The Law Office of Michael L. Rich is a specialized family law practice dedicated to defending families in complex and high-stakes legal matters, particularly those involving accusations of child abuse or neglect. With a career spanning over four decades, Michael L. Rich brings deep personal commitment and legal expertise to each case, distinguishing his practice through a compassionate, client-centered approach.
As a family man himself, Michael L. Rich intimately understands the emotional challenges his clients face and advocates strongly on their behalf with respect and dignity. The firm focuses on areas many family law practices avoid, requiring specialized knowledge of agencies like the Department of Children and Families and handling difficult proceedings in juvenile, probate, and family courts. He offers flexible consultation options, sliding scale fees, and personally handles each case to ensure high-quality, dedicated representation.
Services Offered
- Family law
- Child abuse and neglect accusations
- Care and Protection cases in Juvenile and Probate and Family Courts
- Termination of Parental Rights
- Department of Children and Families (DCF) Investigations (51As)
- DCF Grievances, Family Assessments, and Fair Hearings
- Judicial Review in Superior Court of Fair Hearing decisions
- Adoption defense
- Stepparent adoptions
- Guardianships of minors
- Special education law (766, IDEA and 504)
- School discipline: Child Requiring Assistance (CRA) cases
- Manifestation hearings
- Positive behavioral plans
- Suspensions, exclusions, and expulsions
- Home schooling legal matters
- Student rights violations
- Consultations, advice, and training for non-profit staff on risk assessment and reduction
- Safe practices planning and implementation
- Mandatory Reporting of injured or neglected children (51As)
- Liability risk reduction
- Alternative Dispute Resolution and Restorative Justice
Serving clients throughout Massachusetts, the firm offers consultations in-person, via phone, email, and videoconferencing, and is available to assist individuals and families facing urgent legal challenges involving children and family welfare.
