Hon. Denise Meagher (Ret.)
Practical, Common-Sense Solutions for Family Law Disputes
With more than twenty years on the bench, Judge Meagher built a reputation for honest practical judgment. Appointed to the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court in 2005, she served in Worcester, Plymouth, Nantucket, and Barnstable counties, including years as First Justice in both Worcester and Nantucket.
Colleagues and attorneys describe her approach as “straightforward, decisive and fair.” She listens carefully, avoids unnecessary conflict, and focuses on solutions that work. Families facing complex disputes need more than legal theory—they need outcomes that are balanced, workable, and lasting.
Now retired from the bench, Judge Meagher offers conciliation and private adjudication with the same hallmark qualities that defined her judicial career: knowledge of the law, common sense, and a commitment to an equitable resolution. Her goal is to help attorneys and their clients find solutions that resolve disputes efficiently, reduce conflict, and helps them move forward.
"Litigated outcomes do not always translate well into real life. I work to craft resolutions that are legally sound, fair, practical, and built to last."
SERVICES SNAPSHOT
Conciliation / Mediation
A confidential, structured process in which I serve as a neutral to help parties move past conflict, understand the strengths and weaknesses of their positions, and reach agreement.
Areas of focus
- Divorce
- Custody and parenting plans
- Property division
- Child and spousal support
- Post-judgment disputes
- Contested estates
Private Adjudication
In this role, I act as a neutral decision-maker outside of the court system. The process allows parties, with their attorneys, to present evidence and arguments in a structured setting where I issue a binding or advisory decision depending on the parties’ agreement. Private adjudication provides the benefit of a timely, confidential, and cost-effective resolution—while drawing on my decades of judicial experience to ensure fairness and legal soundness.
Attorney Consultations
I also provide confidential consultations for attorneys seeking an experienced, practical perspective on challenging family law cases and settlement strategy.
Conciliation / Adjudication / Mediation services are available only in matters where both parties are represented by counsel. This ensures that all participants have the legal guidance they need and that the process remains efficient and productive.
Why Choose Judge Meagher?
20+ years as a Probate and Family Court Judge
18 years of family law practice before the bench
Substantial experience presiding in Worcester, Plymouth, Nantucket, and Barnstable Counties
Respected for her fairness, efficiency, and common-sense solutions
Credentials at a Glance
Appointed to the Massachusetts Probate and Family Court in 2005 by Governor Mitt Romney
First Justice, Worcester Probate & Family Court (2008–2015)
First Justice, Nantucket Probate & Family Court (2019–2025)
University of Massachusetts, B.A. Legal Studies, cum laude
Suffolk University Law School