Child Custody Lawyer Frederick, MD

Working For Your Child’s Best Interests With Our Frederick, MD Child Custody Lawyer

Child custody is one of the most hotly contested issues in a divorce or separation. When a child’s parents don’t live together, Maryland family law courts determine possession and visitation based on the child’s best interests. Often, this means giving each parent as much time with the child as possible. We understand that it’s hard not seeing your child every day, and for many divorcing couples, co-parenting is a struggle. As your Frederick, MD, child custody lawyer, we can help you negotiate an arrangement that works best for your child and your new life as a single parent. We understand what Frederick’s family law judges look for when considering a child’s best interest, and we can help you with your petition to the courts.

If parents cannot agree on a schedule of shared custody, whatever it looks like, or if one parent isn’t following the custody arrangement set by the court, then legal action becomes necessary. You have the right to your own attorney to represent your interests and those of your child. The attorneys at Fait & DiLima, LLP, have decades of combined experience working in the local family law courts and representing families like yours. We listen to your needs and concerns and help develop a child custody arrangement that meets those needs. Call us today for a free consultation.

Taking Action In Contentious Child Custody Disputes

It’s not uncommon to be so angry at your spouse during a divorce that you fail to see them as a good parent. We can help you remain focused and objective as you develop a co-parenting relationship, including setting up strict legal protections and finding neutral ways to communicate and exchange the child.

Many custody concerns can be settled out of court. Our attorneys can represent you in mediation or other negotiations, helping you develop a workable shared custody arrangement. Or, if you need to have your current custody arrangement modified, we can help re-negotiate that on your behalf. Your goals are our goals, and we help you come to a workable compromise with the child’s other parent. We can also communicate with the other parent for you if the relationship between the two has severely deteriorated.

Child Visitation And Access After A Divorce

Child custody agreements don’t have to be permanent. If the child’s other parent fails to abide by the custody schedule set by the court, we can petition for a post-judgement modification of child custody and support. Or, if your living situation changes, such as one parent moving away or changing their work schedule, we can help you arrange a different schedule that is still in the best interests of your child.

In some cases, one parent may not have a suitable living environment for the child. If you worry that your child is being neglected or is unsafe while in the custody of their other parent, we can help you take the legal action necessary to protect your child. Our legal team can gather evidence proving the neglect or abuse or evidence that the other parent is abusing alcohol or drugs. Our advice can help you make smart choices for your child, and we guide you through this difficult time.

At Fait & DiLima, LLP, we want to ensure that you and your child spend as much time together as possible and that your child is safe and cared for. If you are struggling with visitation and access issues, please contact our Frederick child custody lawyer today for a free consultation.

Pursuing Custody As A Third-Party Or De Facto Parent

At our law firm, we’ve seen firsthand how challenging it can be for third-party advocates or de facto parents to pursue custody. When you’ve stepped in as a caregiver and taken on the responsibilities of a parent, it’s not easy to face the uncertainty of whether your relationship with the child will be recognized legally. However, the law does provide opportunities for third parties and de facto parents to seek custody when it is in the child’s best interest.

If you’re a third-party or de facto parent considering custody, our Frederick, MD child custody lawyer can help you understand your rights and the steps you can take to strengthen your case.

Defining Third-Party And De Facto Parents

A third-party parent is anyone who is not the biological parent but has taken on the role of the child’s primary caregiver. This might include grandparents, aunts, uncles, or close family friends who have stepped in to care for the child when biological parents are unable to do so.

A de facto parent, on the other hand, is typically someone who has established a long-term, significant relationship with the child, like a stepparent or a partner of a biological parent. Even though they may not have a legal or biological connection to the child, their role in the child’s life is often similar to that of a biological parent.

Establishing Your Legal Standing

When pursuing custody, the first thing you need to do is establish your legal standing. The court won’t automatically assume that third-party or de facto parents have custody rights, so you need to prove that you’ve been an important and consistent part of the child’s life. This means showing evidence of your involvement in the child’s care, education, health, and overall upbringing.

To prepare for your child custody case you should gather documentation such as school records, medical records, and any other evidence that shows you’ve been responsible for the child’s day-to-day needs. As a de facto parent, you’ll need to demonstrate that you’ve developed a strong, parental bond with the child and that you’ve been a consistent presence in their life.

The Best Interest Of The Child

When it comes to custody, the court’s main concern is always the best interest of the child. This means the court will look at factors like:

• The stability and safety of the child’s current living situation
• The relationship between you and the child
• The child’s emotional and physical well-being
• The ability of the parent or third party to meet the child’s needs
• The child’s wishes, particularly if they’re old enough to express a preference

Your eligibility as a caregiver will be evaluated in light of these factors. For example, if you have been the primary guardian for a significant period and have provided the child with a stable, supportive environment, the court may consider granting you custody.

What To Expect During The Legal Process

If you’re seeking custody as a third-party or de facto parent, the first step is to consult with our Frederick child custody lawyer to assess your case and understand the legal process. Next, gather evidence that demonstrates your relationship with the child, such as records, photos, and statements from those who can speak to your involvement. Then, our legal team will file a custody petition with the court, outlining your relationship with the child and why your legal guardianship is in their best interest. Finally, court hearings will be scheduled where both you and the biological parents will present your cases, and the court will determine the best custody arrangement based on the evidence.

The court will focus on the child’s well-being, and if you can prove that your relationship with the child is stable, loving, and beneficial, you have a solid case. It’s important to stay patient and focused throughout the process, and rely on our lawyer to guide you through the legal steps.

Securing A Stable Future For The Child

Pursuing custody as a third-party or de facto parent can be a difficult journey, but it’s one that is possible with the right approach. If you’ve been a primary caregiver for a child and believe that you are the best option for their future, our Frederick child custody lawyer may be able to help. At Fait & DiLima, LLP, we’ve supported many clients in similar situations and have over 120 years of collective experience in family law. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn more about your options for seeking custody. Call now to schedule a free consultation.

What Happens If A Parent Violates A Custody Order

Child custody orders are meant to protect the best interests of the child while providing both parents with clear rights and responsibilities. When one parent violates that order, the situation can quickly become stressful and confusing. Whether the violation is intentional or not, it’s important for us to understand the legal consequences and what steps we can take to address the issue. A Frederick child custody lawyer can also be utilized for assistance. 

The Court May Enforce The Existing Order

If a parent fails to follow the custody arrangement—such as not returning the child on time, denying scheduled visits, or making decisions without legal authority—the other parent can file a motion with the court. This motion asks the judge to enforce the existing order. In Frederick, the court will review the facts and may issue new instructions to get both parties back in compliance.

The goal is not just to punish the parent who violated the order but to restore the schedule and keep the child’s routine consistent. A qualified Frederick child custody lawyer can help us file the proper paperwork and present our concerns in a clear, legal manner.

The Violating Parent Could Face Legal Consequences

When a parent repeatedly or knowingly disobeys a court order, there may be legal consequences. These can include fines, make-up parenting time, or in some cases, a temporary or permanent change in custody. Courts take custody violations seriously, especially when the child’s safety or emotional well-being is affected.

If a violation puts the child at risk—for example, if a parent takes the child out of state without permission—the court could take emergency action. In these situations, it’s important that we act quickly and document everything related to the incident.

Contempt Of Court May Be Filed

When a custody order is violated, the court may find the parent in contempt. This legal finding means the parent disobeyed a direct court order and can lead to additional penalties. These may include attorney’s fees, community service, or even jail time in severe cases.

To pursue contempt charges, we need to prove that the order was clear, the other parent understood it, and they willfully violated it. A Frederick child custody lawyer can help prepare this type of motion and gather the necessary documentation, such as text messages, emails, or statements from witnesses.

Modifications To Custody May Be Considered

Repeated violations can be used as a reason to request a modification of the custody arrangement. If the current plan is no longer working or one parent is consistently noncompliant, the court may agree to adjust the order to better protect the child’s best interests.

This could mean reducing one parent’s visitation time, changing the exchange schedule, or shifting legal decision-making authority. The court will weigh all available information before making a final decision, and strong legal representation can make a difference.

Why Legal Support Matters

Custody issues are sensitive, and when one parent violates an order, the response needs to be firm but appropriate. At Fait & DiLima, LLP, we work with families in Maryland to address custody concerns and take action when court orders are ignored. Our firm understands how to present evidence, protect parental rights, and keep the child’s well-being at the center of every decision.

If you’re dealing with a custody order violation, it’s time to speak with a trusted Frederick child custody lawyer. Contact our firm today.