Ending a marriage involves complex decisions about property, finances, and children. Our divorce attorneys help you navigate Maryland’s divorce process, whether pursuing a no-fault divorce, addressing fault-based claims, or negotiating property division, support, and custody. Learn more about how our Divorce Lawyer can guide you through this difficult time.

Sometimes resolving disputes outside of court leads to better outcomes. As a Maryland-certified mediator, Chad Spencer helps couples reach agreements on marital property, alimony, child custody, and child support in a neutral, confidential setting. Discover the benefits of our Mediation services when you want to avoid a lengthy court battle.

Welcoming a child into your family is life changing. Our adoption attorneys assist with agency, private, stepparent, and international adoptions. We handle home studies, petitions, and court filings to ensure a smooth, legally sound process. Find out how our Adoption services can bring your family together.

Child custody decisions focus on what is best for your children. We represent parents in initial custody determinations, modifications, and enforcement of existing orders. Our goal is to secure stable parenting plans, fair visitation schedules, and legal custody arrangements that protect your child’s interests. Read more about our Child Custody representation.

Maryland uses a standardized formula for support orders, taking into account both parents’ incomes, parenting time, and expenses. Whether you need to establish, modify, or enforce a support order, our child support attorneys advocate for fair terms and ensure your children receive the financial resources they deserve. Learn about our Child Support services.

We start with a confidential meeting – either in person or via phone/video – to understand your situation, review documents, and explain relevant laws. We outline likely paths, timelines, and costs so you know what to expect.

Whether your case involves property division, custody issues, or adoption paperwork, we collect all necessary records: financial statements, home study reports, or medical evaluations. Having accurate, thorough evidence helps us negotiate effectively or present a strong case in court.

In many family law matters, reaching an agreement outside of court benefits everyone, especially children. We facilitate negotiations or mediate on issues such as visitation schedules, support amounts, or adoption terms. This process can save time and legal fees while preserving relationships.

If negotiations stall or litigation is unavoidable, we prepare petitions, motions, and affidavits. Our attorneys represent you at each hearing—whether it’s for a preliminary custody order, trial on divorce grounds, or a final adoption hearing—advocating zealously for your interests.

After the court issues an order – whether it’s a divorce decree, custody arrangement, or adoption decree – circumstances may change. We assist with modifications to custody or support orders, enforce existing judgments, and ensure your rights remain protected over time.

Timing depends on factors like the court’s schedule, complexity of issues, and willingness to negotiate. An uncontested divorce may conclude within a few months, while contested cases can take a year or more.

Maryland courts focus on the child’s best interests, evaluating each parent’s ability to provide a stable home, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse or neglect. If a child is old enough, the court may consider their preference.

In most adoptions, both parents must consent or have their parental rights terminated by the court. Exceptions include stepparent or relative adoptions under certain conditions. Our adoption attorneys explain your options based on your family’s circumstances.

Maryland uses an income-shares model. The combined net income of both parents determines a base support amount, which is then adjusted for shared care, childcare costs, and uninsured medical expenses. Our attorneys prepare accurate financial affidavits to ensure fair calculations.

Mediation works best when both parties can communicate openly and commit to reaching mutual agreements – for example, on property division, parenting plans, or support amounts. If there is a history of domestic violence or one spouse is unwilling to negotiate, mediation may not be suitable.