Bel Air Divorce Lawyer
Advocating for Your Interests in the Divorce Process from Start to Finish
At Schlaich & Thompson, Chartered, our Bel Air divorce lawyers have 55 combined years of experience safeguarding clients in Bel Air through the divorce process with a practical and understanding approach. Whether you are ending a marriage, protecting assets, modifying an original divorce decree, seeking a prenuptial agreement or involved in paternity issues, we are here to help you.
As divorce lawyers, we tailor our services to meet the specific needs and challenges of your unique situation. We believe in educating clients about the legal issues and processes you face. We make sure you know what to expect during and after your divorce. Our goal is for you to make the best decisions for your situation and never lose sight of what is best for you and your children.
Two Types of Divorce in Maryland
Our divorce lawyers know that a divorce can have an emotional, financial and legal impact on you and your family. Divorce is never easy, and some cases are more complicated than others. In Maryland there are two types:
- No-fault divorce ― A couple may obtain a no-fault divorce if they have been separated for one year continuously and without interruption and with no expectation or hope of reconciliation.
- Fault divorce ― When a couple files for divorce on the grounds of fault, one or more of the following factors is usually cited:
- Cruel treatment of a spouse or a minor child
- Excessively vicious treatment of a spouse or a minor child
- Adultery
- Desertion
During the divorce process, we are ready to discuss and advocate for your interests in the following matters:
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support
- Alimony or spousal support
- Property division
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
- Modification actions
- Paternity actions
- Separation agreements
Maryland Property Division
Disputes are bound to arise over who gets the house, who gets the car, and who will receive other marital property. Even when both parties are in agreement regarding marital property, it is best to consult with an attorney to ensure that the other spouse is not hiding assets from you, as well as to ensure that no last-minute surprises are sprung on you of which you are not made aware in time.
Child Custody, and Visitation
Child-related marital issues can be complex and emotional. When parents are in agreement and decide upon shared legal custody, it goes a long way in the marriage to creating a better relationship. After all, the parents, though no longer married, will still have to be around each other and communicate for years to come. However, when the parents enter a battle for custody, it is important to keep a cool, calm demeanor for as much of the process as you can. Custody is often awarded, in part, to the parent who can show that they put their own interests after their child, and are not out to demean the other parent in front of their child.
Child Support, Insurance, and Education
Child support is a tricky subject, because the paying parent usually wants it to be as low as possible, while the receiving parent wants it to be as high as possible. We assist our clients with a support order suited to their own and their child’s needs. You must also consider payment for such items as health insurance, education, and other expenses, which your attorney can help explain to you.
Spousal Support
Spousal support, or alimony, is an important tool for many lower earning spouses after or during divorce. Spousal support comes in many forms, from rehabilitative to permanent long-term support. The divorce rate is climbing for those 50 and older, according to the Pew Research Center. Long-term spousal support is generally only given in marriages that last a long time and/or when the
Contact our Experienced Bel Air Divorce Lawyers
Our Bel Air divorce lawyers possess the skill and experience necessary to protect your rights and advocate for your interests by negotiating favorable settlements. Most divorces that are settled in court are expensive, lengthy, and filled with emotion. It does not have to be this way, however. We can help you with a collaborative divorce or find other means to settle differences. After all, divorce settled in court costs two to four times as much as it would out of court, according to U.S. News & World Report. No matter your situation, we handle all of our cases with the utmost care and concern for our clients’ well-being. Contact Schlaich & Thompson Chartered today for assistance with your case at 410-838-0004 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
