Law Offices of Michael Alfano

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You deserve a caring lawyer who will listen to you and protect your rights.
Attorney Michael Alfano has extensive experience in Divorce, Support, Custody, Mediations, Wills and Property Division Laws. He is admitted in NH, ME, and MA so he can represent you in all local matters.
His experience and willingness to listen to your individual case make him very effective at understanding you and protecting your rights.

Do You Need A Lawyer?You may represent yourself in a divorce or you may retain an attorney to represent you. If you wish to represent yourself, the following factors should be present:

When parties disagree about the issues or terms of divorce, representing yourself is not advisable. An attorney will make you aware of your legal rights and responsibilities and help you to understand the consequences of your decisions.

How Should You Choose A Lawyer?
Choosing a lawyer is a personal matter. You can seek recommendations from friends, relatives, or business associates. You can study lawyer advertisements. The NH Bar Association has a pamphlet titled "Selecting, Hiring and Working With a Lawyer" that provides additional information about how to make this important decision. You can also call the Lawyer Referral Services of the New Hampshire Bar Association (224-6934 or 1-800-639-5290). The Lawyer Referral Services will refer you to an attorney in your community who handles divorce cases. Full fee, reduced fee, and free legal services are available; cost depends on your financial circumstances and the specifics of your case. No matter how you locate an attorney, it is a good idea to consult with more than one before making your final choice.

What Is A Legal Separation?
A legal separation allows two persons who are still legally married to separate and live apart; a court order provides structure for the separation. The marriage itself is not dissolved and the parties are not free to remarry. A legal separation decree, just like a divorce decree, can provide for support and custody of minor children, visitation, alimony, and division of property and debts. Either spouse can ask for a legal separation on any of the same grounds as for divorce. A legal separation is generally obtained like a divorce but is not required before obtaining a divorce.

What Is An Annulment? An annulment establishes that marital status never existed. It is rarely used and can be granted only when the marriage was illegal from the beginning as, for example, when the marriage was prohibited by law or when either party was already married to someone else. Religious annulments are separate and distinct from legal annulments and have their own requirements and conditions.