Author Archives: Jay Butchko
What is the Maryland Difference Between Rape in the First & Second Degrees?
The State of Maryland prohibits a wide range of violent crimes, including rape in the first and second degrees. Given the severity of these sex crimes, the applicable criminal penalties are correspondingly harsh. Based on the circumstances of the offense, a rape offender can face life in prison in Maryland. What are the Maryland… Read More »
Surveying 3 Versions of Domestic Violence in Maryland
In the State of Maryland, domestic violence involves abuse at the hands of a family or household member. Typically, this means that the perpetrator and victim are related by blood, marriage, or adoption. Though roommates, romantic partners, and other close associations also qualify for domestic violence protection in Maryland. In addition to widely recognized… Read More »
Comparing Various Robbery & Carjacking Crimes in Maryland
Maryland law criminalizes various offenses against the person, including multiple versions of robbery and carjacking. These theft crimes involve the use or threat of force. Though depending on the circumstances of the offense, the Maryland punishment generally increases or decreases accordingly. Before discussing the penalties for robbery or carjacking, it will be helpful to… Read More »
How Does Maryland Address Family Property Division After Divorce?
When a married couple decides to pursue a divorce in Maryland, there are countless factors to evaluate, including property division. The process of dividing property in a mutually agreeable fashion can be difficult for many parties to a divorce. This is particularly true regarding family property, including the family home and family use personal… Read More »
Does Maryland Family Law Allow Children to Request Custody Changes?
The Maryland state courts will usually issue a child custody order when unmarried or divorced parents live apart. Subject to the best interests of the child, these orders provide specific rules for parenting time, living arrangements, visitation, and many other important considerations. Though in certain situations, a minor child may request a change to… Read More »
Protective Orders for Victims of Domestic Violence in Maryland
A protective order is a legal device available to the Maryland state courts in cases of domestic violence. These orders can help stop ongoing abuse and guard against future harm. But unlike peace orders, which are available to most abused victims, protective orders are restricted to situations where the abuser and victim are related…. Read More »
What Happens if Someone Violates a Protective Order in Maryland?
Under Maryland family law, a protective order allows the state courts to intervene in cases of abuse or domestic violence. Only certain types of victims qualify for protective orders, as a specific type of relationship with the alleged abuser is required. Generally speaking, Maryland reserves protective orders for situations where the alleged abuse occurred… Read More »
What is an Independent Adoption Under Maryland Family Law?
Independent adoption occurs without the assistance of a child placement agency, whether public or private. A common example of independent adoption is when a divorced parent gets remarried. Independent adoption can allow the new spouse to become a parent by adopting their partner’s child. Eligibility for Independent Adoption Maryland Code of Family Law Section… Read More »
What is the Difference Between Aggressive, Negligent & Reckless Driving?
The Maryland Code of Transportation establishes statewide rules of the road and defines numerous types of traffic offenses. In addition to criminal offenses such as DUI, it is also illegal in Maryland to commit aggressive, negligent, or reckless driving. To discern the subtle differences between these traffic offenses, the following sections will examine several… Read More »
Overview of Maryland Approach to Child Support Obligations
In the State of Maryland, unmarried or divorced parents of minor children must each handle their fair share of child support obligations. Stated otherwise, the parents must divide the burden of caring for their minor children amongst themselves. However, the child support obligation changes based on various factors, such as income level or custody… Read More »
