Glen Burnie Child Custody Lawyer

What to Expect in the Maryland Child Custody Process

Maryland's custody laws favor providing both parents an opportunity to have custody. That means neither the father or mother have an advantage. The custody process is driven by one major concern – the best interests of the child.

This is true during every phase of the proceedings including:

• Initial arrangement
• Possible modifications of the original order
• Visitation requests by other assorted family members

At Ward & Co., Chtd., we realize that your children are your number one priority. Your relationship with them is precious, and we want to help you do what is best for them during this trying period, but also in the subsequent years. Our child custody attorneys in Glen Burnie do everything they can to help you protect your children and steer their future in whichever direction you feel will allow them to best thrive.

Types of Child Custody

There is both a physical and a legal component to custody, which can be awarded either to a sole guardian or jointly. In order to be equipped for what’s ahead, it is important to understand the different terms and options.

Here is a breakdown of your custody options:

• Physical custody: establishes where the child will live
• Legal custody: determines who is responsible for making important decisions for the child, along the lines of education, religion, and health care
• Sole custody: when one guardian has complete control of the child either physically, legally, or both
• Joint custody: means both parents share in the child’s physical and/or legal custody

While there are exceptions with concerns such as child abuse or varying forms of violence, the court typically places an emphasis on the child in question maintaining a relationship with both parents, regardless of if only one gets full custody. This occurs through the granting of visitation rights (sometimes referred to as child access in Maryland).

How to Get Sole or Full Custody in MD

When it comes to awarding child custody in Maryland, the court focuses on “the best interest of the child.” This general standard includes various factors, such as each parent’s character and financial resources. In order to get full custody of a child in Maryland, a parent must prove that this decision would be in the best interest of the child.

We Prioritize Your Children’s Best Interests

We know that when it comes to your children, there is nothing you wouldn’t do to ensure their well-being. There are many ways in which our Glen Burnie custody lawyers can help you navigate this process. With specificity and communication, both parties involved will be able to create a plan or schedule that prioritizes your children and protects your rights. We can assist in the creation of this plan, or even just provide mediation that ensures all parties are cooperative and fair. We aim to help things remain civil and avoid bitter custody battles, but if it comes to it we will do what it takes to help you protect your children’s well-being.