BRP Family Law Firm – Experienced, Loyal Attorneys
At Brodsky Renehan Pearlstein & Bouquet, Chartered, we have always maintained a simple, yet effective, approach to family law. By having a singular focus on... Read More
Blog
Family law matters are difficult and emotionally trying. They often cause uncertainty and doubt. Our resources section is filled with helpful information on a variety of family law matters. It is intended to help you educate yourself on the divorce & family law process in Maryland and D.C.
Divorce on the Grounds of Mutual Consent: Getting Divorced While Still Living Together
Prior to October 2015, in order to obtain an absolute divorce in the State of Maryland on no-fault grounds, the divorcing couple was required to be living separate and apart without cohabitation for a period of one year. This changed effective October 1, 2015 when legislation was passed which allowed parties who still lived together to divorce if certain criteria was met.
Annulment In Maryland and Its Consequences
There are basically three general avenues by which a marriage can end: death, divorce and annulment. Death is obvious and divorce is the most commonly thought of endpoint to a marriage when death does not terminate it first. The often less contemplated end to a marriage is by annulment.
Santo v. Santo & Joint Custody With Tie-Breaking Authority in Maryland
In a recent decision, Santo v. Santo (citation not yet available), published July 11, 2016, the Maryland Court of Appeals confirmed a trial judge’s authority to award one party tie-breaking authority, for legal custody, even when parents have an inability to communicate on major decisions affecting the health, education, welfare, religion of a minor child. What does this mean in your case?
What Is Considered Marital or Non-Marital Property in Maryland?
Clients regularly confuse what is considered “marital property” as opposed to “non-marital” property. Identifying marital versus non-marital property becomes even more difficult when non-marital property is commingled (or mixed) with marital property.
Custody Evaluations in Maryland and the District of Columbia: How To Interact with the Evaluator Handling Your Case
In Maryland and the District of Columbia, courts must determine what is in a child’s best interest to make a custody determination. This is a difficult process for the court, and is fraught with gray areas and ambiguities. Thus, the court may order a custody evaluation to assist in its decision making.
Family Law, Divorce, & Custody: Is Social Media Helpful or Hurtful?
In 2016, everyone can be found on the internet—and by anyone! That includes the attorney of your soon to be ex. With social media embedded on our phones and intertwined throughout our lives, it is showing up in courtrooms and affecting custody cases, divorce proceedings, and other family law matters. Understand the rules of engagement before you post one more photo or seemingly harmless update.
Significant Change in Maryland Custody Law: Recognition of De Facto Parents Impacts Same-sex Relationships & Non-Adoptive Partners
On July 7, 2016 non-biological parents in Maryland won important rights with regard to custody and visitation. Prior to that date, Maryland did not recognize what is known as de facto parenthood. The opinion of the Maryland Court of Appeals in Conover v. Conover establishes recognition of de facto parents in Maryland. This is a major change in Maryland custody law.