Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Examining 4 Key Elements of Child Visitation Schedules in Maryland
For divorced or unmarried parents in Maryland, the creation of a child visitation schedule is extremely important. Even in situations where one parent has full physical and legal child custody, the other parent usually retains some visitation rights. Assuming both parents have at least partial custody and visitation, it is necessary to create a… Read More »
How Does Maryland Define & Punish Counterfeiting?
Under the Maryland Criminal Code, counterfeiting is a white collar crime that involves the unlawful reproduction of documents or instruments. In order to qualify as counterfeiting under Maryland law, fraudulent intent is generally required, although in certain circumstances mere possession of counterfeit documents or instruments can be a criminal offense. Counterfeiting Documents or Instruments… Read More »
What is the Maryland Family Law Approach to Alimony?
Under Maryland family law, alimony is a type of spousal support that is available during or after divorce. During the process of ending their marriage, either spouse can request alimony support payments from the other spouse. These support payments are designed to help either spouse get back on their feet and become self-sufficient. The… Read More »
What is the Maryland Domestic Violence Central Repository?
The Maryland Domestic Violence Central Repository (“Central Repository”) exists to collect and aggregate data concerning domestic violence or abuse. Managed by the Administrative Office of the Maryland Courts, the Central Repository stores various records of protective and peace orders. This provides greater visibility into domestic violence offenses and enables state actors to better handle… Read More »
Involuntary Manslaughter & Vehicular Homicide Under Maryland Law
Involuntary manslaughter is a violent crime that involves the death of a person. Vehicular homicide is a type of involuntary manslaughter crime that involves certain vehicles. In either case, the offender causes the death of another person without intending to do so. To understand what this means, the following sections will explore Maryland laws… Read More »
How Does Maryland Address Nonpayment of Spousal or Child Support?
Under Maryland family law, certain individuals are required to make spousal or child support payments. If such an individual fails to make court-ordered support payments, they can face various consequences under Maryland law, including but not limited to prison time and hefty fines. Penalties for Failure to Pay Spousal Support Maryland Code, Family Law… Read More »
What Happens to Marital Property after a Maryland Divorce?
When a married couple decides to pursue a divorce in Maryland, there are many required steps in the legal process. One of those steps involves property division, where the couple must decide how to separate their common property. Referred to legally as marital property, the couple or the state courts generally complete the division… Read More »
How Does Maryland Family Law Determine Matters of Child Custody?
Maryland family law recognizes certain rights and duties with respect to parent-child relationships. Each parent generally has a right to some level of child custody, while also jointly bearing the burden of child support. Though in matters of dispute, the Maryland courts have the authority to determine an appropriate custody arrangement, while honoring the… Read More »
Exploring Maryland Laws Against Child Abuse
Child abuse is a specific type of domestic violence crime under Maryland law. In these cases, the victim is always a minor child under the age of 18 years old. Furthermore, the abuser must have a certain type of relationship with the child victim — such as a parent, guardian, or family member. Important… Read More »
What is the Maryland Approach to Ignition Interlock Systems?
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is an exceedingly dangerous behavior that leads to harm, injury, and even death. To curb this impact, Maryland law requires DUI offenders to install an ignition interlock system for a predetermined amount of time. Once installed, these systems measure for intoxication to help safeguard against… Read More »
