Matrimonial Law

Our attorneys are sensitive to the individual needs of each of our clients in family disputes as we recognize that they can be emotionally charged and difficult for many families. Our matrimonial law practice includes:

• divorces
• custody actions
• relocations
• property disputes
• child support and alimony

It is our firm policy to try earnestly to resolve family disputes for our clients with as little anguish and expense as possible. Accordingly, every effort is made to reach a negotiated resolution that is satisfactory to our clients. In some cases, court intervention is necessary. At Costello, Brennan, Devidas, Sasso, & Sinclair, P.C., we have extensive trial experience in family matters.

Great care is devoted to meeting the needs of our clients involved in family law cases as we recognize that these types of proceedings can be intimidating. As such, we work with our clients using a team approach and thoroughly explain each step of the litigation process. Every telephone message, for example, is returned each day.

Understanding the Process

A divorce begins with the preparation of a Summons and Complaint by the Attorney for the Plaintiff. Those documents are served upon the Defendant by a state marshal. The documents specify a Return Date, which is significant for two reasons. First, it is the date by which the Defendant or the Defendant’s attorney must file with the Court an Appearance form. An Appearance form indicates the address of the Defendant or Defendant’s attorney so that notice of the proceedings can be provided to the Defendant by way of court notices and court calendars.

The Return Date is also significant because it begins a 90-day waiting period. The 90 days is to be used to explore reconciliation if that is a possibility. If reconciliation is not a possibility, then the 90 days is used to negotiate an agreement. During those 90 days, negotiations take place to attempt to resolve custody and parenting disputes. Also, the 90 days is to be used to gather and analyze financial documents to resolve financial issues. After the 90 days, the status of the case is filed with the Court. For example, the divorcing parties have reached an agreement or that the parties have not reached an agreement and require judicial intervention to resolve some of their disputes. After that, a court date is assigned to dispose of the matter, whether by settlement or trial.

At Costello, Brennan, Devidas, Sasso, & Sinclair, P.C., our lawyers offer free consultations. We would appreciate the opportunity to assist you in the resolution of your family law dispute.