When dealing with child support, the state of Maryland adopted a guideline measured by the income of the parties involved. The new Maryland law tops off at a combined adjusted annual income of $180,000 per annum or $15,000 per month. Keep in mind, child support will increase depending on the number of children involved. However, just with the old guidelines, the court will have discretion in setting the support level for the parties and individuals.
Establishing paternity is crucial for ensuring a child’s legal rights and access to benefits. In Maryland, paternity is not automatically assigned to fathers, even if their name is on the birth certificate. Establishing paternity provides several advantages, including access to government benefits, health insurance, family health history, citizenship, financial support, and legal rights for the father. If paternity is disputed, DNA testing can be used to prove fatherhood. The Burton Firm in Maryland specializes in family law and can help individuals establish paternity to secure these rights. Contact them for a consultation to discuss your situation and determine the best course of action.
The bond between grandparents and grandchildren is special, but in Maryland, grandparents face significant legal challenges when seeking custody or visitation rights. Maryland law does not give preference to grandparents over other third parties, and there is no legal entitlement for grandparents to have custody or visitation. However, grandparents can petition for reasonable access, but they must prove that the parents are unfit or that extraordinary circumstances exist, such as abuse or neglect. Grandparents can seek court intervention through guardianship, custody, or visitation. The court considers various factors, including the well-being of the child and the circumstances of the parents. If you are a grandparent seeking custody or visitation, it’s crucial to contact an experienced Maryland family law attorney to help you navigate this complex process.
In Maryland, adultery is considered both a civil and criminal offense, though prosecutions are rare. Adultery is defined as voluntary sexual intercourse between a married person and someone of the opposite sex. If a married person engages in sexual relations with a same-sex partner, they may not be guilty of adultery but could be charged with constructive desertion, which is also grounds for divorce. Other grounds for divorce in Maryland include a 12-month separation, imprisonment, incurable insanity, and cruel treatment. While individuals can represent themselves in divorce cases, it is advisable to consult a lawyer to ensure all legal rights and assets are properly addressed. The Burton Firm specializes in family law and can assist with divorce, adultery, and bigamy cases, providing expert guidance and protecting your legal rights.