Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Maryland Residence Requirements For Filing A Divorce
If you’re considering divorcing your spouse, you may wonder what the State of Maryland requires from those filing divorce petitions. Although Maryland is a no-fault divorce state, which means that you do not need to prove anyone was at fault for the breakdown of the marriage, there are still a number of legal criteria… Read More »
New Maryland Law Targets Reckless Drivers
The State of Maryland recently made major changes to its traffic laws under the Sergeant Patrick Kepp Act (SB 590). The new law, which is effective October 1, 2025, increases the penalties and expands the definitions of reckless, negligent, or aggressive driving. In this article, the Bel Air, MD, criminal defense lawyers at Schlaich… Read More »
Do I Need My Former Spouse’s Consent To Relocate With The Children In Maryland?
If you are the parent who has primary custody of the children, you may, at some point in your life, want to relocate to another state. The move could be in connection with a new job, to be closer to your family, or anything else. It’s imperative that you understand that you cannot simply… Read More »
Why Should I Get A Postnuptial Agreement?
Postnuptial agreements are like prenuptial agreements (or prenups) that are negotiated after you are married. There are several important reasons why you’ll want to consider one. In this article, the Bel Air, MD, family law attorneys at Schlaich & Thompson, Chartered will discuss several good reasons to consider a postnuptial agreement. Clarifying financial expectations … Read More »
What Is An Order Of Default In A Maryland Divorce Situation?
You’ve completed your divorce petition and have served it to your spouse. There’s only one problem. Your spouse refuses to sign the paperwork, and now, you can’t even find them. They disappeared. Does this mean you can’t get a divorce? Do you need your spouse to participate in the divorce to end your marriage?… Read More »
Can I Use Spy Tech During My Maryland Divorce?
Technology represents a major problem for lawyers who have to practice law in the age of social media. Tracking technology is also an issue. It might be tempting for you to spy on your partner using tracking technology to get information about their whereabouts and communications. Tracking devices are very easy to get hold… Read More »
Analyzing Maryland’s New Organized Retail Theft Law
Retail theft across the country has been a major concern of law enforcement and legislators. The uptick in retail theft has resulted in several stores closing in high-crime areas. It has also contributed to price increases. This year, lawmakers have decided to fight back by passing a bill that targets organized retail theft. Senate… Read More »
What Role Does Domestic Violence Play In Child Custody Decisions In Maryland?
All states across the country use a “best interests of the children” standard when making custody decisions. The courts take a profound interest in ensuring that the child is safe and well cared for. Maryland courts will, therefore, take allegations of domestic violence quite seriously when deciding on matters related to child custody. Maryland… Read More »
Is The Appreciation Of Separate Property Considered A Marital Asset?
This is one of the more complicated concepts in family law. When a married couple gets divorced in Maryland, all of their property is classified as either separate property (it belongs to one of the spouses) or marital property (it will be divided between the spouses). However, the value that certain property accrues during… Read More »
Which Medical Conditions Are Most Likely To Lead To A False DUI Arrest?
Police officers diagnose drunk drivers based on various observations. Bleary or bloodshot eyes, the smell of alcohol, and more can lead an officer to believe that you are driving under the influence of alcohol. At this point, they’ll have you perform various field sobriety tests to get probable cause for an arrest. However, you… Read More »
