Author Archives: Jay Butchko
No-Fault vs. At-Fault Divorces Under Maryland Family Law
A question about Maryland family law that arises commonly involves the difference between no-fault and at-fault divorces. On a larger level, a no-fault divorce means that the parties involved reach mutual agreement to terminate their marriage. Whereas, an at-fault divorce means that one party acted in a way that justifies termination of marriage. But… Read More »
What are Protective Orders Under Maryland Family Law?
Protective orders are legal devices in Maryland that allow the state courts to protect victims of domestic violence and other forms of abuse. Unlike peace orders, protective orders are only available to victims who are connected to the abuser in some fashion. For example, protective orders are available to victims who suffered abuse from… Read More »
Examining 4 Aspects of Spousal Agreements in Maryland
Maryland family law enables married couples to enter into valid and enforceable contracts with each other, such as prenuptial agreements and postnuptial agreements. Sometimes referred to collectively as spousal agreements, these contracts allow spouses to attach mutually acceptable terms and conditions to their marriage. Scope of Spousal Agreements Maryland Code of Family Law Section… Read More »
Local Domestic Violence Fatality Review Teams in Maryland
Recognizing the risk of death inherent with domestic violence cases, the Maryland General Assembly created the Local Domestic Violence Fatality Review Teams (“Local Teams”). These multidisciplinary and multiagency teams exist on a county level throughout the state to ensure that the worst domestic violence cases receive comprehensive review and treatment. Purpose of Local Teams… Read More »
4 Kinds of Property Couples Split Up After Maryland Divorces
When a formerly married couple pursues divorce or annulment, they must go through the process of property division as well. During this process, the soon-to-be divorced couple decide how to split up various types of property that they acquired during their marriage. In common practice, there are generally four different kinds of property that… Read More »
Overview of Maryland Laws Against Destructive Devices
Destructive device laws in Maryland exist under the umbrella of weapon possession crimes. Destructive devices have the potential to inflict severe harm due to the presence of harmful materials or substances. Accordingly, Maryland applies criminal penalties for violations of destructive device laws. What is the Definition of a Destructive Device? Maryland Code, Criminal Law… Read More »
Rejection of Child Visitation Rights Under Maryland Law
Maryland law enables parents, grandparents, and other family members to secure child visitation rights under certain circumstances. These rights allow a non-custodial party, without child custody rights, to spend time with the child in question. At the same time, the Maryland courts have a duty to protect the best interests of any children involved…. Read More »
Possession vs. Distribution of a Controlled Substance in Maryland
In Maryland, it is a drug crime to possess or distribute a controlled substance. These substances are regulated and controlled due to their addictiveness and potential medical use, if any. Illegal drugs like heroin, cocaine, or marijuana are referred to legally as controlled substances. The criminal punishment changes based on whether a person possessed… Read More »
What Happens When Domestic Violence Victims Seek Help in Maryland?
Under Maryland family law, domestic violence is a criminal offense that only occurs when the abuser and the victim are related to each other. When a person becomes a victim of domestic violence, Maryland law requires law enforcement to protect the victim and provide assistance in various other ways. Who Qualifies as a Domestic… Read More »
What are Several Types of Child Custody in Maryland?
When unmarried or divorced parents have a minor child in Maryland, they must figure out several aspects of child custody. Depending on the circumstances — not to mention agreements between the parents, if any — there can be numerous types of child custody arrangements. In certain cases, one parent has full legal and physical… Read More »
