What are the grounds and residency requirements to file for an uncontested or "no-fault" divorce in Massachusetts?
- One or both parties meet the residency requirement to file for divorce in Massachusetts. If the grounds for divorce occurred in Massachusetts, one spouse must be a resident of Massachusetts. If the grounds for divorce occurred outside Massachusetts, the one spouse must be a resident of Massachusetts for at least one (1) year at the time of filing.
- The filing party (or both parties, if filing jointly) confirm the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage and there is no chance of reconciliation.
- A Marital Agreement (MSA) is highly recommended if minor children are involved, and required by law for Joint No-fault Divorce (Divorce type 1A).
- You must file an official copy (certified) of your marriage certificate with a raised seal when you file your divorce. You may wish to contact the Vital Records Department in the state where you were married for more information.