Category Archives: Family Law
How Does Maryland Law Address Prenuptial Agreements?
A prenuptial agreement is a contract that future spouses execute before they get married. Most prenuptial agreements protect one spouse’s assets and property from the other spouse. If the spouses ever get divorced, a valid prenuptial agreement overrides the usual rules concerning property division. In certain cases, prenuptial agreements can dictate the future terms… Read More »
What is a Child in Need of Assistance in Maryland?
The definition of child in need of assistance (CINA) appears in Maryland Courts and Judicial Proceedings Code Section 3–801. There are two requirements under the law. First, a Maryland court can only intervene and help a child based on: Abuse — The child suffered physical or emotional abuse at the hands of a parent,… Read More »
7 Key Definitions for Domestic Violence Cases in Maryland
Domestic violence laws make it unlawful to abuse or commit other violent acts against family members. Sometimes referred to legally as domestic abuse, this offense combines certain facets of criminal and family law. To help get a firm grasp on domestic violence laws in Maryland, the following sections will define seven key terms. Abuse… Read More »
What Happens if Divorcing Spouses Cannot Agree on Property Division?
In terms of property division during a Maryland divorce, it is increasingly common for the spouses to enter into a marital separation agreement. By negotiating the exact distribution of all marital property, the spouses can avoid a potentially ugly battle in court. If the spouses cannot come to a mutual agreement concerning their shared… Read More »
5 FAQs About Alimony in Maryland
The following sections will provide answers to five frequently asked questions about alimony in Maryland. What is the Purpose of Alimony in Maryland? Alimony is a type of spousal support payment that is available during and after divorce. These support payments are designed to address economic imbalances between the divorcing spouses. On a larger… Read More »
7 Grounds for Absolute Divorce in Maryland
Under Maryland Family Code 7-103, there are several grounds for which a Maryland court may declare an absolute divorce and dissolve a valid marriage. The following sections will provide an overview of seven different grounds for absolute divorce in Maryland. Adultery A Maryland court may declare an absolute divorce based on adultery. The faithful… Read More »
6 Variations of Child Custody Arrangements in Maryland
Child custody is an important consideration for unmarried parents and divorced couples. If either parent can obtain sole custody, then they have the power to control most aspects of their children’s lives. To understand the boundaries of this legal issue, the following sections will explore six concepts involved in child custody arrangements in Maryland…. Read More »
How Does Maryland Calculate Alimony During a Divorce?
Alimony is a type of support payment that occurs during or after divorce. Often referred to legally as spousal support, alimony exists to address a financial or other imbalance between a divorcing couple. The disadvantaged spouse can make progress toward self-sufficiency with regular alimony payments for a fixed period of time. In Maryland, a… Read More »
6 Key Provisions of Marital Separation Agreements in Maryland
During a Maryland divorce, it is possible for the spouses to simplify the process and execute a marital separation agreement. If the spouses can reach mutual agreement on a number of important terms, then divorce can be as simple as signing a contract in Maryland. While each marital separation agreement is different, most of… Read More »
Receiving Maryland Child Support via Direct Deposit or EPiC
Child support is a legal mechanism that ensures both parents contribute to the welfare of their children. During a divorce or custody process, a Maryland court can order one parent to pay child support to the other parent. Generally, the noncustodial parent makes support payments to the custodial parent. This accounts for the additional… Read More »
