Divorce

While the divorce is pending, you might be able to ask the judge for the following temporary orders, depending on your specific situation:

• alimony, including private health insurance if you don’t have any;
• money to cover the cost of the divorce proceedings, whether you filed yourself or if the divorce was filed against you;¹
• an order telling your spouse not to restrict your personal liberty;
• any orders necessary to protect you and your children and to keep (preserve) the peace;² 
• a custody order, in consideration of the best interest of the child;³
• a child support order that includes health insurance if needed;⁴ and
• an order that your spouse leave the house for a 90-day period for your or your child’s health, safety, or welfare, which can be extended later if needed.⁵

¹ M.G.L. 208 § 17
² M.G.L. 208 § 18
³ M.G.L. 208 §§ 19; 28A
⁴ M.G.L. 208 §§ 20; 28A
⁵ M.G.L. 208 § 34B