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Probate and Family Court Litigation

Going through a family law matter can be a challenging and emotional experience, and it is important to have the support of a skilled and understanding attorney.  Doug has spent the last two decades litigating cases in the Probate and Family Court. As a dedicated family law attorney, Doug provides comprehensive legal services for a wide range of family law cases, with a compassionate and sympathetic approach.

Whether you are facing a divorce, seeking custody of your children, addressing child support, a contempt of prior court orders, or dealing with other family law matters, Doug Hyne is here to provide the support and guidance you need. He takes the time to listen to your concerns, understand your situation, and develop a customized legal strategy that meets your unique needs and goals.

With his extensive experience in family law and deep understanding of the complexities of these cases, Doug Hyne is well-equipped to help you navigate the legal process and reach a favorable resolution. Whether in court or through alternative dispute resolution methods, he is a skilled advocate who will fight for your rights and interests, and work to protect your family’s future.

Typically, an attorney will represent a client throughout an entire case.  However, limited assistance representation (LAR) allows you to retain an attorney for specific portions or your case.  For example, you can hire Attorney Hyne to appear with you at a motion hearing, conduct (or defend) a deposition or even represent you at trial.  This is often an attractive option for clients with limited resources, but who need assistance with a particular task.

Attorney Hyne is certified as a Rule 8 mediator and conciliator.  As a family law attorney, Doug can provide mediation services to individuals involved in family law disputes. Mediation is a process in which an impartial third-party mediator helps parties in a dispute reach a mutually acceptable resolution. In the context of family law, this may include disputes related to divorce, property division, child support, parenting plans and other decisions regarding children.

In his role as a mediator, Doug can facilitate communication between the parties, helping them understand each other’s perspectives and needs. He can provide guidance and support throughout the mediation process, and work with the parties to develop a resolution that is in their best interest. Unlike traditional litigation, mediation is a collaborative process that is designed to help parties reach a resolution without the need for a trial. Throughout the mediation process, Doug will work to create a safe and constructive environment in which the parties can reach a resolution.

Attorney Hyne is a certified Category F Guardian ad Litem, or “GAL” for short.  A GAL is appointed by the Court to investigate and issue a report on issues involving children, such as custody, parenting time, allegations of abuse and substance abuse.  These reports often have a significant impact on how a Judge looks at these issues.  If you chose to retain Doug as a GAL, you can expect a comprehensive and fair investigation of the issues in a timely manner.

As a service to the community, Attorney Hyne is committed to handling a number of reduced fee GAL appointments each year.

As a landlord-tenant law attorney, Doug Hyne can provide legal services to both landlords and tenants involved in disputes.

Massachusetts law heavily favors residential tenants – a fact that landlords often realize too late.  Doug can advise landlords and property managers on their rights and responsibilities under the law, including rental agreements, security deposits, evictions, maintenance, and fair housing practices.

Doug also represents tenants in disputes with landlords, advising them on their rights to a safe and habitable living environment and negotiating settlements or representing them in court if necessary. Doug may also offer mediation services as an alternative to traditional litigation, helping landlords and tenants resolve disputes and reach agreements without the need for a trial. Throughout the legal process, he can provide support and guidance, working to protect his clients’ rights and interests.

Attorney Hyne has a wealth of experience handling a wide variety of cases often categorized as “business litigation”.  These include disputes arising from the breach, interpretation, or enforcement of contracts, disagreements among partners in a business partnership regarding the management, finances, or dissolution of a partnership as well as claims of unfair and deceptive business practices.  Doug also handles the purchase and sale of businesses and business assets.

In addition, Doug has extensive experience in representing both homeowners and contractors in disputes over contracts for home improvements. In Massachusetts, these types of disputes often involve the application of specific statutes, such as M.G.L. Ch. 93A, the state’s consumer protection statute, or M.G.L. Ch. 142, which covers regulations pertaining to the construction industry.  Doug is here to help homeowners who have experienced issues with a home improvement project, such as substandard workmanship, delays, cost overruns, or breach of contract.  Conversely, Doug is also experienced in defending contractors facing such allegations