Who/What is a Third Party? Under Maryland law, if someone other than a parent seeks custody of a child (ie a grandparent) that person is considered a third party. A third party is someone who is not the child’s biological parent or adoptive parent. A third party may...
People who are going through divorce usually have a lot of property, funds, and assets to divide, including their marital home, bank accounts, and retirement funds. However, there are also hidden assets or assets that divorcing couples may not think about often. If...
Going through a divorce in Maryland with children involved is often stressful. Unfortunately, knowing that your former spouse is dealing with a substance abuse problem only complicates matters. As a parent, you want what's best for your children. With that in mind,...
In Maryland, the court determines the amount you pay for child support. Under this law, both parents' role is to cater to your child's financial needs depending on your income. While most parents are aware that their income determines child support, some are unaware...
If you're planning on leaving your spouse, it's generally a good idea to have a plan in place prior to serving the divorce papers. For example, you may want to speak with a Maryland divorce attorney to learn more about what you might receive in a final settlement....
Each state has different rules for establishing and distributing marital property. In Maryland, courts consider marital, non-marital and commingled properties during the division of property process in a divorce. Establishing marital and non-marital property Maryland...
No one likes the idea of preparing for a divorce, but one of the best things you can do to protect yourself is to prepare your finances. After years of living with someone and having your finances entangled with theirs, it can be hard to separate assets. The best...
Divorce can be an uncertain time. Not only are divorcing people facing the end of their marriage, they may also have questions about their future financial health. Many of these questions are related to the distribution of property. What property will the courts...
Fathers have equal rights to their children! I am often asked by my male clients if they have any chance at primary physical or shared physical custody of their child. The answer is a resounding, “OF COURSE!” Many people assume that courts give mothers more rights to...
The Law of Alimony It is a fundamental principle of Maryland family law that “alimony awards, though authorized by statute, are founded upon notions of equity[.]” Tracey v. Tracey, 328 Md. 380, 393 (1992). A Court can look at a laundry-list of factors when determining...