Bill > S873

This bill amends Chapter 208 of the General Laws to modify divorce proceedings in Massachusetts. The key provisions are: 1. If a court finds an "irretrievable breakdown of the marriage," it shall approve the agreement between the parties and enter a Judgment of Divorce Nisi (a provisional divorce decree). 2. A divorce action may be commenced by filing a complaint without the signed statement and dissolution agreement required under the existing law. After at least 30 days, the court can enter a Judgment of Divorce Nisi if it finds an irretrievable breakdown. 3. The 30-day waiting period can be waived to consolidate the complaint with a complaint filed by the opposing party under the existing law. 4. The court can make temporary orders for custody, support, and other matters before entering the final divorce judgment. 5. After a Judgment of Nisi is entered, the action cannot be dismissed or discontinued without the court's approval, unless both parties agree.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S873