represents individuals and businesses in disputes relating
- [Discrimination](https://muccilegal.com/employment-lawyer/discrimination/) - We Take Discrimination Claims Seriously. We Can Represent Employers And Employees. Employers facing accusations of discrimination need immediate effective and efficient legal representation. Employees who feel victimized in the workplace are often frustrated, confused and want justice.Attorney Richard Mucci understands discrimination and its legal ramifications. His broad experience in representing and advising both sides —
- [Employment Lawyer](https://muccilegal.com/employment-lawyer/) - A Comprehensive Employment Lawyer For Employees And Employers in Massachusetts Employment Lawyer Mucci has a strong experience in how workplace disputes in Massachusetts such as workplace discrimination, wrongful termination or unpaid wage to list a few can cause undue hardship to employees. Massachusetts employment lawyer Richard Mucci understands how employment law disputes can be protracted and detrimental
- [Theft Crimes](https://muccilegal.com/criminal-defense-attorney/theft-crimes/) - Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney For All Theft Crime Representation in Massachusetts Any crime that involves the taking of property of another person is categorized as a theft crime. Massachusetts has a variety of different theft crimes, and the charges can range from a simple shoplifting to a complex larceny by scheme. There is also a
- [Motor Vehicle Crimes](https://muccilegal.com/criminal-defense-attorney/motor-vehicle-crimes/) - All Motor Vehicle Crimes Carry Serious Penalties — We Can Help Being charged with a motor vehicle offense may be confusing and perplexing, as some offenses are civil in nature while others are more serious criminal matters. Sometimes a police officer's subjective opinion can make the difference between facing a civil infraction versus a criminal
- [Drunk Driving - DUI](https://muccilegal.com/criminal-defense-attorney/drunk-driving-dui/) - Do Not Let Police Infringe On Your Rights During Drunk Driving Arrests In Massachusetts If you have been arrested in Massachusetts for drunk driving you have rights. A charge of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) is a serious matter with potentially serious penalties. DUI penalties regularly include an immediate loss of license, fines,
- [Drug Crimes](https://muccilegal.com/criminal-defense-attorney/drug-crimes/) - Strict Drug Crime Laws In Massachusetts Mean Strict Penalties And Consequences Massachusetts has strict drug laws that can seriously impact and disrupt your life, and are a cause for concern, even for a first-time offense. Being arrested for a violation of a Massachusetts drug law may feel overwhelming.If you or a loved one has been
- [Assault & Battery](https://muccilegal.com/criminal-defense-attorney/assault-battery/) - Strong Defense And Case Strategies When You Are Accused Of Assault in Massachusetts. Assault and battery is a crime against a person that often invokes powerful emotions for all parties involved. People customarily think of it as a deliberate punch or kick, but any intentional touching of a person without their consent can be classified
- [Criminal Defense Attorney](https://muccilegal.com/criminal-defense-attorney/) - A Skilled Massachusetts Defense Attorney Who Protects Your Rights — And Your Future As a former assistant district attorney at the Middlesex County District Attorney’s Office and supervisor of the Lowell MA and Framingham MA district courts, criminal defense attorney Richard Mucci has extensive knowledge and experience to assist clients in Winchester and surrounding cities in
- [Owner-Contractor Disputes](https://muccilegal.com/construction-lawyer/contractor-dispute-lawyer/) - Representing the Needs of Owners and Contractors During a Contractor Dispute in Massachusetts A contractor dispute is often the cause of delays in construction projects. Owners & contractors litigations are unfortunately commonly part of the construction process. Often, an experienced construction law attorney can achieve common ground and keep the construction project moving toward the
- [Mechanic's Liens](https://muccilegal.com/construction-lawyer/mechanic-s-liens/) - Mechanic's Liens Can Ensure You Get The Money You Are Owed Secure your rights against businesses that owe you money for labor and materials provided by you on construction projects. Attorney Richard Mucci understands that often a mechanic's lien may be the only chance a contractor has to receive payment for the work and materials
- [Home Improvement Contractor Disputes](https://muccilegal.com/construction-lawyer/home-improvement-contractor-disputes/) - Legal Help When Contractors Dispute Home Improvement Costs Massachusetts has a specific consumer protection statute and program designed to remedy disputes between owners and home improvement contractors. The Law Offices of Richard Mucci is experienced representing both owners and contractors in Middlesex County and Woburn County in these disputes. Understanding Your Rights Under The Home
- [Contractor - Subcontractor Disputes](https://muccilegal.com/construction-lawyer/contractor-subcontractor-lawyer/) - Contractor And Their Subcontractors Can Easily Find Themselves In A Heated Dispute A contractor lawyer can fasten resolutions when general contractors and subcontractors to become snarled in a dispute during the construction process. Often finding common ground requires an experienced construction law attorney to foster and manage these relationships. Attorney Richard Mucci is a skilled
- [Building Code Violation Disputes](https://muccilegal.com/construction-lawyer/building-code-violation-disputes/) - When A Professional Does Not Check Building Code, We Can Help With The Violation Disputes Property owners who build or remodel a home may discover that the contractor they hired did not construct or repair the home in accordance with the Massachusetts Building Code. This often results in unexpected, expensive and time-consuming repairs and additional
- [Bond Claims](https://muccilegal.com/construction-lawyer/bond-claims/) - Bond Claims May Be The Right Answer To Ensure You Get Paid Most Massachusetts public works projects, including government projects, require awarded contractors to provide bonds to guarantee that the job is completed to specifications. Secure your rights against businesses that owe you money for labor and materials provided by you on public construction projects
- [Construction Law](https://muccilegal.com/construction-lawyer/) - Understands The Nuances Of Construction Law in Massachusetts And Its Disputes When disputes develop on Massachusetts construction projects, companies and individuals need an experienced construction lawyer who understands the construction process, payment rights, building regulations and project goals. Attorney Richard Mucci is an accomplished construction attorney based in Winchester MA who has represented owners, contractors,
- [Payment Disputes](https://muccilegal.com/business-litigation-lawyer/payment-disputes-massachusetts/) - Payment Disputes: We Fight For The Money You Are Owed Nothing is more crippling to a business than providing labor, services or goods to a customer and then not receiving payment from the customer. Unfortunately, in these uncertain economic times, incidences of delinquent payments disputes have increased.You can protect your business from undue financial hardship
- [Fair Share Contribution Violations](https://muccilegal.com/business-litigation-lawyer/fair-share-contribution-violations/) - We Can Help With The Audit Process During Fair Share Assessments An audit notice by the Fair Share Contribution Unit of the Massachusetts Division of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) should not be ignored. Many businesses that have decided to provide medical coverage in response to the Massachusetts health care reform Fair Share law are having their
- [Contract Disputes](https://muccilegal.com/business-litigation-lawyer/contract-disputes-lawyer-massachusetts/) - Smart Resolutions For Your Contract Disputes in Massachusetts Many contract disputes arise over written terms of a contract or a party's failure to perform as required (e.g., nonpayment of monies owed). Attorney Richard Mucci has extensive experience as a litigation lawyer and has successfully handed several contract matters. He provides passionate and committed representation for
- [Consumer Protection & Chapter 93A Rights](https://muccilegal.com/business-litigation-lawyer/consumer-protection-chapter-93a-rights/) - Your Consumer Protections And Rights In Massachusetts Massachusetts offers vast consumer protections against businesses that employ unfair and deceptive acts. If a business, retailer or vendor has treated you unfairly, Winchester MA based attorney Richard Mucci will help you remedy the problem and ensure that you are appropriately compensated. What You Need To Know: Massachusetts
- [Practice Areas](https://muccilegal.com/practice-areas/) - [et_pb_section admin_label=”section”] [et_pb_row admin_label=”row”] [et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1559565381457{padding-right: 10% !important;}”][vc_column][vc_raw_html]%3Cdiv%20class%3D%22category-tiles%20case-tiles%20columns-three%22%3E%0A%0A%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fmuccilegal.com%2Fbusiness-litigation%2F%22%20class%3D%22category-tile%22%20style%3D%22background-image%3Aurl%28https%3A%2F%2Fwww.muccilegal.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F07%2Flitigation-lawyer-winchester-ma.jpg%29%3B%20background-repeat%3A%20repeat%3B%20background-position%3A%20center%20center%3B%20%20background-size%3A%20cover%3B%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-fader%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-content%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-title%22%3EBusiness%20Litigation%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-recipes-count%22%3ECopyright%20Law%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fa%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fmuccilegal.com%2Femployment-law%2F%22%20class%3D%22category-tile%22%20style%3D%22background-image%3Aurl%28https%3A%2F%2Fwww.muccilegal.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F07%2Femployment-lawyer-greater-boston-MA.jpg%29%3B%20background-repeat%3A%20repeat%3B%20background-position%3A%20center%20center%3B%20%20background-size%3A%20cover%3B%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-fader%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-content%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-title%22%3EEmployment%20Law%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-recipes-count%22%3EAccidents%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fa%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fmuccilegal.com%2Fconstruction-lawyer%2F%22%20class%3D%22category-tile%22%20style%3D%22background-image%3Aurl%28https%3A%2F%2Fwww.muccilegal.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F07%2Fconstruction-lawyer-winchester-massachusetts.jpg%29%3B%20background-repeat%3A%20repeat%3B%20background-position%3A%20center%20center%3B%20%20background-size%3A%20cover%3B%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-fader%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-content%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-title%22%3EConstruction%20Law%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-recipes-count%22%3EPatents%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fa%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fmuccilegal.com%2Fcriminal-defense%2F%22%20class%3D%22category-tile%22%20style%3D%22background-image%3Aurl%28https%3A%2F%2Fwww.muccilegal.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F07%2Fcriminal-defense-attorney-winchester-MA.jpg%29%3B%20background-repeat%3A%20repeat%3B%20background-position%3A%20center%20center%3B%20%20background-size%3A%20cover%3B%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-fader%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-content%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-title%22%3ECriminal%20Defense%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-recipes-count%22%3ECorporate%20Issues%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fa%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fmuccilegal.com%2Freal-estate%2F%22%20class%3D%22category-tile%22%20style%3D%22background-image%3Aurl%28https%3A%2F%2Fwww.muccilegal.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F07%2Freal-estate-lawyer-winchester-massachusetts.jpg%29%3B%20background-repeat%3A%20repeat%3B%20background-position%3A%20center%20center%3B%20%20background-size%3A%20cover%3B%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-fader%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-content%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-title%22%3EReal%20Estate%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-recipes-count%22%3EAccidents%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fa%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fwww.muccilegal.com%2Fpersonal-injury-lawyer%2F%22%20class%3D%22category-tile%22%20style%3D%22background-image%3Aurl%28https%3A%2F%2Fwww.muccilegal.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F07%2Fpersonal-injury-lawyer-winchester-massachusetts.jpg%29%3B%20background-repeat%3A%20repeat%3B%20background-position%3A%20center%20center%3B%20%20background-size%3A%20cover%3B%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-fader%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-content%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-title%22%3EPersonal%20Injury%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-recipes-count%22%3ECorporate%20Issues%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fa%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fmuccilegal.com%2Fdivorce-lawyer%2F%22%20class%3D%22category-tile%22%20style%3D%22background-image%3Aurl%28https%3A%2F%2Fwww.muccilegal.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F07%2Fdivorce-lawyer-winchester-ma.jpg%29%3B%20background-repeat%3A%20repeat%3B%20background-position%3A%20center%20center%3B%20%20background-size%3A%20cover%3B%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-fader%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-content%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-title%22%3EFamily%20Law%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-recipes-count%22%3ECopyright%20Law%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fa%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fmuccilegal.com%2Festate-planning%2F%22%20class%3D%22category-tile%22%20style%3D%22background-image%3Aurl%28https%3A%2F%2Fwww.muccilegal.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F07%2Festate-planning-winchester-MA.jpg%29%3B%20background-repeat%3A%20repeat%3B%20background-position%3A%20center%20center%3B%20%20background-size%3A%20cover%3B%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-fader%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-content%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-title%22%3EEstate%20Planning%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-recipes-count%22%3ECopyright%20Law%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fa%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Ca%20href%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fmuccilegal.com%2Fprobate-lawyer%2F%22%20class%3D%22category-tile%22%20style%3D%22background-image%3Aurl%28https%3A%2F%2Fwww.muccilegal.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F07%2Fprobate-lawyer-winchester-ma.jpg%29%3B%20background-repeat%3A%20repeat%3B%20background-position%3A%20center%20center%3B%20%20background-size%3A%20cover%3B%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-fader%22%3E%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-content%22%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-title%22%3EProbate%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cspan%20class%3D%22category-recipes-count%22%3EPatents%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fspan%3E%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fa%3E%0A%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3C%2Fdiv%3E%0A[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces” css=”.vc_custom_1563379724055{background-image: url(https://www.muccilegal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/law-firm-near-me.jpg?id=3543) !important;}” el_id=”rowConsult”][vc_column][os_form_cta form_header=”CONTACT RICHARD MUCCI FOR A FREE CONSULTATION” form_description=”Choosing an attorney can be difficult. That’s why we offer free initial consultations to help you get started. Fill out the form below, or call 781-729-3999 today.”][contact-form-7 id=”1979″ title=”Case Evaluation”][/os_form_cta][/vc_column][/vc_row][/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column] [/et_pb_row] [/et_pb_section]
- [About Massachusetts Attorney Richard Mucci](https://muccilegal.com/massachusetts-attorney-richard-mucci/) - Award Winning Massachusetts Lawyer based in Winchester MA Attorney Richard Mucci is a successful lawyer based in Winchester Massachusetts who is dedicated to providing outstanding client satisfaction. His full-service law practice helps individuals and companies reach their personal and professional goals through cost-efficient negotiation and litigation results. He brings a no-nonsense and focused approach to
- [Disclaimer](https://muccilegal.com/disclaimer/) - The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any
- [Privacy Policy](https://muccilegal.com/privacy-policy/) - This privacy policy applies to information collected online from users of this website. In this policy, you can learn what kind of information we collect, when and how we might use that information, how we protect the information, and the choices you have with respect to your personal information. What personal information is collected through
- [Categories](https://muccilegal.com/categories/)

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://muccilegal.com/category/uncategorized/)
- [Alimony](https://muccilegal.com/category/alimony/)
- [Business Litigation](https://muccilegal.com/category/business-litigation/)
- [Child Custody](https://muccilegal.com/category/child-custody/)
- [Construction Law](https://muccilegal.com/category/construction-law/)
- [Consumer Protection](https://muccilegal.com/category/consumer-protection/)
- [Contracts](https://muccilegal.com/category/contracts/)
- [Criminal Law](https://muccilegal.com/category/criminal-law/)
- [Divorce](https://muccilegal.com/category/divorce/)
- [Employment Law](https://muccilegal.com/category/employment-law/)
- [Estate Planning and Probate](https://muccilegal.com/category/estate-planning-and-probate/)
- [Family Law](https://muccilegal.com/category/family-law/)
- [Real Estate](https://muccilegal.com/category/real-estate/)
- [Tort Law](https://muccilegal.com/category/tort-law/)
- [Personal Injury](https://muccilegal.com/category/personal-injury/)
- [probate](https://muccilegal.com/category/probate/)
- [estate planning](https://muccilegal.com/category/estate-planning-and-probate/estate-planning/)
- [local law](https://muccilegal.com/category/local-law/)
- [general law](https://muccilegal.com/category/general-law/)

## Tags

- [Alimony](https://muccilegal.com/tag/alimony/)
- [Child Custody](https://muccilegal.com/tag/child-custody/)
- [Business Litigation](https://muccilegal.com/tag/business-litigation/)
- [Construction Law](https://muccilegal.com/tag/construction-law/)
- [Consumer Protection](https://muccilegal.com/tag/consumer-protection/)
- [Contracts](https://muccilegal.com/tag/contracts/)
- [Criminal Law](https://muccilegal.com/tag/criminal-law/)
- [Divorce](https://muccilegal.com/tag/divorce/)
- [Employment Law](https://muccilegal.com/tag/employment-law/)
- [Estate Planning and Probate](https://muccilegal.com/tag/estate-planning-and-probate/)
- [Family Law](https://muccilegal.com/tag/family-law/)
- [Real Estate](https://muccilegal.com/tag/real-estate/)
- [Tort Law](https://muccilegal.com/tag/tort-law/)
- [Division of Property](https://muccilegal.com/tag/division-of-property/)
- [Massachusetts Divorce](https://muccilegal.com/tag/massachusetts-divorce/)
- [construction contracts](https://muccilegal.com/tag/construction-contracts/)
- [divorce lawyer](https://muccilegal.com/tag/divorce-lawyer/)
- [marital property](https://muccilegal.com/tag/marital-property/)
- [premises liability](https://muccilegal.com/tag/premises-liability/)
- [premises liability lawyer](https://muccilegal.com/tag/premises-liability-lawyer/)
- [probate lawyer](https://muccilegal.com/tag/probate-lawyer/)
- [estate planning](https://muccilegal.com/tag/estate-planning/)
- [overtime](https://muccilegal.com/tag/overtime/)
- [wages](https://muccilegal.com/tag/wages/)
- [Personal Injury](https://muccilegal.com/tag/personal-injury/)
- [Brain Injury](https://muccilegal.com/tag/brain-injury/)
- [probate](https://muccilegal.com/tag/probate/)
- [real estate lawyer](https://muccilegal.com/tag/real-estate-lawyer/)
- [DUI defense lawyer](https://muccilegal.com/tag/dui-defense-lawyer/)
- [DUI](https://muccilegal.com/tag/dui/)
- [criminal defense](https://muccilegal.com/tag/criminal-defense/)
- [drug crimes](https://muccilegal.com/tag/drug-crimes/)
- [marijuana](https://muccilegal.com/tag/marijuana/)
- [non-compete](https://muccilegal.com/tag/non-compete/)
- [agreement](https://muccilegal.com/tag/agreement/)
- [employment lawyer](https://muccilegal.com/tag/employment-lawyer/)
- [Massachusetts criminal defense attorney](https://muccilegal.com/tag/massachusetts-criminal-defense-attorney/)
- [police interrogations](https://muccilegal.com/tag/police-interrogations/)
- [Massachusetts family law attorney](https://muccilegal.com/tag/massachusetts-family-law-attorney/)
- [relocation](https://muccilegal.com/tag/relocation/)
- [animal traps on property](https://muccilegal.com/tag/animal-traps-on-property/)
- [workers' compensation](https://muccilegal.com/tag/workers-compensation/)
- [vehicle](https://muccilegal.com/tag/vehicle/)
- [accident](https://muccilegal.com/tag/accident/)
- [Massachusetts](https://muccilegal.com/tag/massachusetts/)
- [car](https://muccilegal.com/tag/car/)
- [crash](https://muccilegal.com/tag/crash/)
- [claim](https://muccilegal.com/tag/claim/)
- [insurance](https://muccilegal.com/tag/insurance/)