Bel Air, MD Child Custody Attorney
Being part of a child custody process in Bel Air, MD is never easy. Fighting for the custody of children is one of the most contentious battles couples can go through. However, you don’t have to go through this challenging time alone. Our Bel Air, MD custody attorneys can help you.
We know how difficult dealing with this process can be. That is why we work tirelessly, aggressively, and strategically to defend your rights as a parent every step of the way. Let our experience, skill, and dedication work for you. To learn more about our services in a free, confidential consultation, call Rice, Murtha & Psoras today at (479) 439-9840.
How is Custody Determined in Bel Air, MD?
Maryland family courts will always consider the child’s best interest when making custody decisions. Both parents can reach an agreement to share the custody of their children. However, in most cases, couples cannot reach an agreement, which may require taking their case to court for a custody hearing. Many people tend to believe there is a preference in favor of the mother instead of the father in terms of custody. However, this is not the case in Maryland – or any other court in the U.S. As we mentioned, the court will always protect the child’s integrity and well-being when making custody determinations.
Different factors may sway the court to choose one parent over the other. In their analysis, Maryland’s family courts will look at factors such as the parents’ suitability to possess sole custody over their children. There are cases where the court can decide a parent is more suitable to hold sole custody of their kids instead of granting joint custody. For instance, if you are financially stable, have adequate housing, live in a good neighborhood, and can provide your child with a safe environment while the other parent cannot, you may get sole custody.
Moreover, if one of the parents has been charged and convicted for child abuse, neglect, or abuse against the other parent, the court may grant you sole custody. If the child is old enough to understand the implications of their decisions, the court may consider their preferences during the custody hearing. These are not the only factors that the court will consider when making custody determinations. However, they serve the purpose of showing the seriousness of such a decision. It is always in your best interest to hire an experienced Bel Air, MD custody attorney who can guide you through the process.
Types of Child Custody in Bel Air, MD
Maryland courts are in favor of letting both parents participate in their children’s lives. In addition to the love and care a child needs, the court also expects parents to provide them with everything they need in their upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and clothing – among many other things. However, couples do not always agree with the custody arrangements. This is the reason why most couples seek the court’s assistance to determine custody based on the child’s best interests.
There are two main types of custody available in Maryland: legal and physical custody. Parents have the ability to make major decisions over their children’s lives through custody. A legal parent can have control over their child’s important decisions such as their education, religion, and healthcare. Physical custody means your child will spend most of their time under your roof, and you will make decisions over their day-to-day life.
There is legal and physical custody in Maryland, which doesn’t mean these custodies cannot be shared. There are instances where the court may favor joint custody, in which case, both parents can make determinations over their children’s lives. In all other cases, the court may or may not grant visitation rights to the parent without sole legal custody.
As we mentioned, the court will base their custody determinations taking into consideration the child’s best interests and well-being. Additionally, they will look closely at each parent’s ability to participate in their children’s lives. To learn more about how Bel Air, MD custody hearings work, it is best to contact an experienced Bel Air, MD custody attorney who can fight for your rights as a parent.
Can a Child Custody Order be Modified in Bel Air, MD?
It is possible to make a modification to your child custody order in Bel Air, MD. However, getting a modification may not be as easy as it may sound. To request and subsequently obtain a custody modification in Maryland, the petitioner must prove there are material changes that may justify its concession. Any parent has the ability to argue that there have been changes that can grant them the custody of their children. However, the court will expect the petitioner to provide evidence of their claims before they can proceed with a modification.
First, Maryland courts have the power to modify a child custody order if it serves the children’s best interests. If the circumstances are significant, the court may evaluate your case and grant a modification. Suppose your ex-spouse has legal custody over your children. After a couple of years, you realize they have been dealing with severe drug abuse. Under these circumstances, you can make the case that the parent with legal custody cannot make sound decisions due to their drug problems. If the court determines that your children are at risk, they may modify your child custody – dependent upon your ability to support your claim through evidence.
Bel Air Child Custody Attorney Offering Free Consultations
If you or a loved one is going through a custody battle in Maryland, we can help. Our Bel Air, MD custody attorneys from Rice, Murtha & Psoras can fight aggressively and strategically to defend your rights as a parent. We know how challenging dealing with this kind of process can be. That is why we dedicate all of our efforts to working tirelessly and walking you through the entire custody process. To learn more about our services in a free, confidential consultation, call our law offices today at (479) 439-9840.