We recognize that family issues are highly sensitive and private matters. When appropriate, we work with our clients to amicably resolve their family disputes through settlement discussions and/or mediation. All matters don’t require litigation. However, when litigation is necessary, trust us to provide the compassion and legal skill-set needed to advocate on your behalf and in your best interest. 

Allow the Attorneys at Carter Law to serve you in the following areas:

Divorce

Maryland recognizes two types of Divorce: Absolute Divorce and Limited Divorce. A party may be awarded a divorce if residency requirements are met,  and the party  proves the existence of one or more grounds for divorce.

• Grounds for Absolute Divorce

  • Adultery

  • Cruelty of Treatment and Excessively Vicious Conduct

    • A divorce may be granted for cruel treatment or excessively vicious conduct toward a spouse or the minor child(ren) of the complaining spouse.

  • Desertion

    • A divorce may be granted for the intentional abandonment by a spouse for a period of 12- months, without interruption. 

  • Insanity 

    • A divorce may be granted if at least one spouse has resided in Maryland for two or more years prior to filing for divorce, the insane spouse is confined to a hospital, mental facility, or the like for a minimum of three years, and two physicians testify that the insane spouse cannot be cured and will not recover.   

  • Mutual Consent (no fault divorce) 

    • A divorce may be granted if the parties sign a settlement agreement resolving all custodial and visitation issues pertaining to the minor children, support for the minor children, alimony, and all other financial and property issues. 

  • Separation (no fault divorce) 

    • A divorce may be granted if the parties live separate and apart, without cohabitation, for a minimum of twelve consecutive months prior to filing for divorce.

• Grounds for Limited Divorce (a legal separation)

  • Separation

  • Desertion 

  • Cruelty of Treatment and Excessively Vicious Conduct

Alternatively, sometimes, parties only need counsel to consult on their already agreed upon terms, or to put their terms in writing. If you need assistance with Parenting Plans or Settlement Agreements, call one of our family law attorneys for guidance.

Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements

• Prenuptial (Premarital) Agreements are contracts that allow parties intending to marry to predetermine alimony, as well as what rights they will have in their property, jointly and individually owned, including real estate and personal property, should their marriage end by death or divorce. 

• Postnuptial Agreements are the same as Prenuptial Agreement, but executed after marriage.

 *Note: We recommend completing these agreements as part of an overall Estate Plan.

Disputes Revolving Around Children

• Child Custody Disputes

• Grandparent’s Visitation Rights

• Guardianship of a Minor