Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Removal Of A Child Subject To Maryland Visitation Rights
When a child is subject to visitation rights in Maryland, relatives must honor any legally binding arrangement approved by the state courts. It is a criminal offense to remove such a child without express permission, even if it occurs for a short time within Maryland’s borders. Before delving into the specifics of removing a… Read More »
Is It Possible To Deviate From The Child Support Guidelines In Maryland?
Maryland family law requires unmarried and divorced parents to pay an appropriate amount of child support. To simplify this process, the Maryland General Assembly created a formula C officially referred to as the child support guidelines C to divide support obligations across both parents. While these guidelines are typically mandatory, there are circumstances that… Read More »
3 Maryland Traffic Offenses Involving Use Of & Damage To Motor Vehicles
When most people think of traffic offenses under Maryland law, common infractions that tend to arise involve speeding or DUI. But in addition to these offenses, the Maryland Code of Transportation also prohibits certain conduct that involves using, damaging, or tampering with motor vehicles. In this context, it is vital to note several exceptions… Read More »
Examining 4 Elements Of Robbery Crimes Under Maryland Law
Robbery is a common law crime that involves unlawfully obtaining another person’s property by way of force or the threat of force. As a reminder, robbery is a felony crime under Maryland Code of Criminal Law Section 3-402. Upon conviction for this offense in Maryland, the applicable punishment includes a maximum prison sentence of… Read More »
Foster Care & Adoption Under Maryland Family Law
Foster care is an out-of-home placement program that enables the State of Maryland to assume child custody in certain situations. This program delivers short-term care and other services to children subjected to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. As foster care is meant to be a temporary program, foster children are typically returned to their natural… Read More »
Maryland Address Confidentiality Program For Domestic Violence Victims
Domestic violence victims in Maryland can face an uphill battle to escape further harm at the hands of their abuser. In certain cases, protective orders can help prevent further abuse or harm. But in other cases, the abuser ignores the protective order and continues to harm or threaten a domestic violence victim. To help… Read More »
Examining 3 Requirements For Divorce Actions In Maryland
Maryland family law imposes numerous requirements on divorce actions. Before a married couple can pursue a divorce, they must be able to demonstrate an acceptable reason, which is referred to legally as a “ground.” In certain cases, there is a residency requirement. And when children are involved, parents may need to complete an educational… Read More »
How Can Domestic Violence Victims Request Protective Orders In Maryland?
Maryland family law provides numerous considerations and protections for domestic violence victims. When a person suffers actual or attempted abuse at the hands of a relative, it is possible to request a protective order from the Maryland courts. These orders allow the state courts to intervene on behalf of a victim and, ideally, safeguard… Read More »
3 FAQs On Prenuptial Agreements In Maryland
Before prospective spouses get married in Maryland, they can execute a prenuptial agreement to govern certain rights in the event of divorce, such as alimony or property division. These agreements are mutually agreeable contracts that are generally valid and enforceable under Maryland law. But state law also prohibits certain terms and conditions from appearing… Read More »
Does Maryland Require Ignition Interlock Systems For DUI?
Maryland law prohibits any person from driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances. Any person who commits DUI in Maryland can face serious consequences — up to and including confinement and fines. In addition to these criminal penalties, DUI offenders in Maryland can also face the requirement of… Read More »
