Exceptions to Magistrates

Maryland Family Law Appeals Lawyer for Exceptions to Magistrates

Protecting Your Rights When a Magistrate’s Recommendation Is Unfair or Incorrect

In Maryland family law cases, magistrates often conduct hearings and issue recommendations to the circuit court on matters like custody, child support, and alimony. However, their findings are not final. If you believe a magistrate made a mistake in applying the law or evaluating the evidence, you have the right to file exceptions before a judge enters a final order. At The Burton Firm, our experienced Maryland family law appeals lawyer helps clients file timely, well-reasoned exceptions to protect their rights and achieve a fair result.

We represent clients throughout Southern Maryland, including Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, Howard County, Charles County, and Calvert County in post-hearing challenges involving custody, visitation, alimony, and support.

What Are Exceptions to a Magistrate’s Recommendation?

When a family law magistrate hears a case, they prepare a report that includes factual findings and recommendations for how the court should rule. Before the court adopts those recommendations, either party may file “exceptions” — written objections that ask a circuit court judge to review the magistrate’s report for legal or factual errors.

Exceptions provide an important safeguard to ensure that the final judgment reflects accurate findings, correct legal standards, and fairness to both parties.

When and How to File Exceptions in Maryland

Under Maryland law, you generally have ten days after the magistrate’s recommendations are issued to file written exceptions with the circuit court. These objections must specify the parts of the report you are challenging and clearly explain the legal or factual basis for your disagreement.

Our firm assists clients with every step of the process, including:

• Reviewing the magistrate’s findings and transcript for potential errors
• Drafting detailed written exceptions that comply with Maryland procedural rules
• Filing and serving all necessary documents within strict deadlines
• Presenting oral arguments before the judge during the exceptions hearing

Filing properly structured exceptions is essential. Missing the deadline or failing to raise specific issues can result in the magistrate’s recommendations being adopted without change. The Burton Firm ensures that all filings are timely, precise, and persuasive.

Common Grounds for Filing Exceptions

Clients may file exceptions for a variety of reasons, including:

• Misapplication of Maryland family law
• Errors in calculating child support or alimony
• Improper evaluation of custody or visitation evidence
• Failure to consider relevant testimony or documents
• Procedural or due process errors during the hearing

Our firm reviews each case thoroughly to identify specific errors and build a strong record for judicial review or potential appeal.

After the Exceptions Hearing

Once exceptions are filed, the circuit court judge will review the magistrate’s recommendations and the arguments from both sides. The judge may adopt, modify, or reject the recommendations in whole or in part. If you disagree with the judge’s final ruling, you may have the option to pursue a formal appeal to the Maryland appellate courts or an in banc review.

Speak with a Maryland Family Law Appeals Lawyer Today

If you disagree with a magistrate’s recommendation in your family law case, time is critical. Contact The Burton Firm today to discuss your options. Call (301) 420-5540 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation. You can also request a consultation directly through our website.