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Stephen F. McDonough

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Avvo Rating9.4
  • Norfolk, MA
  • Licensed for 17 years
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About Stephen

Future-Focused Dispute Resolution 

I am a Massachusetts divorce and family law attorney and mediator, and the owner of Next Phase Legal & Dispute Resolution LLC of Norfolk, MA.

Although I believe many families are best served by considering mediation or the collaborative divorce process, it is not an option for everyone.  In those instances, we provided trusted court representation in the Massachusetts Probate and Family Courts, primarily in Norfolk, Middlesex, Bristol, Plymouth, and Worcester Counties. 

I am experienced in guiding my clients through complex, high-net worth Massachusetts divorces. I have focused on divorce and family law throughout my legal career, both here in MA and previously in Charlotte, NC.   One of the most important things to me is also providing prompt service and communications to our clients.

At Next Phase Legal, we provide the option of a fixed fee for many of our clients, including our divorce mediation and collaborative cases.

Besides divorce, we work with clients needing help with modifications, parenting issues, child support, alimony, prenuptial agreements, and other family law matters.

I serve on the Bench-Bar Committee for the Norfolk County Bar Association, and am a member of several other professional organizations, including the Massachusetts Council on Family Mediation and the Massachusetts Collaborative Law Council.   I am also a volunteer conciliator, and available for private conciliations also.

Please visit our informative website and blog. 

I look forward to hearing from you. 

 

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Practice areas

Estate planningDivorce and separationMediation
  1. Mediation: 50%

    A large portion of our divorce and family law matters are resolved through mediation. As practice areas have to do with areas of law, and mediation is a process, it is difficult to convey this information with the pie chart.

    14 years

  2. Divorce and separation: 40%

    Divorce and family law is my primary focus area. Modifications, and contempt actions, for issues such as alimony, child support, custody and other matters. I am also an experienced divorce mediator and collaborative lawyer. Fixed fees are available for many cases, including mediation and collaborative cases.

    17 years

  3. Estate planning: 10%

    17 years

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

1333938 1426993050

Contact

Next Phase Legal & Dispute Resolution LLC

65 Holbrook Street
Suite 270
Norfolk, MA, 02056

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    MAActive200509/11/2021
    NCInactive200408/29/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers24
    Legal guides10
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    10 BestAmerican Institute of Family Law Attorneys2016
    Volunteer Recognition CertificateNorfolk Probate and Family Court and Norfolk County Bar Association - Massachusetts2015
    Certified MediatorMassachusetts Council on Family Mediation2015
    Honorable Mention - Best Oral AdvocateSuffolk University Law School, Legal Practice Skills2001
    Distinguished BriefSuffolk University Law School - Legal Practical Skills Class2001
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    Owner, Attorney/MediatorNext Phase Legal LLC2014 - Present
    Owner - Principal Attorney & MediatorThe Divorce Collaborative LLC2009 - 2013
    Managing PartnerWagner McDonough LLP2007 - 2009
    AttorneyRosen Law Firm2005 - 2006
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    Association of Professional Family MediatorsMember2016 - Present
    Town of Norfolk, MassachusettsAdvisory Board2015 - Present
    Bar association of Norfolk County, MACommittee on Bench-Bar Relations2014 - Present
    Association of Family and Conciliation CourtsMember2009 - Present
    Massachusetts Council on Family MediationMember2006 - Present
    Massachusetts Bar AssociationMember2006 - Present
    Norfolk County Bar AssociationMember2006 - Present
    Norfolk, MA Lions ClubMember2006 - Present
    International Association of Collaborative ProfessionalsMember2005 - Present
    American Bar Association, Law Practice Management SectionMember2005 - Present
    MEMO - Medfield Employer's and Merchant's OrganizationDirector2015 - 2016
    Bar Association of Norfolk CountyVolunteer Conciliator - Probate Court2014 - 2017
    Association for Conflict ResolutionMember2010 - 2015
    Massachusetts Collaborative Law CouncilBoard of Directors2009 - 2010
    Western Norfolk County Bar AssociationMember2009 - 2012
    Publications
    Publication nameTitleDate
    The Divorce CenterThe Importance of Parenting Flexibility2017
    Avvo StoriesThe Advantage of Filing First for Divorce2016
    New England Woman MagazineReturning to Work During and After Divorce:2015
    The Norfolk BoomerangCollaborative Law - The New Kid on the Block2008
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    Suffolk University Law SchoolJD - Juris Doctor2004
    Westfield State College (Westfield)BS - Bachelor of Science1998
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    Massachusetts Bar Association 2017 ADR SymposiumOnline Dispute Resolution2017
    Luncheon SeminarDivorce Financial Issues & Mediation2017
    Divorce Basics for AttorneysThe New Alimony Statute in MA2012
    LuncheonLeveraging Technology in the Small Law Office2012
    Massachusetts Collaborative Law Council Members MeetingMaking the Collaborative Process More Affordable2011
    Prudential Page Real Estate Agent's ConferenceWorking With Divorcing Families2011
    Norfolk, MA Lions Club Members MeetingCollaborative Law - A Better Way to Resolve Conflict2011
    Television Show, Sharon, MA Cable AccessDivorce Mediation and Collaborative Divorce2010
    Alternative to Divorce LitigationDivorce & Family Law2010
    Montachusett Estate & Retirement Planning CouncilDivorce & College Financial Planning2010
    Attorney/Bar OrganizationUse of Fixed Fees in Domestic Relations Cases2010
    Membership MeetingFixed Fees in Mediation2010
    The New Massachusetts Child Suport GuidelinesMajor revisions to Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines2009
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    Collaborative DivorceSettlement on all issues

    Reviews

    (26)
    5 Star
    		92%
    4 Star
    		0%
    3 Star
    		0%
    2 Star
    		0%
    1 Star
    		8%
    Review Stephen McDonough

    Absolutely outstanding conciliator

    Posted by

    Attorney McDonough was a consummate professional during our conciliation. He gave us two full days to settle what was a very difficult and complex matter, one that was absolutely going to trial and managed to guide both counsel and their clients to a full settlement. His demeanor and knowledge of the law, our Judge and his ability to be empathetic and balanced to both clients was the turning point of this case. I would highly recommend Attorney McDonough for any matter which requires his level of professionalism in a mediation, conciliation or divorce.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    Stephen McDonough's response: Thank you Attorney Mason for your positive feedback. I hope to work with you again in the future.

    Highly Recommend to All

    Posted by

    I feel so lucky to have found Stephen for divorce mediation services (lucky we did not have to turn to lawyer services). He was unbelievably professional but also kind and sensitive during such a difficult period in anyone's life. I can not recommend him highly enough and would not hesitate to use his services again in the future if ever necessary. Our case was sensitive and difficult. Stephen provided helpful suggestions and insights, above and beyond mediator services, that turned out to be very valuable. Initially he was the only individual who gave his condolences when I was trying to evaluate and choose a mediator. That initial kindness was a great indicator of his character. Very kind, knowledgeable and fair to both parties involved. Thanks so much for all of your help guiding us in such a difficult time.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Helped simplify the Mediation Process

    Posted by

    Steve McDonough and Next Phase Legal were a tremendous help as I went through the process of divorce. In choosing to do Mediation, there needs to be a high degree of trust that your attorney will provide honest and fair advice to both parties. Steve created a very open, trusting environment. My ex-husband and I both went into the meetings with high stress levels, but Steve was able to diffuse the tension and help us work toward a common goal at each session. The mediation process went quickly and we were able to cover all areas within six sessions. The Next Phase team prepared all of our paperwork, making it simple to file with the court. Overall, Steve helped make the painful process of divorce go smoothly and as pain-free as possible.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    Stephen McDonough's response: Thank you for your nice comments. We are glad the mediation process worked out well for you and your family.

    Stephen was my divorce attorney

    Posted by

    I would highly recommend attorney Stephen MdDonogh. I was going through a painful divorce after 23 years and he was able to keep me focused and help me to understand what I needed to do to not only take care of myself, but what I needed to think about going forward. Really can't say enough!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney
    Stephen McDonough's response: Thank you for your positive feedback!

    Good guy

    Posted by

    Steve was great to work with. Divorce is an awful situation and Steve treated me with respect and kept me calm through the process. He moved the divorce as quickly as the court could accomadate and was very fair with his bills. I would highly recommend him

    Professional and Compassionate...

    Posted by

    Stephen F. McDonough proved to be the best decision I ever made when hiring a lawyer for my divorce. McDonough provides practical advice, as well as an ear, to help work through what is an incredibly emotional and painful process. He went above and beyond in his quest to help me achieve my goals. His compassion and knowledge have helped to make the process a little less painful. He is well educated on all current laws. I highly recommend him to anyone going through the divorce process.

    Great attorney for family law, divorce, and child custody issues.

    Posted by

    Stephen McDonough has been my family law attorney for many issues relative to my past divorce. He is wonderful to work with, talk to, and he continuously puts my mind at ease when we have had to go to court. He's worth entrusting your legal needs with. I would gladly recommend him to others and use him again when necessary.

    Norfolk, Medfield, Westwood Divorce and Family Law Attorney's

    Posted by

    If you need a Norfolk/Medfield/Westwood divorce/ family law lawyer, I highly recommend attorney and mediator Stephen McDonough at Next Phase Legal LLC in Medfield, MA. I have used Stephen McDonough as my attorney on multiple occasions, starting with my divorce and later for post-divorce parenting and child support issues. Stephen is well-prepared and gets favorable results. He is always prepared and does a great job on the customer service side by keeping me advised about my case and returning calls and emails promptly. If I need a Norfolk/Medfield/Westwood divorce/family law attorney in the future, my first call will be to Stephen at Next Phase Legal.

    Highly Recommend The Divorce Collaborative LLC - Shrewsbury Dad

    Posted by

    A divorce is never pretty or fun but the good folks at the Divorce Collaborative helped make the process less confusing and as painless as possible. I worked with Steve as my attorney while involved in divorce mediation in Worcester County. Steve was extremely helpful by answering all of my questions and coaching me between the mediation sessions. His knowledge of the financial issues and ideas on bargaining helped me negotiate a fair settlement - for me and my children. Since Steve is also an experienced mediator, he did not try and upset the mediation process, but was supportive and understanding. Steve, along with others at the firm, were always quick to respond to my emails or telephone calls and were very accommodating around my busy schedule. I highly recommend him and The Divorce Collaborative LLC.
    Stephen McDonough's response: The Divorce Collaborative was my former firm. I have since founded Next Phase Legal LLC in Medfield, MA. Please call (508) 359-4043 for more information.

    Divorce/Mediation

    Posted by

    I had a very good experience with Stephen McDonough. He was personable and put me at ease right away. He seemed very experienced and knowledgable and was able to answer most, if not all of my questions. He was very patient with my husband and me, as we hit quite a few bumps along the way. Cost wise, the mediation process was much less expensive than a contested divorce. I think my husband and I were both satisfied with the process and the final agreement. I would highly recommend Stephen and his staff and the mediation process as well.
    See all reviews

    Attorney endorsements

    (14)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    David Hoffman, Divorce and separation Attorney on Mar 30, 2011
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Steve is an excellent lawyer - I was involved in a case with him a few years ago and was impressed by his legal expertise and his collaborative, problem-solving approach. I would welcome the chance to do more cases with him.

    Jeffery Alford, Divorce and separation Attorney on Apr 3, 2014
    Relationship: Friend

    Steve and I have known each other for a few years after first meeting at a conference. It became obvious from our first meeting that Steve is committed to remaining on the cutting edge of his practice both technologically and from a client services perspective. Steve has a passion for service to his clients. A family law case is one of the most stressful and difficult things a person can go through and Steve is committed to making it as easy on his clients as possible. I wholeheartedly endorse him not only for his legal skill but also his compassion.

    Jac Knust, Divorce and separation Attorney on Nov 19, 2012
    Relationship: Other

    I endorse this lawyer. Steve is knowledgable and easy to work with.

    Carolan Hardy, Divorce and separation Attorney on Feb 19, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Stephen is a dedicated and caring attorney who is also involved in assisting families in medication and collaborative.

    Leila Wons, Family Attorney on Dec 13, 2011
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Steve is dedicated to helping his clients resolve their family law matters as quickly and smoothly as possible. He is always up-to-date on the latest news and technology, which he generously forwards to his clients and the legal community. I endorse this attorney.

    Scott Allen, Family Attorney on Nov 20, 2011
    Relationship: Other

    I endorse this lawyer. I worked with Stephen for several years in the same firm. I know him to be compassionate, diligent, and ethical. I would not hesitate to recommend Stephen to a friend for the handling of any kind of family law case.

    Steven Ballard, Mediation Attorney on Aug 7, 2011
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I highly endorse this lawyer. I have been very impressed with his legal blog, and know he has an excellent reputation as a lawyer, mediator, and collaborative lawyer.

    David Hoffman, Divorce and separation Attorney on Mar 30, 2011
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Steve is an excellent lawyer - I was involved in a case with him a few years ago and was impressed by his legal expertise and his collaborative, problem-solving approach. I would welcome the chance to do more cases with him.

    Justin Kelsey, Family Attorney on Jan 18, 2011
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I've met with Stephen McDonough to discuss how he and I both practice family law, divorce and mediation cases. Stephen has a great grasp on the emotional complications of divorce cases and the right way to minimize the trauma of clients going through a divorce. From my interaction with Stephen I believe he understands the challenges of divorce law and the necessity of balancing good representation and service with the value to families of settlement and moving on with their lives. Although our practice areas overlap, I intend to recommend Stephen to potential clients in his area when I have the opportunity to do so.

    Donna Valanzola, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jan 16, 2011
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I would highly endorse Attorney Stephen McDonough. He is a very intelligent, caring and committed professional. Stephen is down to earth and he has a great sense of humor which makes him a pleasure to be around. Stephen is also a remarkable businessman. I am so impressed with his business and technical skills and also his incredible generosity in sharing his expertise with his colleagues. Although I have not yet had the pleasure of working directly with him on a case, I would wholeheartedly recommend him, and I very much look forward to working with him.

    Christopher McHallam, Family Attorney on Mar 10, 2010
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I have worked with Steve and have referred matters to him with the utmost confidence. Steve is dedicated, pragmatic, and focused on obtaining great results for his clients in a manner that is both effective and rational. Steve is an excellent resource both as an attorney and mediator.

    Glenn Murphy, Divorce and separation Attorney on Mar 4, 2010
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer's work. I carefully consider the impact of referrals to other attorneys on my own law practice. I can honestly say that a referral to Steve is given in full confidence. He cares deeply about his clients and his practice. It shows in his ability to combine his skills and knowledge as an attorney/mediator with a sense of humor, enthusiasm and genuine good nature. Steve also serves his clients well by assimiliating the latest technologies into his practice. Glenn J. Murphy, Esquire

    Timothy Borchers, Divorce and separation Attorney on Mar 4, 2010
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I want only the best results and best relationships for my clients in their family law and divorce cases. I am therefore very pleased to recommend fellow lawyer Steve McDonough. Steve is not only well versed in domestic relations law, but he also cares deeply about his clients. I know this because I share an office building with him. Steve is highly organized, discreet, smart, quick, funny, and good company. After 25 years in the practice of law, I know that clients will need to rely on all of these attributes through their divorce. Steve has the street smarts that are useful in understanding human nature, the investigative nose that comes from years in law enforcement, and the guts to work hard for the client. He also loves families and wants the best for all concerned. From what I can see, Steve has always been a top performer. His leadership shows especially in his promoting of the collaborative approach to divorce, which really impresses me. I recommend Steve highly.

    Joshua Blumen, Family Attorney on Mar 16, 2009
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I enjoy working with Steve on matters and find him to be very thorough, creative, efficient and personable. He brings a unique perspective to his clients and continues to be a valuable resource to me and my clients who need his firm's services.

    Leanna Hamill, Family Attorney on Feb 26, 2009
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Stephen was a classmate of mine in law school. He is bright and compassionate. I have referred clients to him with complete confidence.

    Cost

    RATES
    • Hourly Rates$325-$385/hour
      PAYMENT METHODS

      Cash, Check, Credit Card