Business Details
23 Years
experience
Trusted Family Law Attorney in Boston, MA
With over 35 years of dedicated legal practice, I am Cynthia M. Sullivan, a family law and probate litigation attorney serving clients on the North Shore of Boston. Graduating cum laude from Boston College Law School in 1986 and Wellesley College magna cum laude in 1980, I bring extensive expertise in navigating complex family legal matters. My practice emphasizes divorce, child custody, alimony, estate disputes, and collaborative law, informed by my 40-hour mediation certification and training. As a Super Lawyer recognized annually since 2019, I serve as a Guardian ad Litem and discovery master, appointed by courts across Essex, Middlesex, and Worcester Counties.My leadership roles in the Massachusetts Bar Association and memberships in professional organizations like the American Academy of Certified Financial Litigators underscore my commitment to legal excellence. I prioritize client-centered solutions through mediation and collaborative law, advocating for equitable resolutions while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and ethical practice.
Services
Divorce
Child Custody
Alimony
Estate Disputes
Mediation
Collaborative Law
Guardianship
Post-Divorce Modifications
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- Over 35 years of specialized family law experience
- Super Lawyer recognition since 2019
- 40-hour certified mediator with collaborative law training
- Court-appointed Guardian ad Litem and discovery master
- Active leadership roles in Massachusetts Bar Association
Associations and certifications
- Super Lawyers
- American Academy of Certified Financial Litigators
Services
Divorce Representation
Providing comprehensive legal guidance through Massachusetts divorce proceedings, including asset division, spousal support, and post-divorce modifications. Our approach prioritizes client interests while balancing litigation readiness with collaborative solutions. Over three decades of courtroom experience ensures informed representation.
Child Custody Advocacy
Navigating complex custody arrangements involving legal/physical custody, relocation issues, and child support calculations. Services include court-appointed Guardian ad Litem representation and developing enforceable parenting plans that prioritize children's best interests.
Alimony Consultation
Addressing temporary and permanent alimony matters through legal analysis of tax implications, financial disclosures, and court guidelines. We represent clients seeking or contesting spousal support payments in divorce proceedings.
Collaborative Law
Facilitating amicable resolutions through structured negotiations outside court, utilizing specialized training from the Massachusetts Council on Family Mediation. This process maintains privacy while addressing financial, custody, and property division matters.
Probate Litigation
Resolving family disputes regarding will validity, power of attorney challenges, and estate administration conflicts. Court-appointed experience includes discovery master roles and representing executors in contested probate matters.
People
Sullivan Cynthia M
Principal Attorney
Graduated cum laude from Boston College Law School (1986) and Wellesley College (magna cum laude, 1980). Licensed in Massachusetts and New Hampshire with 35+ years of family law experience. Super Lawyer honoree since 2019.
Questions
Do men qualify for alimony in Massachusetts?
Yes, Massachusetts law is gender-neutral. Men can receive alimony if they meet eligibility criteria based on financial need and marital contributions.
How can I modify child support after 10 years?
You must demonstrate significant changes in income or circumstances. Consult an attorney to review your case and initiate formal modification proceedings.
What legal options exist for grandparent custody?
Guardianship establishment provides legal authority for schooling and medical decisions. We guide caregivers through this process.
How does joint custody work?
Joint legal custody involves shared decision-making; joint physical custody splits childcare time. Each parent makes daily decisions during their custody period.
What happens to estate disputes during divorce?
Family conflicts over will validity or power of attorney are resolved through probate litigation, with potential court-appointed mediation.
Is virtual court participation possible?
Yes, Massachusetts courts now conduct hearings via Zoom/phone to maintain accessibility while ensuring safety during the pandemic.
