Author Archives: Jay Butchko
What Are The Maryland Penalties For Different Robbery Crimes?
The definition of robbery appears at Maryland Code of Criminal Law Section 3-401. Under this section, robbery occurs when the perpetrator: Takes another person’s property; Intends to permanently deprive that person of such property; and Uses force or the threat of force to complete the crime. Section 3-401, clarifies that robbery can include obtaining… Read More »
4 Aspects Of Postnuptial Agreements Under Maryland Family Law
A postnuptial agreement is a type of enforceable contract that can exist between spouses under Maryland law. Unlike prenuptial agreements — which are executed before marriage — postnuptial agreements come into play after marriage. Although postnuptial agreements are valid and enforceable in Maryland, these contracts are subject to certain restrictions. Maryland Postnuptial Agreements are… Read More »
Maryland Police Duties & Notice Requirements For Domestic Violence
When responding to an allegation of domestic violence, Maryland imposes various duties on law enforcement officers. At the highest level, law enforcement must try to protect the alleged victim from further abuse or violence. On top of safety, law enforcement must also provide notice of various rights and, in certain cases, a copy of… Read More »
How Does Maryland Determine The Amount & Duration Of Alimony?
Alimony is a version of spousal support in Maryland that is available to certain people who were formerly married. The state courts may award alimony on its own or as part of a decree granting an annulment or absolute or limited divorce. Though if the parties executed a marital separation agreement with respect to… Read More »
Child Custody Training Program In Maryland For Abuse/Violence Cases
In any Maryland child custody proceeding, the state courts are responsible for safeguarding the best interests of the children involved. But in cases that may involve child abuse or domestic violence, there are additional considerations in play. To help judges and magistrates evaluate child custody in these situations, Maryland created a special training program… Read More »
Unlawful Possession Drug Crimes Under Maryland Law
Outside of exceptions for approved medical use, Maryland features a general prohibition on the possession of dangerous or addictive drugs. Referred to legally as controlled substances, any person who possesses drugs unlawfully can face serious penalties under Maryland law, though the penalties do fluctuate based on the type of substance and the number of… Read More »
What Is A Protective Order For Domestic Violence In Maryland?
Protective orders in Maryland are legal devices employed to protect victims of domestic violence from further abuse. These orders empower the state courts to take legal action and, ideally, prevent the abuser from inflicting further harm. When there is a likelihood of past or future abuse, a domestic violence victim may obtain an interim,… Read More »
When Does Maryland Deviate From The Child Support Guidelines?
Maryland family law requires parents to provide necessary support and care to their children. When parents are married or live together, they typically divide child support obligations without court intervention. But for divorced and unmarried parents, the determination of child support obligations usually resides with the Maryland courts. To help ensure that any award… Read More »
4 Versions Of DUI/DWI Laws & Penalties In Maryland
Maryland Code of Transportation Section 21-902 establishes the laws against and penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while impaired (DWI). Although these crimes appear under the same statute, DUI/DWI can fluctuate based on the type of substance involved, the number of previous offenses (if any), and the circumstances of the offense…. Read More »
Woman Sentenced In Maryland For Interstate Domestic Violence
A U.S. federal judge in Maryland recently sentenced a Florida woman to 16 years in federal prison for interstate domestic violence, according to a Department of Justice press release. According to the plea agreement in this case, the Florida woman made contact with a 17-year-old minor female via social media in May 2017. After… Read More »