Chances are that if you have a parenting plan, it takes into account summer vacations, holidays, and work schedules, but it may not provide direction on how to handle visitation rights during a pandemic. We are in unprecedented times, and with that comes new challenges and a chance for out-of-the-box solutions. Here are some things … Continued
A new law (Senate Bill 192/House Bill B99) also known as an Augmented Estate Law, was signed into law by Governor Hogan, and takes effect October 1st, 2020. This new law will likely have a profound impact on the finances of certain married couples, especially couples who have previous children, by another marriage. While most … Continued
Marriage rates are on the decline (divorce rates have actually declined as well), which is why it is becoming increasingly common for unmarried couples with children to rely on custody laws in Maryland. In fact, one third of children are living with an unmarried parent, according to the Pew Research Center. Some of those parents … Continued
Not all couples who get divorced are at each other’s throat. Many divorces can be carried out with civilized, calm discussions, and compromise. Yet, divorce is a complicated, frustrating process that takes months to finalize in even the best of times. During the divorce process, a once amicable relationship can turn south and disintegrate into … Continued
Adoption is more common than most people think. One out of 25 families with children has at least one child who has been adopted. Also common is single mother motherhood. In fact, 23 percent of children are being raised only by their mother, according to the Census. If you are a single mother or are … Continued
Since 2011, divorce in Maryland has been complicated in the past by a rule that required married couples to be separated for 12 months before marriage for no fault and most fault grounds. That law still exists in circumstances in which two spouses are unable to agree on child custody, property division, alimony, and child … Continued
Over the past several years, the opioid epidemic has raged all across the country. Few places have been hit harder than communities in Maryland. According to the most recent data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Maryland is among the top five states for opioid-related overdose deaths. This substance abuse problem affects people of … Continued
The Maryland Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act defines several types of guardianship for both adults and minors. While guardianship and custody are similar, and even mistakenly used interchangeably when discussing child custody and visitation, there is a big difference between the two. The differences are subtle, yet profound. Custodial Powers There are two … Continued
Court decisions are rarely permanent when it comes to family issues, and custody falls under this category. Whether you are a parent who wants to modify the parenting plan or you are the parent who wishes for it to remain the same, there are some basics that you should understand when it comes to petitioning … Continued
During Maryland divorce, all marital property must go through an equitable division. This means that marital property such as real estate, vehicles, furniture, and essentially all other belongings may be divided to some extent. While each party may not receive 50 percent of the property, everything can potentially be divided, including jewelry that was only … Continued
