Author Archives: Jay Butchko
What is a Postnuptial Agreement under Maryland Family Law?
Maryland family law allows spouses to create legally valid contracts or agreements with each other. When prospective spouses create such a contract before marriage, it is referred to as a prenuptial agreement. These agreements typically address financial imbalances between the spouses or govern property rights. Even after the spouses get married, they are still… Read More »
The Maryland Program for Victims of Domestic Violence
The State of Maryland recognizes the uniquely dangerous situation that confronts victims of domestic violence. As these victims have a close relationship with their abuser, it can be difficult to break away and seek help. To address this problem, the Maryland General Assembly created a program for victims of domestic violence. Among its many… Read More »
Unlawful Interference with Child Visitation Rights in Maryland
Even if one parent has sole legal custody over a child, the other parent generally has certain child visitation rights under Maryland family law. Any person with lawful visitation rights can see the child or children involved on a predetermined schedule. And interference with lawful child visitation is unlawful in Maryland. But before delving… Read More »
Maryland Police Arrest 3 People in Salisbury for Various Drug Crimes
The Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office completed a month-long investigation by arresting three people in Salisbury for various Maryland drug crimes, according to an article by ABC affiliate WMDT. In early June, sheriff’s deputies executed a search and seizure warrant at a domicile in the 400 block of Lindenhurst Court. In the process, the deputies… Read More »
Children Conceived Without Consent Under Maryland Law
Under Maryland law, parents are the natural guardians of their children, which includes child custody rights as well as duties of care and support. Even if the parents are separated, many parents end up splitting custody and support, dividing the burden of caring for their children. When a child is conceived as a result… Read More »
Is There a Time Limit on Alimony Support in Maryland?
Alimony is a type of spousal support payment that attempts to balance inequalities between former spouses who complete a divorce. Either spouse can apply for alimony support payments. However, the Maryland courts must evaluate multiple factors before awarding alimony to either party to a divorce proceeding. What are the Factors for Awarding Alimony? Maryland… Read More »
Review of Handgun Laws & Penalties in Maryland
To safeguard public health and safety, the State of Maryland has strict criminal penalties for numerous types of gun crimes. Unlike certain places, Maryland institutes certain requirements for the purchase and use of firearms, including handguns. Does Maryland Require Permits for Handguns? The general requirement for handgun permits appears in Maryland Code, Public Safety… Read More »
How Does Maryland Family Law Address Missing Children?
Parents, guardians, and custodians with child custody rights are responsible for the wellbeing of children in their care. If such a child goes missing, the person responsible must file a report with local law enforcement immediately. Law enforcement officers will help locate the child and return them safely home. When Does a Child Qualify… Read More »
What are Natural Guardianship Rights for Maryland Parents?
Under Maryland family law, natural birth parents have special rights and duties concerning child custody, care, and support. Referred to legally as natural guardians, parents are required to provide adequate care and support to their children. Even if the natural parents never married or completed a divorce, these rights and duties apply nonetheless. Natural… Read More »
What is the Difference Between Reckless Endangerment & Assault in Maryland?
The Maryland Criminal Code makes it illegal for any person to engage in violent crime, such as reckless endangerment or assault. Even though these offenses have similarities, there are subtle differences between reckless endangerment and assault in the second or first degree. Reckless Endangerment Maryland Code, Criminal Law Section 3-204 details the state laws… Read More »
