Maryland Family Law Lawyers

If you are considering filing for a divorce, chances are, you are facing many difficulties and emotional challenges when it comes to decision-making. Having a professional and experienced family lawyer can help you make sense of divorce proceedings, and help you protect your rights and best interests.

When it comes to divorce proceedings, every situation is a unique, which means that you need a lawyer who can devote time to your case, learn the details of your situation, and then tailor representation in that will help you accomplish your goals.

Getting a Divorce

In order to obtain an Absolute Divorce in Maryland (a final divorce), a party must first file a Complaint for Absolute Divorce in the Circuit Court that would have venue over your particular case. A family lawyer can draw up these documents easily for the Petitioner/Plaintiff (the person who is filing for divorce.) It’s important to note that there is no need to worry if your spouse claims that he or she is unable to support his or her self, and therefore wants you to pay. Lawyers usually use the Complaint as a sort of wish list.

The Respondent, or the one who didn’t file for divorce, has 30 days after being served with the Complaint to file an Answer. This Answer will usually be brief and to the point, either admitting or denying the assertions and asking the court to deny the petitioner’s request. Along with an Answer, the Respondent will often file a Counterclaim which will include his or her point of view and any kind of relief they seek. It is usually advised to file a Counterclaim so that the issues you wish to raise are properly before the Court.

Divorce Law

The following are some of the areas in which having a family lawyer by your side can help.

Child Custody & Visitation

A custody lawyer can help you put in place custody and visitation agreements that are in the best interests of your children, but also protect your rights as a parent.

Child Support

A qualified lawyer will be able to review all proposed obligations regarding child support to check for compliance according to state guidelines. An attorney can also verify if all relevant income has also been included as part of the calculation.

Alimony

A qualified lawyer will help you determine whether or not alimony should be paid, and if so, what amount would be appropriate and fair.

Division of Property

The equitable division of debts and assets is also an important part in q divorce. Having an experienced lawyer by your side will help you determine which assets are included when it comes to the division of property.

Legal Separation Agreements

In case you are not ready for a divorce, but you do recognize the need a legal separation, a lawyer can put together a separation agreement.

If you or someone you care about is considering a divorce or has issues regarding child custody, visitation, child support or alimony please call us for a free consultation at (410) 783-9230, or toll-free outside of Baltimore at 1-(888) 966-5566.

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