If you are dealing with a divorce, child custody dispute, domestic violence case, or any other family law matter, you have a lot at stake. You need advice and support from a team of sophisticated lawyers with the knowledge and skill to represent you favorably and obtain a desirable result. At Weinberg & Schwartz, L.L.C., you’ll get that help from some of the most experienced Columbia & Ellicott City family & divorce lawyers around. We are one of the most-experienced family law firms in the state, and one of the first to focus exclusively on family law.
Whatever your Maryland family law needs, we’ve got you covered. We take a team approach to every matter, making sure you have the right attorneys working on your case, with the assistance of outside professionals as appropriate. Clients of the firm also appreciate the service they receive from our staff, who handle their needs professionally and with sympathy, caring and emotional support.
From a simple, uncontested divorce to the most high-conflict, high-value or complex litigation, Weinberg & Schwartz, L.L.C., applies the right set of skills and know-how to resolve your case efficiently and effectively. Our attorneys are highly experienced in all forms of family law dispute resolution in Maryland, including:
A Statewide Maryland Family Law Practice With Local Howard County Insight
Family law matters are some of the most personal and consequential legal issues you will ever face. Whether you are navigating divorce, child custody, domestic violence, or long-term planning for your family’s future, the outcome can affect your finances, your children, and your peace of mind for years to come. At Weinberg & Schwartz, L.L.C., clients receive guidance from experienced Columbia and Ellicott City family and divorce lawyers who focus exclusively on Maryland family law.
Based in Howard County and serving clients throughout Maryland, our firm has built a reputation for handling complex, emotionally charged family law matters with skill, discretion, and care. From negotiated resolutions to high-conflict litigation, we tailor our strategy to the needs of each client and the realities of Maryland family courts.
While our offices are located in Columbia, our attorneys represent individuals and families across Maryland, including Ellicott City, Baltimore County, Anne Arundel County, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, and beyond. This statewide reach allows us to handle cases that involve multiple jurisdictions while maintaining deep familiarity with Howard County judges, court procedures, and local expectations.
Our Columbia and Ellicott City family lawyers understand that no two families are alike. We take the time to learn your goals, concerns, and priorities so we can provide realistic advice and pursue outcomes that protect what matters most to you.
Divorce Representation Throughout Maryland
Divorce in Maryland can involve far more than simply ending a marriage. Issues such as child custody, child support, alimony, property division, and retirement accounts often require careful analysis and strategic planning.
Our Columbia divorce lawyers represent clients seeking both limited and absolute divorces. We handle everything from separation agreements and amicable uncontested divorces to high-conflict litigation involving business interests, retirement orders, and disputed custody arrangements. We also assist clients after divorce with modifications, enforcement actions, and contempt proceedings when court orders are not being followed.
Child Custody and Visitation in Howard County and Beyond
Child custody and visitation disputes are among the most sensitive matters in family law. Maryland courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child, considering a wide range of factors that can significantly affect parenting arrangements.
Our family lawyers help parents pursue custody and visitation arrangements that protect their children’s stability and well-being. We represent clients in sole and joint custody matters, negotiate parenting plans, and litigate contested custody cases when necessary. We also handle modifications when circumstances change and enforcement actions when custody or visitation orders are violated.
Child Support and Financial Support Matters
Child support in Maryland is governed by statutory guidelines, but the application of those guidelines can become complicated depending on income sources, shared custody arrangements, and special expenses.
Our attorneys assist clients with establishing, modifying, and enforcing child support orders throughout Maryland. We work to ensure that support calculations are accurate and fair while advocating for outcomes that serve the best interests of the child.
Alimony, Property Division, and Retirement Orders
Financial issues are often at the heart of divorce litigation. Maryland law allows for alimony in appropriate cases and requires equitable, though not necessarily equal, division of marital property.
Our Columbia and Ellicott City divorce lawyers handle cases involving spousal support, complex property division, and the preparation and implementation of retirement orders. We help clients understand their rights and obligations while working to protect their long-term financial security.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements can provide clarity and protection for both spouses, particularly when one or both parties have significant assets, business interests, or children from prior relationships.
Our firm drafts, reviews, and negotiates marital agreements designed to withstand scrutiny under Maryland law. We focus on ensuring that agreements are fair, enforceable, and aligned with our clients’ goals.
Domestic Violence and Protective Orders
Nothing is more important than personal safety. Maryland law provides mechanisms for victims of domestic violence to obtain immediate protection through protective orders.
Our family law attorneys act quickly to help clients seek protection for themselves and their children. We also represent individuals who have been accused of domestic violence in divorce or custody cases, ensuring that their rights are protected and that allegations are addressed fairly.
Mediation, Collaborative Family Law, and Litigation
Not every family law case needs to be resolved in a courtroom. Many clients benefit from alternative dispute resolution methods that offer greater privacy, control, and efficiency.
Our attorneys are experienced in mediation and collaborative family law, helping clients reach workable agreements outside of litigation when appropriate. When negotiation is not possible, we are fully prepared to litigate and present a strong case before a judge.
Adoption and Guardianship Matters
When children need permanent or temporary care due to the absence or incapacity of their parents, adoption and guardianship can provide stability and security.
Our family law firm assists clients throughout Maryland with adoption and guardianship proceedings, guiding families through the legal process while minimizing conflict and delay.
Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Advance Planning
Family law often intersects with estate planning. Without proper planning documents, decisions about medical care, finances, and property distribution may be left to the state.
We help clients create wills, powers of attorney, and advance directives that protect their wishes and reduce uncertainty for loved ones during difficult times.
Serving Families Throughout Howard County and Maryland
From our Columbia office, we proudly serve clients throughout Howard County, including Ellicott City, Clarksville, Fulton, Maple Lawn, and surrounding communities. Our statewide practice also allows us to assist families across Maryland who need experienced, focused family law representation.
Maryland Divorce & Family Law Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between limited and absolute divorce in Maryland?
A limited divorce addresses issues such as custody, support, and use of the marital home without ending the marriage, while an absolute divorce legally dissolves the marriage.
How is child custody decided in Maryland?
Custody decisions are based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as parental fitness, stability, and the child’s needs.
Can child support be modified after it is set?
Yes. Child support may be modified if there is a material change in circumstances, such as a change in income or custody arrangement.
Is alimony guaranteed in a Maryland divorce?
No. Alimony is not automatic and depends on factors such as need, ability to pay, and the length of the marriage.
Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce?
While not legally required, having a lawyer can help ensure that agreements are properly drafted and protect your rights.
How does mediation work in a divorce case?
A neutral mediator helps spouses negotiate agreements on issues like custody and property without a judge deciding the outcome.
Are prenuptial agreements enforceable in Maryland?
Yes, if they are properly drafted, fair, and entered into voluntarily with full disclosure.
What should I do if I need a protective order?
You should seek legal guidance immediately to understand your options and take steps to protect yourself and your children.
Can custody orders be changed later?
Yes. Custody orders can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances affecting the child’s best interests.
Do you handle family law cases outside Howard County?
Yes. We represent clients throughout Maryland while maintaining a strong focus on Columbia and Ellicott City matters.
Call Weinberg & Schwartz, L.L.C., for Family Law and Divorce in Columbia and Howard County
Trust your delicate, sensitive, or highly important family law matters to a local law firm with the knowledge, skills and experience to give you the right advice and representation to meet your needs. Put your case in the hands of one of the most experienced family law firms in the state and one of the few that focuses solely on the areas of divorce and family law. Count on Weinberg & Schwartz, L.L.C. – the family law firm that puts families first. From our offices in Columbia, we serve clients in communities throughout Howard County, Maryland, including Clarksville, Fulton, Maple Lawn, and Ellicott City. Our caring and professional staff is available now to take your call. read less
