FAMILY LAW FIRM IN WESTFORD, MA

At Ryder & Phelps, P.C., we handle all family law matters, including but not limited to the following:

• Divorce. With our holistic approach that addresses all aspects of this life-changing event, you will be better prepared to face the countless decisions and arrangements that will need to be resolved. These range from child custody to child support, spousal support, the equitable division of marital property and debt, and all other relevant issues. 
• High-Asset Divorce. In some cases, the financial challenges facing divorcing parties can get very complicated. We have represented many individuals with high net worth, complex ownership interests, and self-employment situations. Our firm has long-standing relationships with top-rated business valuation and other experts, such as tax professionals, investment bankers, and financial advisors to ensure that your assets are protected and maximized. 
• Alimony and Spousal Support. Alimony and spousal support issues routinely change per the legislative agenda and the tax code. Our team is current on all the latest laws and issues regarding this important topic as support is a major issue for many families facing significant changes to their lifestyle after divorce.
• Child Custody and Paternity. Children can be the most affected by divorce. Because of the many years of experience we have in handling custody matters, we can be creative as well as assertive when it comes to parenting plans and custody issues in any divorce or paternity matter. 
• Child Support. We believe that support of children financially by both parents is essential to the best interests and welfare of children in divorce or where parents have never been married. Our team works to help you reach a fair support payment in alignment with the court’s priority of serving the child’s best interests.
• Modifications Actions and Contempt of Court. Many portions of your divorce or paternity judgment may be modified in the future if material and substantial changes in circumstance arise. Our team has successfully handled a great number of these matters. We are confident that, if you are entitled to modifications under the laws in Massachusetts, we will either defend or pursue your case zealously.
• Mediation. Our three lead attorneys are MCLE Rule 8 certified mediators whose alternate dispute resolution skills are respected by the local courts. Our attorneys are often appointed by judges and other attorneys to use these skills to mediate difficult cases involving divorce, custody, and more. 
• Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements. Having a clear understanding of your rights and obligations before marriage provides the structure and predictability necessary to engage in a happy future relationship. We have drafted and reviewed a great number of agreements, and are available to provide counsel as needed regarding them. 
• Wills. No family law practice would be complete without a team that can draft a thorough estate plan. Our attorneys can work with you to design a solid plan that will protect your loved ones and provide you with the comfort of knowing your affairs are in good order.
• Child Removal Actions. These are among the most difficult cases before probate and family courts. To succeed in either defending or pursuing such a case, your legal team must have real experience with this issue. Attorney Ryder has been appointed as a guardian ad litem by the court many times with the task of making recommendations to the court regarding parental rights. 
• Restraining Orders. While our primary focus is family law, many of our clients find themselves seeking or defending a restraining order during litigation. We have significant experience representing clients in District Courts regarding restraining and harassment prevention orders.  You must speak with an attorney before filing a restraining order to discuss what to include in your application and affidavit.