Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Joint Custody Agreements in Maryland
Child custody is one of the most important considerations in life for parents who divorced or never married. In these situations, it is generally advisable to keep both parents involved. That way, the child or children involved can develop solid relationships with both parents. To help facilitate the physical and legal considerations of sharing… Read More »
Award of Family Property After a Maryland Divorce
When a couple decides to end their marriage and pursue a divorce, both parties must consider the issue of property division. If the parties to a divorce cannot agree amongst themselves, then a Maryland state court will award possession and use of family property, including the family home and family use personal property. Family… Read More »
Standard Guidelines for Child Support Obligations in Maryland
Parents in Maryland have a duty to care for and protect their children, including payment of child support obligations where applicable. But in cases of divorced or separated parents, it can be difficult to estimate how much each parent should pay to support their common children. To help alleviate this problem, Maryland created standardized… Read More »
Maryland’s Mandatory Sentencing Guidelines for Violent Crimes
Violent crime is an incredibly traumatic experience for victims and their loved ones. It can take years for physical and emotional scars to heal. And in the most extreme cases, the victim dies or suffers permanent damage. From medical bills to lost wages and even funeral expenses, the costs of violent crime can be… Read More »
The Maryland Adult Protective Services Program
Generally speaking, child support and care responsibilities under Maryland family law end once a person reaches 18 years old. At that point, most minor children become self-sufficient adults, capable of taking care of themselves. In certain cases, however, adults are not able to reach self-sufficiency. Referred to legally as vulnerable adults under Maryland law,… Read More »
What are the Requirements for a Marriage License in Maryland?
Marriage is one of the most important aspects of family law in Maryland. For many couples, marriage is the first step toward building a family together. Subsequent steps might include having children or accumulating marital property, such as a family home. Ultimately, marriage is the foundational building block for many families. Unlike certain places… Read More »
How Does Maryland Differentiate Between Rape in the Second and First Degrees?
While all sexual offenses are violent crimes, rape is the most serious offense in this category. In general terms, rape occurs when a perpetrator uses force, or the threat of force, and engages in sexual conduct without the victim’s consent. In specific terms, there are two different categories of rape crimes in Maryland: Second… Read More »
What are the Different Kinds of Divorce in Maryland?
Although traditional marriage vows make a couple’s union seem permanent, divorce is a common reality across Maryland and the United States. Recognizing this reality, Maryland law provides for two different types of divorce for married couples: Limited Divorce and Absolute Divorce. Limited Divorce Under Maryland Law Maryland Code of Family Law Section 7-102 details… Read More »
Maryland Laws Against Robbery, Armed Robbery, and Carjacking
Under Maryland state law, robbery is a crime of violence that involves the use of force or the threat of force. When a perpetrator uses these tactics to steal property or obtain services unlawfully, it qualifies as robbery. There are generally three different categories of robbery crimes in Maryland. Robbery Maryland Code of Criminal… Read More »
Important Considerations for Marital Separation Agreements in Maryland
Under Maryland family law, it is possible for a married couple to divorce without a lengthy process drawing out in the courts. To do so, the spouses must reach a mutual agreement concerning the terms of their marital separation. Then they must execute a written document that outlines the terms of their separation and… Read More »
