• Annapolis
  • 410-268-2488

Family Law Attorneys

Firm Overview

Meet Our Attorneys

We are a family law firm in Annapolis, Maryland. We
represent clients throughout the State of Maryland in a wide range of family law matters, including divorce, prenuptial agreements, child custody, child access, child support, alimony, adoptions, guardianships, name changes, and domestic partnerships.


In addition, we provide representation regarding the
preparation of wills, powers of attorney, and advanced directives.
No matter your situation we are eager to speak with you, assess
your legal needs, and lay out the steps necessary to proceed and
answer any of your questions. Above all, we remain accessible to
you throughout the entire process.

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At SmollonLaw you trust and rely on us to:

  • Communicate with you, keeping you up to date with the progress of your case;
  • Work hard on your case no matter how big or how small to get results you and your family deserve;
  • Charge reasonable fees, bill you fairly, and provide you with a copy of your bill on a regular basis throughout the entire process.

As family law attorneys our clients often tell us that we are great listeners. The ability to truly listen to the needs of our clients is one of the most important things we do in order to specially tailor a path toward a resolution. We approach each situation with respect and empathy for our client and an appreciation for his or her unique circumstances.

Every family law matter is unique because every case involves different types of people, emotions, circumstances, and economic concerns. Solving your family law issue requires an intimate knowledge and understanding of your and your family dynamic.

communication is key

personal service

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Every family law matter is unique because every case involves different types of people, emotions, circumstances, and economic concerns. Solving your family law issue requires an intimate knowledge and understanding of your and your family dynamic.

Know Your Rights

We make sure you understand your rights!

Experienced Attorneys

I have over 25 years of experience winning cases!

Dedicated to helping families

Everyone deserves skilled legal representation!

Learn About Maryland Family Law

Frequently Asked Questions

important things you should know

Questions And Answers

Until October 2023, Maryland law required a one-year separation period for all couples seeking divorce except in cases of domestic violence or adultery. Now Maryland law recognizes only three grounds for divorce: irreconcilable differences, mutual consent, and 6-month separation. Unlike the grounds of 6-month separation, irreconcilable differences and mutual consent do not require a separation before filing for divorce. When a separation is required the clock starts the day that the parties cease to live together.

Technically speaking, no. You can choose to represent yourself in your divorce proceedings, but it’s not advisable. Divorce proceedings are complex and pleadings can be overwhelming. An attorney can ensure that your rights are protected through the proceedings, as well as the best interests of your children.

As of October 2023 there are only three grounds for divorce in Maryland: irreconcilable differences, mutual consent, and 6-month separation. Unlike the grounds of 6-month separation, irreconcilable differences and mutual consent do not require a separation before filing for divorce. This a substantial departure from previous Maryland law which included adultery, domestic
violence, and desertion as grounds for divorce. However, while those grounds no longer exist, the court can still consider adulterous behavior on the part of a spouse, domestic violence and
desertion when determining whether or not to award alimony and the disposition of marital property.

There are two types of spousal support granted by the Court. The first is “rehabilitative alimony.” This alimony is intended to be short term, supporting the recipient spouse long enough for them to receive the training they need to get back into the workforce and support themselves. The second type of spousal support is “indefinite alimony,” which tends to be awarded to spouses who are unable to work due to age, disability, or illness (physical or mental). Indefinite alimony is long-term. The Judge has a variety of factors to consider before granting alimony, so a disparity in income does not automatically mean you are entitled to alimony.
In an ideal proceeding, the parties are able to agree on a custody arrangement that suits both parties and the best interest of the child or children. However, that’s not always the case. When both parents love the children so much, child custody and visitation issues can be emotional and contentious. If the parties are unable to come to an agreement, the Judge will determine custody based on “the best interest of the child.” The best interest of the child depends on a variety of factors, such as: fitness of each parent, financial and employment considerations, and the closeness of the parents’ homes to one another and the child’s school.

Child support is determined based on the Maryland Child Support Guidelines.

Child support is Court ordered. If the non-custodial parent fails to pay child support, the custodial parent can pursue legal action. Action the custodial parent can pursue in Maryland includes: contempt of court, wage garnishment, and determination of arrears.

Yes. If both parties want to forego the cost and hostility involved in traditional divorce litigation, they can agree on mediation or alternative dispute resolution (ADR). In this case, both parties agree to work toward an amicable solution that’s best for everyone. The parties can work with a neutral third party mediator, and their attorneys have the role of advising them about the law and potentially hiring specialists to resolve tricky issues like child custody and division of property. Whatever information is shared in a mediation cannot be used against either of the parties if the case is litigated in Court.

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