SmollonLaw includes an experienced family law attorney with more than 25 years experience which the Anne Arundel County, Howard County, and Baltimore communities have known for years. We provide representation to those facing divorce, child custody and access, alimony, adoption, guardianship, and military family law issues. In addition, we represent clients who are establishing domestic partnerships, and we provide legal assistance in the area of wills, powers of attorney, and advanced directives.
We are skilled advocates in both litigation and negotiation who diligently pursue our client’s interests. We compassionately assist clients in seeking resolutions which are both creative and specially tailored to their family’s unique circumstances through both litigation and alternative dispute resolution methods. Each client faces unique challenges, and we offer legal representation which takes into account those unique challenges.
Divorce
If you have come to our law firm’s website looking for legal assistance with a divorce you are likely going through a time in life which is very difficult and stressful. We are here to help. Our family law attorney has focused on divorce in Maryland for over 25 years. With the October 2023 changes in divorce law, a resolution can occur much faster and smoother. Maryland requires a 6-month separation period before granting a divorce, except the irreconcilable differences or mutual consent grounds which do not require a separation period. We can walk you through the divorce process step by step.
Marital Separation Agreements
Marital separation agreements are an alternative to litigated divorce proceedings. Our family law attorneys can negotiate and draft an agreement that allows all parties to resolve issues such as child custody/visitation, support, and property division.
Division of Marital Property
The goal in any division of property case is to find a fair solution that suits both parties. Maryland is an equitable distribution state and distribution is not always 50-50. Here at SmollonLaw, we will help to ensure that you get all assets you are entitled to in your divorce proceedings.
Child Custody, Visitation and Support
Child custody and access (formerly known as visitation) are often the most challenging cases in family law. Because of their emotional nature, we will go to great lengths to guide parents through each facet of child custody, child access, and support. Our legal experts can help you negotiate an agreement for child custody, access, and support that is best for everyone involved whether that agreement establishes or modifies child custody and access. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to resolve the issues by agreement. If that happens, we can be your fierce advocate in child custody, child access, and support litigation.
Alimony
The issue of alimony can lead to some of the most contentious arguments both during the divorce process and in the years following the divorce. Life happens and circumstances change over the years following a divorce creating circumstances where alimony can be modified or even terminated. When addressing alimony the Judge must take into account many more factors than solely a disparity in income. If you believe you are entitled to the establishment of alimony, a modification of alimony, or a termination of alimony contact SmollonLaw for help in resolving the issue.
Modifications and Enforcement
Circumstances change during the years following a divorce and the establishment of child custody, child access, child support, and alimony. When a material change in circumstances occurs parents sometimes need to re-examine and adjust custody, child access, child support, and alimony through agreement or litigation. It is also not uncommon for one party to require legal assistance in enforcing an order or agreement for child custody, child access, child support, alimony, and the disposition of marital property. Whether you are seeking modification or enforcement of an existing court order or agreement, we have the dedication and experience needed to help.
Military Family Law
Family law disputes involving members of our military pose some unique issues and concerns. Located in Annapolis, Maryland, near the United States Naval Academy and in the heart of the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area along with numerous military installations we are experienced and trained to handle military family law disputes.
Domestic Partnerships
Recently Maryland Law began recognizing domestic partnerships. In today’s world, some clients want the safety and security which often comes with marriage without being married. Domestic Partnership Agreements can offer just that. When paired with Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Advanced Directives parties can create a very marriage-like situation without being married. At SmollonLaw we can assist in the creation of a domestic partnership.
Same-Sex Rights
The United States Supreme Court’s 2015 decision in Obergefell v. Hodges guarantees same-sex couples the right to federal and state recognition of their marriages. However, many couples have questions and concerns regarding adoption, divorce proceedings, and existing domestic partnerships. Our family law attorneys can help you understand and assert your legal same-sex family rights under both Maryland and federal laws.
Contact our expert attorneys to schedule a free case evaluation.
With years of dedicated legal experience and recognition from esteemed industry organizations, we are committed to delivering exceptional representation and results for our clients.
