Maryland Family Law

Understanding Child Custody and Property Division The question, “Is Maryland a 50/50 divorce state?” is a common and crucial query we encounter early in the divorce process. This question, while seemingly straightforward, requires a nuanced understanding, especially when it pertains to child custody and property division. Maryland is not a 50/50 divorce state or a […]

Maryland is not a community property state; it operates under the system of equitable distribution. This distinction is crucial for understanding how property is divided in the event of a divorce. Community Property vs. Equitable Distribution Community property states generally split marital assets and debts equally (50/50) between spouses upon divorce. In contrast, equitable distribution […]

Filing for divorce in Maryland requires an understanding of the state’s residency requirements. As of October 2023, Maryland has specific criteria that must be met to initiate divorce proceedings. In this guide, we cover questions about the state’s residency requirements for filing for divorce in Maryland, including any recent changes to these requirements. Maryland Residency […]

It is essential to have an understanding of the Maryland divorce process in order to make navigating its complexities more manageable. This blog post will provide valuable insight into the different types of divorces available, how long they take, and factors that influence their length as well as steps taken throughout, such topics include child […]

As of October 1, 2023, Maryland divorce laws underwent significant changes aimed at streamlining and simplifying the divorce process. Limited divorces have been eliminated, and absolute divorce requirements have been adjusted. These changes foster a more cooperative atmosphere in marriage dissolution, shifting the focus away from assigning blame. Consequently, these new regulations have wide-reaching effects […]

Can one lawyer represent both parties in a divorce? Often, we have potential clients inquire or assume that families can share the same attorney in certain cases. Petrelli Previtera does not provide this service for divorce or pre-nuptial agreements, even if allowed by your state. This arrangement is known as joint representation or dual representation, […]

Family dynamics can be complicated, and when marriages or relationships break down, custody of children can become a significant point of contention. One particularly challenging situation arises when one parent moves out of state with the child(ren) without the other parent’s consent. This guide delves into the intricacies of this issue, focusing on laws across […]

In Maryland, the changing landscape of family structures, along with the rise in grandparents assuming parental roles, has prompted increased legal discussions regarding their rights concerning their grandchildren. While parents unquestionably possess the fundamental right to raise their children, Maryland recognizes the significant role that grandparents and third parties can play in a child’s life. […]

Alimony, also known as spousal support, is a common aspect of divorce settlements in Maryland. However, circumstances may change over time, leading to a need for modifying the alimony arrangement. This guide provides an overview of the factors that could allow for the modification of alimony in Maryland, the process for modification, answers to frequently […]

When it comes to matters of custody and visitation rights in Maryland, the state has specific laws in place to address the rights of grandparents and non-parents. While the primary focus is typically on the parents’ rights and responsibilities, Maryland recognizes that there may be circumstances where it is in the best interest of the […]