Probate and Family
Attorney Dodge is admitted to practice and represent clients in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Representation in Probate & Family or Family Court is primarily related to immigration matters and include actions such as:
Divorce
Affirmation of Marriage
Paternity (Massachusetts) / Parenting Petition (New Hampshire)
Guardianship of a Minor
39M Dependency (Massachusetts)
Private Abuse & Neglect Petition (New Hampshire)
Special considerations: Divorce & Marriage Recognition
In some circumstances, a divorce decree or marriage certificate, especially from certain countries, may not be deemed valid for purposes of U.S. Immigration and may require recognition from a U.S. court in order to proceed with the immigration matter.
special considerations: special immigrant juvenile status - Massachusetts
In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, an unmarried individual may be considered a minor until they are 21 years old. Depending on the age and circumstances of the minor, there are different types of cases that may be brought to both help the minor, as well obtain the state orders necessary to apply for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJ).
Dodge Law regularly assists clients in Suffolk County and Middlesex County (North and South). However, we represent clients in Essex County and Worcester County as well. We are able to represent clients throughout the Commonwealth.
special considerations: special immigrant juvenile status - New hampshire
In the State of New Hampshire, an unmarried individual is considered a minor only until they are 18 years old, in most cases, which requires the state court case to be complete before the minor turns 18 years old. As a result, time is of the essence for a minor living in New Hampshire. There may be options to assists the minor beyond their 18th birthday, but only in limited circumstances and there are multiple requirements, including the case be filed before the minor’s 18th birthday.
Dodge Law regularly practices before the 9th Circuit - Family Division - Manchester (Hillsborough County - North), but is able to represent clients in all of Hillsborough County, Rockingham County, Merrimack County and Strafford County.