What Is a 1A vs 1B Divorce in Massachusetts? | By Attorney Lindsay Egan

Need a family attorney in MA who can help you figure out which divorce path fits your situation? Contact Lindsey Egan of Poppy Legal Group: https://www.poppylegalgroup.com In this video, Lindsey Egan breaks down the two types of divorce in Massachusetts — 1A and 1B — what separates them, what documents each requires, and how to know which path applies to your situation. One conversation with your spouse can tell you everything you need to know about which type of divorce you're actually filing. Most people searching "Massachusetts divorce" assume it's one process, but few realize the entire timeline, cost, and court involvement hinges on a single question: can you and your spouse agree? In this video you will learn: ✅ The difference between a 1A (uncontested) and 1B (contested) divorce in Massachusetts ✅ The documents and steps required to file each type ✅ How to know which path is right for your situation Book a consultation: https://calendly.com/poppylegalgroup Not sure if you need a 1A or 1B divorce in Massachusetts? Here's how to tell the difference before you file. Filing for divorce in Massachusetts can feel overwhelming when you don't know which type applies to you. This breakdown clarifies the two primary paths — a 1A uncontested divorce for couples who agree on everything, and a 1B contested divorce for couples with at least one unresolved issue — so you can move forward with clarity instead of confusion. A 1A divorce requires a signed separation agreement covering every issue, financial statements from both spouses, and (if applicable) a child support guidelines worksheet, and it typically resolves in 5 to 6 months. A 1B divorce begins when one spouse files a complaint, and it can involve temporary orders, discovery, and mediation before reaching a settlement — most cases settle before trial, but the process can take 12 to 18 months. Understanding which path fits your situation from the start can save you time, money, and unnecessary conflict. Subscribe for weekly legal process breakdowns, and comment below if you have specific questions about Massachusetts family law proceedings. 0:00 What Is Divorce in Massachusetts and What Are My Options 0:49 What Is a 1A (Uncontested) Divorce in Massachusetts 5:44 What Is a 1B (Contested) Divorce in Massachusetts 8:20 What Issues Does the Court Resolve in a Massachusetts Divorce 11:04 How Do I Know If I Should File a 1A or a 1B Divorce 13:34 How Can You Get Help With Your Massachusetts Divorce Case For more information, visit https://www.poppylegalgroup.com/ If you have any questions or topics you'd like me to cover in the next video, leave a comment below and be sure to like and follow for more family law guidance. This is not legal advice. It is for educational purposes only. The results shared about this case are not a promise, guarantee, or assurance that our office will achieve similar results in your case or in future cases. Every case is different, and no promises will be made regarding the outcome of any case.