Towson Divorce Lawyer
When facing the complexities of divorce proceedings in Maryland, choosing the right Towson divorce lawyer can make all the difference in protecting your interests and securing a fair resolution. At Weinberg & Schwartz, L.L.C., our experienced family law attorneys have been practicing exclusively in Maryland family law since 1995, providing dedicated representation to clients throughout the greater Baltimore area, including Towson and Baltimore County.
Our firm’s family-centered legal approach focuses on obtaining equitable and fair resolutions for each client’s individual issues and concerns. As highly experienced trial attorneys, we are not afraid to take your case to trial when necessary to achieve the results you deserve. Our team understands that divorce is one of life’s most challenging experiences, and we are committed to guiding you through this difficult time with compassion, expertise, and unwavering advocacy.
Comprehensive Divorce Legal Services
Divorce proceedings involve numerous complex legal issues that require careful attention and skilled representation. Our attorneys, including Jolie Weinberg, Amos Whitney, Lisa Pryor, Theodore Warner, Ethan Dellinger, and Rachel Breidenbach, bring decades of combined experience to every case. We handle all aspects of divorce proceedings, from initial filing through final decree, ensuring that our clients understand their rights and options at every step.
Property division represents one of the most contentious aspects of many divorce cases. Maryland follows the principle of equitable distribution, which means that marital property must be divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. Our divorce attorneys work diligently to identify, value, and protect your marital assets, including real estate, retirement accounts, business interests, and personal property. We collaborate with financial experts and appraisers when necessary to ensure accurate valuations and fair distributions.
Spousal support, also known as alimony, is another critical consideration in many divorce cases. Our team evaluates factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, contributions to the marriage, and standard of living to advocate for appropriate support arrangements. Whether seeking or defending against alimony claims, we provide strategic counsel tailored to your specific circumstances.
Child Custody and Support Matters
When children are involved in divorce proceedings, their best interests remain the court’s primary concern. Our family law attorneys understand the emotional stakes involved in custody disputes and work tirelessly to protect parent-child relationships while advocating for arrangements that serve the children’s needs. We handle both physical custody, which determines where children will live, and legal custody, which governs decision-making authority regarding education, healthcare, and other important matters.
Child support calculations in Maryland follow specific guidelines based on both parents’ incomes and the amount of time children spend with each parent. Our attorneys ensure accurate income calculations and appropriate support determinations, whether you are seeking support or defending against excessive claims. We also handle modifications of existing custody and support orders when circumstances change significantly.
Relocation cases present unique challenges when one parent wishes to move with the children. Our experienced team understands the legal standards governing relocation requests and provides skilled representation whether you are seeking permission to relocate or opposing a proposed move that could impact your relationship with your children.
Alternative Dispute Resolution Options
While our attorneys are skilled trial advocates, we recognize that not every divorce case requires courtroom litigation. Many clients benefit from alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation and collaborative divorce. These approaches can reduce costs, minimize conflict, and provide families with greater control over the outcome of their cases.
Mediation involves working with a neutral third party to facilitate negotiations between spouses. Our attorneys can represent you during mediation sessions, ensuring that any agreements reached protect your interests and comply with Maryland law. For couples committed to avoiding litigation, collaborative divorce offers a team-based approach involving attorneys, financial professionals, and other specialists working together to reach mutually acceptable resolutions.
Even when cases are resolved through alternative methods, having experienced legal counsel remains essential. Our divorce lawyers ensure that all agreements are properly drafted, legally enforceable, and address all necessary issues to prevent future disputes.
Navigating the Maryland Court System
Divorce cases in the Towson area are typically filed in the Circuit Court for Baltimore County, located at 401 Bosley Avenue in Towson. Our attorneys are thoroughly familiar with local court procedures, filing requirements, and the preferences of local judges. This familiarity allows us to provide clients with realistic expectations and strategic advice tailored to the local legal environment.
Maryland requires a grounds-based approach to divorce, meaning that specific reasons must be established for ending the marriage. We help clients understand the differences between fault-based and no-fault grounds, including mutual consent divorce, separation-based divorce, and fault-based grounds such as adultery or cruel treatment. The choice of grounds can impact various aspects of the case, including property division and spousal support.
Our team handles all aspects of the divorce process, from initial pleadings through discovery, negotiations, and trial if necessary. We ensure that all deadlines are met, all required documentation is properly prepared, and our clients are fully prepared for any court appearances or depositions.
Towson Divorce FAQs
How long does a divorce take in Maryland?
The timeline for divorce in Maryland varies depending on the grounds for divorce and whether the case is contested. Mutual consent divorces can be finalized relatively quickly, often within a few months, while contested cases involving complex property division or custody disputes may take a year or more. Separation-based divorces require a waiting period of either six months or one year, depending on whether children are involved and whether both parties agree.
What is the difference between limited divorce and absolute divorce?
Maryland recognizes two types of divorce: limited divorce and absolute divorce. A limited divorce is similar to a legal separation and does not end the marriage, but it can address issues such as custody, support, and use of the marital home. An absolute divorce completely terminates the marriage and allows both parties to remarry. Most people seeking divorce want an absolute divorce to fully end their marital relationship.
How is property divided in Maryland divorce cases?
Maryland follows the principle of equitable distribution for marital property. This means that property acquired during the marriage is divided fairly between the spouses, though not necessarily equally. The court considers factors such as each spouse’s contributions to the marriage, the length of the marriage, each party’s financial circumstances, and the reason for the divorce when making property distribution decisions.
Can divorce agreements be modified after they are finalized?
Some aspects of divorce agreements can be modified if there has been a material change in circumstances. Child custody and support arrangements are typically modifiable when it serves the children’s best interests. Spousal support may also be modifiable depending on the terms of the original agreement. However, property division is generally final and cannot be modified except in rare circumstances involving fraud or other exceptional situations.
Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce?
While Maryland allows people to represent themselves in divorce proceedings, having legal counsel is highly recommended even in uncontested cases. A divorce attorney can ensure that all necessary issues are addressed, that agreements are properly drafted and legally enforceable, and that your rights are protected throughout the process. Even seemingly simple cases can involve complex legal issues that benefit from professional guidance.
Serving Throughout Towson
- Lutherville
- Timonium
- Cockeysville
- Hunt Valley
- Pikesville
- Owings Mills
- Reisterstown
- Randallstown
- Catonsville
- Ellicott City
Contact a Towson Divorce Attorney Today
Divorce represents a significant life transition that requires skilled legal guidance to protect your interests and secure your future. At Weinberg & Schwartz, L.L.C., our experienced family law team is committed to providing the knowledgeable, compassionate representation you need during this challenging time. With our four-time recognition as “Best of” Howard County for Family Law and nearly three decades of exclusive family law practice, we have the experience and dedication necessary to achieve favorable outcomes for our clients. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with a skilled divorce attorney who will fight for your rights and help you move forward with confidence.
