Category Archives: Family Law
How Does Maryland Address Family Property Division After Divorce?
When a married couple decides to pursue a divorce in Maryland, there are countless factors to evaluate, including property division. The process of dividing property in a mutually agreeable fashion can be difficult for many parties to a divorce. This is particularly true regarding family property, including the family home and family use personal… Read More »
Does Maryland Family Law Allow Children to Request Custody Changes?
The Maryland state courts will usually issue a child custody order when unmarried or divorced parents live apart. Subject to the best interests of the child, these orders provide specific rules for parenting time, living arrangements, visitation, and many other important considerations. Though in certain situations, a minor child may request a change to… Read More »
What Happens if Someone Violates a Protective Order in Maryland?
Under Maryland family law, a protective order allows the state courts to intervene in cases of abuse or domestic violence. Only certain types of victims qualify for protective orders, as a specific type of relationship with the alleged abuser is required. Generally speaking, Maryland reserves protective orders for situations where the alleged abuse occurred… Read More »
No-Fault vs. At-Fault Divorces Under Maryland Family Law
A question about Maryland family law that arises commonly involves the difference between no-fault and at-fault divorces. On a larger level, a no-fault divorce means that the parties involved reach mutual agreement to terminate their marriage. Whereas, an at-fault divorce means that one party acted in a way that justifies termination of marriage. But… Read More »
What is the Maryland Approach to Alimony?
Alimony is a type of support payment available to a spouse during divorce proceeding and/or after completing their divorce. These support payments are designed to address financial imbalances between formerly married spouses and promote future self-sufficiency. Alimony can be awarded to either spouse, even if that spouse contributed to the grounds for divorce. When… Read More »
What is a Postnuptial Agreement under Maryland Family Law?
Maryland family law allows spouses to create legally valid contracts or agreements with each other. When prospective spouses create such a contract before marriage, it is referred to as a prenuptial agreement. These agreements typically address financial imbalances between the spouses or govern property rights. Even after the spouses get married, they are still… Read More »
Is There a Time Limit on Alimony Support in Maryland?
Alimony is a type of spousal support payment that attempts to balance inequalities between former spouses who complete a divorce. Either spouse can apply for alimony support payments. However, the Maryland courts must evaluate multiple factors before awarding alimony to either party to a divorce proceeding. What are the Factors for Awarding Alimony? Maryland… Read More »
What are Natural Guardianship Rights for Maryland Parents?
Under Maryland family law, natural birth parents have special rights and duties concerning child custody, care, and support. Referred to legally as natural guardians, parents are required to provide adequate care and support to their children. Even if the natural parents never married or completed a divorce, these rights and duties apply nonetheless. Natural… Read More »
3 Types of Adoption Under Maryland Family Law
Adoption under Maryland family law is a legal process that reassigns parental rights and responsibilities from birth parent to adopting parent. Adoption generally involves children. Though in certain cases, adoption cases involve adults, often those with special needs. To initiate the adoption process, a request for adoption must be filed with a Maryland state… Read More »
What is the Maryland Family Law Approach to Alimony?
Under Maryland family law, alimony is a type of spousal support that is available during or after divorce. During the process of ending their marriage, either spouse can request alimony support payments from the other spouse. These support payments are designed to help either spouse get back on their feet and become self-sufficient. The… Read More »
