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Do I have to do financial statements for Massachusetts divorce?

My wife just served me with divorce papers after we've been living apart for over three years. She has an attorney and I'll probably try to get one too. But I'm wondering if people who don't make that much money have to fill out the financial statement. Right now I'm collecting unemployment so my income is low and other than my car I don't really own anything. Thanks.

Financial Statement in MA

Especially since your wife has an attorney, I applaud your decision to get one as well.  Yes, you and your attorney will complete a financial statement. Rule 401 of the Probate Court, in an effort to force both parties to the divorce to make full disclosure of their financial situation, requires that you complete the statement. I'm sure your divorce attorney will stress the importance of the doing a thorough and complete job, as well.  From your perspective, the financial statements are very important, because the divorce court will rely heavily on it when deciding such crucial issues and child support, property division, and alimony. You did not discuss your situation in great detail or talk about whether you have children but, given your current situation, the court can rely on information contained in the statement to deviate from the child support and alimony guidelines.  If your before tax income is less than $75,000, you will use the Short Form Financial Statement.  If your before tax income is $75,000 or more you will use the Long Form.  See the links below for the forms.  Good luck.

Financial Statement forms

You can find the short form and long form financial statements on line at the Massachusetts Court System Website.

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