Laurel, MD Divorce Lawyer

Skilled Divorce Attorney Representing Residents of Laurel, Maryland

Even in the most amicable cases, a divorce can be difficult to get through. During the legal proceedings, you and your spouse may run into disagreements concerning the division of property and other sensitive issues, which can prevent you from reaching a timely settlement. To help the process go as smoothly as possible, you could consider seeking representation from a Laurel, MD divorce attorney.

Finding the right attorney for your divorce is critical for protecting your own interests. With more than 20 years of experience, you can trust that Attorney David Marquardt at DM Family Law is qualified to handle your divorce concerns. We are devoted to providing our clients with honest counsel and strong representation from the beginning of the legal proceedings to the end.

Child Custody Concerns in Maryland Divorces

When parents divorce, making arrangements for child custody may be one of their foremost concerns. Every family presents differently, and the amount of conflict in the divorce may impact the custody proceedings. For example, in an amicable divorce, the parents may be able to sort out custody relatively quickly through mediation. But in a contested divorce, child custody may have to be handled through litigation.

Regardless of the amount of conflict between the parents, all child custody cases in Maryland are centered around the child's best interests. A judge can reject a proposed parenting plan that jeopardizes the child's health and well-being. At DM Family Law, we can work with you to help you reach a custody agreement that puts your child's needs first while also respecting your own needs.

How Is Asset Division Handled in Maryland?

Divorcing couples in Maryland have the freedom to decide how to divide up their shared property. In many cases, spouses are able to reach a property settlement outside of court that satisfies both parties. At DM Family Law, we can negotiate with your spouse and their attorney to reach a fair agreement. During the process of asset division, you will have to account for and split up different kinds of property, such as real estate, investments, vehicles, furniture, and more. You must also account for your debts, such as credit card payments or mortgages.

Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements can also include terms about asset division in the event of a divorce. At DM Family Law, we can review a signed agreement to make sure that it is legally enforceable, and if needed, we can help you enforce or challenge the agreement in court. If you cannot reach a property settlement with your spouse, the courts will divide up your property in an equitable manner.

Am I Entitled to Alimony in a Divorce?

Alimony is a form of court-ordered financial support that is paid by one spouse to another during or after a divorce. You can only request alimony while the divorce proceedings are still ongoing, so it is critical that you petition for it before the final divorce decree. If a judge determines that alimony is appropriate based on your financial situation, you may be awarded with:

• Alimony Pendente Lite: This kind of alimony is awarded during the divorce proceedings and terminates with the final decree.
• Rehabilitative Alimony: This kind of alimony can last until the recipient spouse becomes financially independent.
• Indefinite Alimony: This kind of alimony is awarded without a fixed end point, typically in cases where the spouse would struggle to find work after a divorce.

Contact a Laurel, MD Divorce Attorney Today

If you need help getting through your divorce, our Laurel, Maryland divorce lawyer can provide you with superb advocacy and legal advice. To schedule a free consultation with DM Family Law, call us at 443-545-8100 or contact our Laurel, Maryland divorce lawyer.