Thoughtful Legal Support for Life’s Most Personal Matters
Why Clients Choose Us
Clarity at Every Step
We answer your questions before you need to ask. Our structured approach reduces stress and confusion by outlining what to expect, what’s needed from you, and how we’ll move forward—so you always feel informed and in control.
Thoughtfully Prepared, Deeply Experienced
Every case is unique, but some things are universal. That’s why we provide Client Guides and purposeful updates to simplify the process and prevent overwhelm. With experience in cases involving complex finances, mental health, education, and more, we’re ready for whatever your case brings.
Strong, Strategic Advocacy
We don’t waste time with drama—we stay calm, clear, and effective. Our reputation for reasoned, persuasive arguments earns respect in court and helps avoid unnecessary conflict. But if a fight is necessary, we’ll be ready—and we’ll fight smart.
Family Law
Compassionate family law for life’s most challenging moments.
Whether you're navigating divorce, child custody, or complex financial issues, we’re here to support you with clarity, compassion, and strategic legal guidance.
From your first contact with our office, we develop a clear plan aligned with your goals and priorities. We empower you to make informed decisions—protecting your time with your children, your financial interests, and your peace of mind. Whenever possible, we aim to preserve amicable relationships while still advocating fiercely for what’s fair.
Our approach centers on transparency, calm communication, and forward progress. We provide client guidebooks, clear steps, and ongoing support to reduce stress and uncertainty at every stage.
At Next Chapter, we understand that these decisions shape your family’s future. We're here to protect what matters most—so you can move forward with strength and confidence.
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Dividing assets and debts during divorce can be complex and emotionally charged. In Massachusetts, the court aims for an “equitable”—not always equal—division based on a wide range of factors unique to each family.
We present compelling evidence tailored to those factors and have successfully handled high-stakes cases, including uncovering hidden assets and financial misconduct.
Divorce is financial litigation. With the right legal guidance, you can ensure a fair outcome that protects your future—not just on paper, but in real life.
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Massachusetts alimony law has evolved rapidly since the 2013 statute, with ongoing changes and emerging case law.
Attorney Andrea Lance stays at the forefront of these developments through active membership in leading legal and financial organizations. She regularly studies new decisions and attends advanced trainings to ensure her advice reflects the most current interpretations of the law—so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
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Over time, families evolve—and so should their legal agreements. Whether due to a change in income, parenting schedules, or children’s needs, we can help you negotiate a modification that reflects your current reality.
If agreement isn’t possible, we’ll build a strong case demonstrating a “substantial change in circumstances” or a revised child support calculation. From strategy to presentation, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
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In family law, reasonableness carries weight. If the other party is willfully violating a court order—by denying parenting time or failing to pay support—a Complaint for Contempt may be necessary and could result in reimbursement of your legal fees.
If you've been accused of violating a court order, we’ll defend you with a strong strategy, including dismissal of unfounded claims when appropriate. Whether you’re seeking enforcement or responding to allegations, we’ll help you take the most effective and informed next step.
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Prenuptial agreements aren’t just for the ultra-wealthy or those expecting an inheritance. They’re a thoughtful way to protect both partners by clearly outlining intentions for assets acquired during the marriage. Whether you’re advancing in your career, growing a business, planning to step away from the workforce to raise children, or entering a marriage where one partner has significant debt, a prenuptial agreement can provide clarity, security, and peace of mind for your future together.
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The court bases custody decisions on what’s best for the child—both in initial orders and modifications. We’ll walk you through the key factors the court considers and help build a case that supports your goals.
We offer real-time coaching on co-parenting communication to keep interactions respectful, focused, and court-ready if needed. When custody matters involve additional professionals—such as Guardians Ad Litem, child therapists, or parenting coordinators—we’ll guide you through how they can support your family. As a court-appointed Guardian Ad Litem and Attorney Representing Children, Attorney Andrea Lance brings valuable insight to every custody case.
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Child support in Massachusetts is based on a formula that considers both parents’ incomes, but the guidelines are just the starting point. Courts can deviate from the formula when circumstances call for it.
The full picture includes more than a monthly payment—it involves understanding what income counts, how expenses are shared, and who can claim tax benefits. When one parent is self-employed, we work to clarify income and reach agreement on what’s fair and appropriate.
With the right legal guidance, you can minimize conflict and ensure your child receives the support they deserve in both homes.
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Mediation offers a confidential, voluntary path to resolving family law matters—without the courtroom. As a certified mediator and experienced family law attorney, Attorney Andrea Lance and her team ensure your negotiations are legally sound, privileged (inadmissible in court), and rooted in a deep understanding of custody, support, alimony, and property division.
Unlike court, mediation fosters open communication in a neutral setting. It avoids the back-and-forth of contested litigation and helps preserve relationships and privacy.
We hold space for both parties to be heard and guide you toward realistic, customized agreements that a judge might not otherwise be able to order. If you’re considering mediation, we can help you prepare for the conversation and support all participants in feeling confident and comfortable throughout the process.
Let’s find a resolution that works for your family.
Estate Planning
Protect what matters. Make your wishes clear.
Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who wants to protect their assets, reduce taxes, and ensure their wishes are honored. Without a plan, the Commonwealth decides what happens to your estate. With one, you stay in control.
When you reach out, we’ll walk you through your options and help craft a plan that works for you and your family. You don’t need to have all the answers—we’ll help you think through what matters most and revisit your plan as life evolves.
We’re here to ensure your documents are strong, clear, and built to minimize future conflict—so your loved ones are supported when it matters most.
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A Will ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes after death—and allows you to name guardians for your minor children. Without one, the court decides both who receives your property and who cares for your children, which can lead to confusion or conflict.
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A Trust is a powerful estate planning tool that lets you manage your assets during your lifetime and control how they’re distributed after. Unlike a Will, a Trust avoids probate, offering privacy, speed, and potentially significant cost savings for your beneficiaries.
Trusts can help reduce taxes, protect assets from creditors, and maintain eligibility for government benefits. You can set specific terms for how and when assets are distributed—even beyond your lifetime.
Revocable Trusts let you retain full control and flexibility. Whether you're planning for the future or protecting your family's inheritance, a Trust allows you to preserve your wishes with clarity and care.
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This document allows someone you trust to manage your finances if you're unable to do so. It can cover paying bills, handling investments, managing property, and more. We draft it with clear, specific language so financial institutions can confidently follow your chosen representative’s instructions.
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A Healthcare Proxy lets you name someone to make medical decisions if you’re unable to. It can also include a Living Will, which outlines your wishes for care, resuscitation, organ donation, and end-of-life arrangements—ensuring your voice is heard when it matters most.
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A HIPAA Release authorizes your medical providers to share health information with the trusted individuals you choose—ensuring they can access the details needed to support your care.
Criminal Defense
Strategic, assertive criminal defense from day one.
If you’re facing criminal charges, early, aggressive action is essential. At Next Chapter, we act quickly to preserve critical evidence and challenge the prosecution’s case. With deep experience as a former Miami-Dade felony prosecutor and a strong trial and appellate record, Attorney Andrea Lance brings skilled, strategic defense to every client—fighting for the best possible outcome at every stage.
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Law enforcement often arrests without full evidence, sometimes targeting the wrong party. We’ve successfully persuaded prosecutors to drop felony charges against our clients and helped those falsely accused to take legal action against their accusers. Attorney Andrea Lance’s family law background ensures skilled, comprehensive representation across multiple courts.
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These charges require proof that the defendant knowingly violated specific court orders. We have defended clients in appeals where the prosecution lacked evidence of these key elements, preventing unfair trials.
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OUI cases often rely on subjective officer impressions rather than clear traffic violations. With extensive experience prosecuting and defending OUI, leaving the scene, and traffic homicide cases, we provide knowledgeable, aggressive defense in these matters.
Restraining Orders
Protecting your safety and your rights.
Massachusetts’ 209A restraining orders protect individuals from abuse by family members or partners and can be issued by probate or district courts. Emergency “ex parte” orders may be granted without notice, followed by a full hearing where both sides present evidence.
When children are involved, probate courts can modify restraining orders related to custody and parenting time.
Attorney Andrea Lance represents clients in both courts, handling family law, restraining orders, and criminal defense. She has successfully won multiple appeals on 209A and harassment prevention orders, ensuring strong advocacy throughout the process.
Appeals
A second chance at justice.
Appeals challenge legal errors made by a trial court, whether during motions, evidentiary rulings, or at trial. Attorney Andrea Lance’s extensive trial background and appellate experience—including service on the Appellate Panel for the Committee for Public Counsel Services—position her to identify and argue strong appellate issues.
She represents both her own trial clients and those seeking a second opinion after working with another attorney. If you believe your case involves appealable issues, we’re here to help.
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Commonwealth v. Tiernan, 96 Mass.App.Ct. 588 (2019), evidence was insufficient to prove that defendant had knowledge of extended abuse prevention order so as to support conviction.
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Back to the Future of Your Privacy Rights: U.S. v. Jones, Massachusetts Law Review, Volume 95, No. 2 (2013)
Probate of Estates
Handling the legal steps so you can focus on healing.
Losing a loved one is hard enough without the added burden of navigating probate. While the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code has simplified some steps, the process can still be time-consuming and complex. We’re here to handle the details and guide your family with clarity and compassion. Contact us to learn how we can help.