Key Takeaways Maryland’s HB 1191, effective October 1, 2025, replaced decades of case law with 16 statutory custody factors. Judges must now document findings on every factor, bringing consistency across all Maryland counties. The law shifts focus from the parent character to the child’s developmental, emotional, and physical needs. Factors cover practical considerations like parental […]
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Child custody decisions carry lasting consequences, and few feel heavier than seeking sole custody in Maryland. Whether you are trying to protect your child from a difficult co-parent or simply want to understand your legal options before filing, the framework Maryland courts apply is specific and worth knowing before you walk into any hearing. Patrick […]
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Key Takeaways Pensions earned during the marriage qualify as marital property in Maryland. Courts divide marital property equitably, not necessarily equally. Only the portion earned during the marriage is divisible. A QDRO is required to legally transfer pension benefits between spouses. The Bangs formula determines how Maryland courts calculate the marital share. Decades of retirement […]
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Key Takeaways Grandparents have no automatic visitation rights in Maryland Courts grant visitation only when it serves the child’s best interests Parents hold a constitutional presumption over their children’s relationships Grandparents must prove parental unfitness or exceptional circumstances Divorce proceedings can accelerate a grandparent’s visitation petition Few things hurt more than losing access to a […]
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Key Takeaways Maryland law has no fixed unpaid amount that automatically triggers a warrant. A warrant may issue when a parent willfully refuses to follow a support order. Failure to pay child support can result in contempt of court. Maryland Code Family Law §10-203 addresses willful nonpayment of child support. Enforcement may include wage garnishment, […]
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Key Takeaways Financial moves have consequences: How a wife handles money during separation can affect what she walks away with. Social media is not private: Posts, photos, and messages can be pulled into a Maryland divorce case. Children notice everything: Using them as messengers or limiting the other parent’s access can hurt a custody case. […]
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