Divorce Papers

If the grounds for divorce occurred in Massachusetts, one spouse must be a resident. If the grounds occurred outside the state, the spouse filing must have been a resident for one year. The divorce should be filed for in the county in which the spouses last lived together. If neither spouse currently lives in that county then the divorce may be filed for in a county where either spouse currently resides. [Massachusetts General Laws Annotated; Chapter 208, Sections 4,5,6].

The one and only no-fault ground for divorce in Massachusetts is: Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. [Massachusetts General Laws Annotated; Chapter 208, Sections 1, 1A, 1 B]

USE THESE WORDS IN THE COURT DOCUMENTS FOR MASSACHUSETTS

1. Use these exact words, all in capital letters: COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS, THE TRIAL COURT, THE PROBATE AND FAMILY COURT DEPARTMENT, DIVISION (contact your County Clerks office for the name of the division in your county).
2. Use these exact words, all in capital letters: PETITION FOR DIVORCE
3. If you do NOT have a separation agreement incorporated into your papers, Use the word "Petitioner". Be sure the "P" is capitalized. If you DO have a separation agreement incorporated into your papers, Use the word "CoPetitioner". Be sure the "C" and "P" are capitalized.
4. If you do NOT have a separation agreement incorporated into your papers, Use the word "Respondent". Be sure the "R" is capitalized. If you DO have a separation agreement incorporated into your papers, Use the word "CoPetitioner". Be sure the "C" and "P" are capitalized.
5. Use these exact words, all in capital letters: JUDGEMENT OF DIVORCE
6. Use the word "County" here.

Free Massachusetts Divorce Forms for Download

Following divorce forms are free for download. Most of the forms are provided with instructions on how to fill the form. To download any of these divorce papers and forms just right click on the link and select "Save As...".

• Glossary of terms
• Instructions for completeing the forms
• Review the Resources you may need to obtain your order
• Understanding the Law

Massachusetts Divorce Instructions

• Instructions for completeing the forms - The Marital Settlement Agreement
• Glossary of terms you should be aware of while going through your divorce
• Review your State's Guidelines

Forms & Documents

• Form 1- Uniform Support Petition
• Form 2- Summons: Personal Service on an Individual
• Form 3- Process Service Memorandum
• Form 4- Non-Military Affidavit
• Form 5- Financial Affidavit
• Form 6- Motion for Health Insurance Coverage
• Form 7- Final Judgment Modifying Child Support

Massachusetts Divorce Court Forms

• Documents for the Court

Your Divorce Forms

• Financial Affidavit
• Notice of Hearing

Massachusetts Divorce Forms that Both Parties Must sign

• Declaration under the Child Custody Act
• Marriage settlement Agreement
• Verification required by both parties

Massachusetts Divorce Forms to be Signed by a Friend

• Affidavit by a third party

Divorce Form for Your Spouse

• Answer and Affidavit in response