Our Domestic Relations Law Practice
Domestic relations matters can be very hard on the parties involved. From the adults, to the children (if children are involved), the entire process can be a strain. But in many instances, how do you really know what to expect? Is divorce really for me?
Does the mother automatically get the kids? He has a new job making more money…how do I get a child support modification?
The above questions are very important and lay the foundations for what will come down the road in these types of cases. As a result, it is very important for the person who is facing domestic relations issues to get good advice regarding their situation.
Domestic relations, often referred to as family law, involves a number of areas that include divorce, separation agreements, child custody disputes, child support, paternity actions, adoptions, and property distribution. Each of these areas requires your attorney to have very specialized knowledge, skill and experience in order to obtain the desired results.
Many times the major issue involves property distribution and/or alimony. In Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia different rules and evidence apply as to what is marital property subject to distribution and what is the solely owned property of either spouse.
The form of ownership, such as a deed to real estate or a title to a vehicle, is not controlling. The efforts and contributions by each spouse during the marriage toward the acquisition of property is a major factor to be analyzed. Pension plans and stock options present significant matters to be evaluated. The current income and future income potential of each spouse has a major effect on whether permanent or rehabilitative alimony is warranted.
An effective method of handling domestic disputes is through The Collaborative Practice. The Collaborative Practice, including Collaborative Law and interdisciplinary Collaborative Divorce, is a new way for you to resolve disputes respectfully — without going to court — while working with trained professionals who are important to all areas of your life.
Regardless of the type of domestic relations problem you may have, we provide an initial free consultation so that we can understand the issues and discuss with you a fair and appropriate fee arrangement. In uncontested matters, such as a mere divorce where there are no children and the other party has no objection, we can establish a fixed fee.
In the more complicated matters, we usually charge on an hourly rate basis. In appropriate cases, we are willing to work out payments over time. Each client is unique and each is accorded a specific and personal evaluation depending on that client’s total circumstances.