Fulton, MD Child Custody Attorneys

Skilled Custody Lawyers Representing Parents in Fulton, Maryland

Sorting out a child custody dispute can be emotionally exhausting and full of legal complications. During this process, it can be helpful to have someone you can rely on for qualified legal advice and representation. A Fulton child custody attorney can advocate for your parental rights and work toward a solution in your child's best interests.

At Zide Law Group, LLC, we take child custody disputes seriously. Our team of lawyers is here to support you throughout your case, making sure that you know the legal options available to you. With over 50 years of combined experience, our firm has the skills and knowledge to stand up for you in a court of family law.

Do I Have Custody Rights Over My Child?

In Maryland, mothers and fathers have equal rights to child custody. When parents get divorced, neither parent is given special preference by the court. Instead, the judge will divide up custody based on the child's best interests. The courts may consider multiple factors to determine what is best for the child, such as:

• Each parent's willingness to support the child's relationship with the other parent
• The ability of each parent to provide for the child's needs, including any past findings of abuse and domestic violence
• The child's wishes regarding custody, with greater consideration given to older children and teenagers
• The distance between the parents' homes
• Whether one parent has served as a child's primary caregiver

If one parent poses a clear threat to the child's safety, the court may consider awarding the other parent with sole custody rights. Above all else, family law courts prioritize the child's well-being in the long term over the preference of parents. At Zide Law Group, LLC, we can advocate for your child's best interests as we advocate for your right to maintain an active role in your child's life.

How Are Custody Disputes Settled?

Many custody disputes are settled outside of court, and in many cases, it may be the better option compared to going to court. Litigation can get intense when children are involved, and the fees can quickly pile up on both you and your co-parent.

As skilled negotiators, our attorneys can help you pursue more amicable ways to resolve a custody dispute, such as mediation with an unbiased third party. We can help you draft a sensible parenting plan with your co-parent outside of court, taking the whole family's needs into account so that your child can grow up in a stable environment.

Sometimes, going to court is necessary. At Zide Law Group, LLC, our attorneys are prepared to enter into litigation on your behalf.

Will I Have to Pay Child Support?

After a divorce, you may be responsible for paying child support if you are not the primary caretaker of your child throughout the year. The amount you pay in child support will depend on the number of children you share with your co-parent, as well as your combined monthly income with your spouse.

Even if you share 50/50 custody of your child with your co-parent, you might still be ordered to cover child support if you take home a higher income. If you suddenly become unable to pay child support, our attorneys can help you petition the court to potentially have the court order modified until you get back on your feet.

Contact a Fulton, MD Child Custody Lawyer

Resolving a child custody dispute can be difficult, but you do not have to figure it out by yourself. At Zide Law Group, LLC, our Fulton family law attorneys can advocate for your parental rights. Call our offices at 410-760-9433 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation today.