Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Domestic Violence & Child Abuse or Neglect in Maryland
Domestic violence laws in Maryland provide special considerations for child victims of abuse or neglect. In these unfortunate situations, state law requires mandatory reporting of suspected abuse or neglect. This allows state agencies to act swiftly to protect at-risk children. When there is any indication of harm or injury to a child, extraordinary measures… Read More »
What is an Absolute Divorce Under Maryland Family Law?
Even though marriage is supposed to last forever, divorce is a common reality for many spouses. When two spouses are unable to resolve their differences, Maryland family law allows them to pursue an absolute divorce. Unlike limited divorce, which can be reversed, absolute divorce is permanent. In order to pursue an absolute divorce in… Read More »
When Does Assault Become Domestic Violence Under Maryland Law?
Domestic violence in Maryland represents the intersection of criminal and family law. That is because domestic violence only occurs between family or household members who share a certain type of relationship. Furthermore, domestic violence incorporates many types of criminal offenses, including various assault crimes. What are the Maryland Laws Governing Assault? Maryland law provides… Read More »
Analyzing 3 Variations of Robbery Crimes in Maryland
In Maryland, robbery crimes largely follow common law. This means that robbery occurs when a perpetrator steals a victim’s property using force or the threat of force. The perpetrator must also intend to permanently deprive the victim of ownership. At common law, robbery is a crime that combines theft and assault into one offense…. Read More »
What is the Maryland Difference Between Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements?
Maryland family law enables spouses to enter into legally enforceable agreements and other devices, before and after marriage. When prospective spouses enter into such an agreement before marriage, it is referred to legally as a prenuptial agreement. When they do so after marriage, it is referred to legally as a postnuptial agreement. Legal Background… Read More »
4 Kinds of Property Considered During Maryland Divorces
When spouses decide to end their marriage and pursue divorce, they must go through the process of property division as well. From a general standpoint, property division refers to how the spouses split up anything they acquired during their marriage. In many cases, the spouses can reach a mutual understanding and split up their… Read More »
4 FAQs on Protective Orders for Maryland Domestic Violence Victims
A protective order is a tool available to the Maryland state courts to help safeguard victims of domestic violence and other forms of abuse. When granted, these orders can prevent the perpetrator from contacting the victim and even grant possession of a shared residence. That being said, protective orders are not appropriate in every… Read More »
3 Types of Adoption Under Maryland Family Law
Adoption under Maryland family law is a legal process that reassigns parental rights and responsibilities from birth parent to adopting parent. Adoption generally involves children. Though in certain cases, adoption cases involve adults, often those with special needs. To initiate the adoption process, a request for adoption must be filed with a Maryland state… Read More »
How Does Maryland Criminal Law Address Marijuana?
Even though a growing number of U.S. states have legalized marijuana for recreational use, it remains a controlled substance under Maryland law. Accordingly, it is still a crime to possess or use marijuana in amounts of 10 grams or more in in Maryland, although exceptions exist for patients who use medical marijuana with a… Read More »
Actual Adjusted Income & Maryland Child Support Obligations
Under Maryland Family Law, parents must ensure that they take care of and support their children. To calculate the level of child support each parent should pay, the State of Maryland employs a set of guidelines. These guidelines ensure that the level of support required is fair to all parties concerned. The starting point… Read More »
