Author Archives: Amos Whitney
When should I get my QDRO prepared?
When should I get my QDRO prepared? “Do I need to get my QDRO done immediately after my divorce?” This is a question we hear all the time. Sometimes we hear “Can I wait?” After a divorce, you’re probably not excited about putting in the time, money, and effort it takes to prepare a… Read More »
Third-Party Custody: Who Qualifies as a De Facto Parent?
Parents have a constitutional right to parent their children under the due process clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. Under very limited circumstances, the court can award custody to a third party (a non-biological or non-adoptive parent), even over the objection the parents. Maryland Courts have developed three “avenues” that a third-party can take to… Read More »
Safeguarding Your Future: The Importance of Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Healthcare Directives
Life is unpredictable, and it’s crucial to plan for the unexpected. One way to protect your interests and ensure your wishes are honored is by establishing legal documents such as wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. While these topics may seem daunting, understanding their significance is essential for securing your future and offering… Read More »
Major Changes to Divorce Law in Maryland
For years, Maryland has been one of the few States that did not offer a “no fault” ground for divorce. Instead, those individuals that filed for divorce had to choose between the following reasons for wanting that divorce: adultery (cheating/infidelity), desertion, incarceration, one year separation, insanity, cruelty of treatment to a spouse or child,… Read More »
Is “NESTING” the right solution for your family?
Consider the following 4 factors in making this very important determination. What is Nesting: Nesting is a transitional living arrangement used by families going through separation and/or divorce wherein the children remain in the family home and the parents transition in and out of the family home in accordance with a predetermined schedule. During… Read More »
Saint Patrick’s Day History and Irish Bread for Thought
Saint Patrick’s Day History and Irish Bread for Thought St. Patty’s Day might be one of the most celebrated spring holiday outside of Easter. This is the best time to break out all the green clothing you have in your closet including hats, gloves, shoes, jewelry, socks and the list goes on! If you’re… Read More »
An Interview with a Weinberg & Schwartz Paralegal
We sat down with Heather Harriss, one of the paralegals here at Weinberg & Schwartz, LLC, and asked a few questions. Heather, tell us how you came to join the team at W&S? I worked previously for one of our associate attorneys who joined the Weinberg & Schwartz team before I did. The associate… Read More »
Steps in a Contested Divorce/Custody Case in Maryland
One of the questions I get asked most in a divorce or custody consult is what is the court “process” like if their cases is contested. Generally, potential clients are surprised to learn how long a contested case could take and how much happens before they actually “get their day in court.” First, it… Read More »
What is Contempt?
Civil constructive contempt in the context of family law in Maryland refers to a situation where a party violates a court order or disregards a judicial process related to a family law matter. This type of contempt can occur in various family law situations, such as divorce, child custody, and support cases. When a… Read More »
Back to School . . . . But Where?
Let’s say you were fortunate enough to resolve the custody and access of your young child following a divorce. Perhaps, like many couples, you agreed to an equally shared physical custody and decided to have joint legal custody. You and your ex have been getting along great and co-parenting together. You only live a… Read More »
