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February 20, 2026

Protecting Children During Divorce: A Maryland Attorney’s Approach to High-Conflict Custody Cases


Posted in Blog

Few aspects of divorce are as emotionally charged as child custody disputes, particularly in high-conflict situations. When parents are overwhelmed by fear, anger, or uncertainty, children often feel the impact most deeply. Maryland courts are guided by the “best interest of the child” standard, but court decisions alone cannot always address the emotional realities families face. In many cases, reaching custody agreements outside of the courtroom leads to more stable and lasting outcomes for children and parents alike.

High-conflict custody cases often involve more than legal disagreements. They may include severe communication breakdowns, allegations of misconduct, power imbalances, or long-standing emotional wounds that surface during divorce. When conflict escalates, children can become unintentionally drawn into adult disputes, a situation that research consistently shows can have long-term emotional and psychological effects. Without skilled legal guidance, these cases can quickly spiral, increasing hostility rather than resolving it.

In Maryland, custody determinations consider factors such as parental fitness, stability, communication, and each parent’s ability to support a child’s relationship with the other parent. Navigating these standards requires both legal insight and strategic foresight. A knowledgeable Rockville custody lawyer helps clients understand how courts evaluate custody while working proactively to avoid outcomes that place children in the center of prolonged conflict.

As a trusted Rockville custody law firm, our focus is always on minimizing harm to children while fiercely protecting our clients’ parental rights. We work closely with parents to develop thoughtful parenting plans that promote consistency, structure, and predictability all of which are critical to a child’s sense of security during transition. Whenever possible, we encourage solutions that foster healthy co-parenting and reduce the likelihood of future disputes.

Leadership matters in emotionally volatile cases. Marjorie DiLima and her team bring decades of experience and a calm, steady presence to even the most contentious custody disputes. Her ability to remain grounded under pressure helps de-escalate conflict, refocus discussions on what truly matters, and guide families toward resolution rather than prolonged courtroom battles. Clients often find reassurance in knowing their case is being handled with both strength and restraint.

Even in situations where agreement feels impossible, a strategic approach can shift the dynamic. Through structured negotiation, mediation, or carefully managed litigation when necessary, our firm works to create custody arrangements that are sustainable not just legally enforceable, and livable.

Our goal is not simply to win custody cases. It is to help families move forward with clarity, protection, and a framework that supports children as they grow. For parents facing high-conflict custody disputes in Rockville or Montgomery County, the right legal guidance can make the difference between ongoing turmoil and a healthier path forward.

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Frederick, MD 21701