Author Archives: Jay Butchko
What Happens if Someone Fails to Pay Spousal or Child Support in Maryland?
In the interest of fairness and equity, a Maryland court can order a person to pay spousal or child support on a periodic basis. These support payments help ensure that a spouse and any minor children are able to survive after a divorce or other type of relationship split. Once a Maryland court issues… Read More »
What is an Independent Adoption in Maryland?
Orphanages and foster homes tend to dominate any discussion concerning adoption. Whether state-funded or privately run, these facilities house and care for a large number of orphaned children across Maryland and the United States. But those facilities are not the only source for prospective adoption in Maryland. Many adoptions occur outside of the orphanage… Read More »
What are the Rules in Maryland Concerning Assisted Suicide?
Often referred to euthanasia, assisted suicide is the act of helping another person intentionally take their own life. This is a controversial topic, especially for the elderly and people suffering from intractable pain. It might seem humane to help that person end their misery. The problem is that death is final. There is no… Read More »
4 Essential Features of Maryland Prenuptial Agreements
Prenuptial agreements are a form of contract that a couple can execute before they get married. Prenuptial agreements are contingent upon marriage. If the parties do not actually get married, then the prenuptial agreement becomes null and void. Although the parties negotiate a prenuptial agreement before marriage, the terms are not effective until after… Read More »
Maryland Rights for Natural Parents of Minor Children
Under Maryland law, the natural parents of a minor child have certain rights and duties, such as child custody and care. In most cases, these rights and duties expire once the child reaches adulthood. At that point, the child is not a minor and responsible for their self-sufficiency. But so long as the child… Read More »
The Family Home & Family Use Personal Property in Maryland
When a married couple decides to pursue a divorce in Maryland, they must settle on how to deal with property division. The soon-to-be former spouses must either agree on a fair split or allow a Maryland court to carve up everything. Either way, there must be a final answer as to property division before… Read More »
How Does Maryland Address Reckless, Negligent & Aggressive Driving?
Across all state roadways in Maryland, it is unlawful to engage in reckless, negligent or aggressive driving. These offenses and similar traffic violations represent a serious danger of personal injury and property damage. To safeguard drivers from this type of behavior on state roads, Maryland employs strict laws and criminal penalties for reckless, negligent… Read More »
Parental Support for Adult Destitute Children in Maryland
On the topic of child support, almost everyone thinks about minor children. After all, minor children are not able to earn a living or provide for themselves. Consequently, a parent, guardian or custodian must account for the minor child’s well-being. If the child’s parent divorce, then the courts determine not only custody of the… Read More »
4 Types of Assets under Maryland Property Division Rules
When a married couple gets divorced in Maryland, there is a system of rules and guidelines in place to determine property division between the spouses. Unlike many U.S. jurisdictions, Maryland does not adhere to community property rules, where the former spouses split all marital assets down the middle. This type of 50-50 split is… Read More »
What is the Difference Between At-Fault and No-Fault Divorces in Maryland?
In historical context, divorce is a modern concept. A long time ago, marriage was a permanent and final act. Marriages continued until one spouse died. Only then could the other spouse consider remarrying. Gradually, the times began to change and the need for divorce became clear. If one spouse engages in domestic violence or… Read More »
