Family law is an area of law that deals with issues related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, adoption, and child support. Family law also covers topics such as property division, prenuptial agreements, domestic violence, and peace orders.
Family law issues can be emotionally challenging and legally complex, and may involve a range of legal issues, including but not limited to contract law, property law, and tax law.
Family law cases are typically heard in state courts.
Family law attorneys – like those at Baumohl Hamburg -- are experienced lawyers who focus almost exclusively on legal issues related to families. They may represent clients in divorce proceedings, child custody disputes, adoption proceedings, or other family law matters.
Overall, family law is an important area of law that helps families navigate complex legal issues and ensures that the rights of family members are protected under the law.
Domestic Violence
Frequently asked question regarding domestic violence in Maryland
What is domestic violence?
Domestic violence is abuse that occurs between family or household members, including physical, emotional, sexual, or economic abuse, as well as stalking or harassment.
Who can seek a protective order in Maryland?
Any person who is a victim of domestic violence or who has a reasonable fear of imminent domestic violence can seek a protective order in Maryland.
What types of protective orders are available in Maryland?
There are three types of protective orders available in Maryland: interim, temporary, and final. Interim orders can be issued by a commissioner without a hearing, while temporary and final orders require a hearing in front of a judge.
What happens if someone violates a protective order?
Violating a protective order is a criminal offense in Maryland, and the offender can be charged with a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances.
Can domestic violence affect child custody and visitation?
Yes, the history of domestic violence can be a factor in child custody and visitation decisions in Maryland. The court will consider the safety of the children involved when making these decisions.
What resources are available for victims of domestic violence in Maryland?
Maryland offers a range of support services for victims of domestic violence, including counseling, shelter, legal advocacy, and other resources. The state also has a 24-hour hotline that victims can call for help.
Domestic violence is a serious issue in Maryland, and our state has laws and resources in place to help victims of domestic violence. Here is some information on domestic violence in Maryland:
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Definition of domestic violence: In Maryland, domestic violence is defined as abuse that occurs between family or household members. This can include physical, emotional, sexual, or economic abuse, as well as stalking or harassment.
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Protective orders: Victims of domestic violence can seek protective orders from the court, which prohibit the abuser from contacting or coming near the victim. There are three types of protective orders available in Maryland: interim, temporary, and final.
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Criminal charges: Domestic violence is a criminal offense in Maryland, and abusers can be charged with assault, stalking, harassment, or other crimes. Victims can work with law enforcement to file criminal charges against their abuser.
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Support services: Maryland offers a range of support services for victims of domestic violence, including counseling, shelter, legal advocacy, and other resources. The state also has a 24-hour hotline that victims can call for help.
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Child custody and visitation: In cases of domestic violence, the safety of the children involved is a primary concern. Maryland courts will consider the history of domestic violence when making decisions about child custody and visitation, and may order supervised visitation or other measures to protect the children.
Overall, domestic violence is a serious issue in Maryland, and victims have legal and support resources available to them. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, it is important to seek help as soon as possible.
Adoption
Adoption in Maryland is a legal process in which an individual or a couple becomes the legal parent(s) of a child who is not biologically related to them.
Some key points about adoption in Maryland include:
Who can adopt in Maryland?
Maryland law allows any adult who is at least 21 years old to adopt a child. Married couples and individuals may both adopt.
Who can be adopted in Maryland?
In Maryland, any person under the age of 18 can be adopted. Children who are 12 years old or older must consent to the adoption.
What is the adoption process in Maryland?
The adoption process in Maryland may involve several steps, including applying, undergoing a home study, attending training and education sessions, and attending a court hearing to finalize the adoption. The process can take several months to a year or more.
Are there different types of adoption in Maryland?
Yes, there are several types of adoption in Maryland, including agency adoption, private adoption, and stepparent adoption. Agency adoption involves adopting a child through a licensed adoption agency, while private adoption involves adopting a child directly from the birth parent(s) or a third-party intermediary. Stepparent adoption involves adopting the child of a spouse or domestic partner.
What are the legal requirements for adoption in Maryland?
In addition to meeting the age requirement and going through the adoption process, prospective adoptive parents must also ordinarily meet other legal requirements, such as passing a criminal background check, providing financial information, and completing a medical examination.
Can same-sex couples adopt in Maryland?
Yes, same-sex couples are allowed to adopt in Maryland. Maryland law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation in adoption.
Can birth parents change their minds after an adoption in Maryland?
In Maryland, birth parents have 30 days after signing a consent to adoption to revoke their consent. After that period, the consent is considered final and irrevocable.
What are the costs associated with adoption in Maryland?
Adoption costs in Maryland can vary widely depending on the type of adoption, agency fees, legal fees, and other expenses. Some adoption expenses may be eligible for reimbursement through the Adoption Tax Credit.