We Help You Make Sound Family Law Decisions
At Jackson & Associates Law Firm, we understand the emotional, personal nature of your family law matter. We will listen to your story. We will let you vent. We will take the time necessary to develop a complete understanding of your problem.
Then we will get to work. We will collect the facts, assess your legal options and develop a strategy to benefit you and/or your children for years to come.
It might be hard to believe, but clients tell us that our law office is “almost like home.” People feel that way because law is not a dry, academic subject to us. The law is about humanity, hopes and dreams.
The Scope Of Our Family Law Practice
We represent clients in a wide range of family law matters, including:
- Divorce
- Division of assets
- Child custody
- Child support
- Spousal support/alimony/maintenance
- Separation agreements
- Prenuptial agreements
- Divorce-decree enforcements and modifications
When you are in the midst of a family crisis, it is crucial to work with a lawyer you trust — someone who has the necessary legal knowledge and experience, plus the emotional intelligence needed to help you make sound decisions.
You Are Never Out Of The Loop
You deserve and need to know what is happening with your family law matter. That is why our law firm offers Clio legal management software, which allows you to log in at any time to check the status of your case.
What To Expect When Working With Our Family Law Team
Every family law case follows a general path. Knowing what lies ahead helps you feel more prepared. Here is what each stage involves:
- Initial consultation and case evaluation: We review your situation, answer your questions and identify your legal options from the start.
- Discovery and information gathering: We gather financial records, documents and other relevant information to build a complete picture of your case.
- Negotiation and mediation options: We work to resolve disputes outside of court when doing so serves your best interests.
- Court proceedings timeline: We prepare you for each stage of the court process and keep you informed at every step.
- Post-decree modifications process: We help you seek changes to existing orders when life circumstances shift significantly.
Knowing where you stand at each stage helps you stay engaged and make decisions with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law In Maryland And Washington, D.C.
Family law raises a lot of uncertainties. Here are answers to some of the most common ones we hear from clients in Maryland and Washington, D.C.
What is the difference between legal custody and physical custody in Maryland and Washington, D.C.?
Legal custody and physical custody are two separate rights. Legal custody is the right to make important decisions about a child’s life, including education, religion and healthcare. Physical custody, or parenting time in D.C., refers to where the child lives day-to-day. A court can award either type of custody solely to one parent or jointly to both parents, based on what best serves the child’s interests.
Does Maryland recognize “no-fault” divorce?
Yes, Maryland recognizes no-fault divorce. As of October 2023, couples can divorce after a six-month separation without proving fault. Maryland also offers a ‘Mutual Consent’ option for couples who reach full agreement on all issues.
Can I modify a child support or custody order after it is finalized?
Yes, but you must demonstrate a “material change in circumstances” since the court entered the original order. A significant change in income, a relocation or a change in the child’s needs can each qualify as a material change in circumstances. Courts evaluate whether the change is substantial enough to justify revisiting the existing order.
How To Contact A Family Law Attorney
At Jackson & Associates Law Firm, LLC, we will listen carefully to your story. We will give you an honest assessment of your family law case and create an effective strategy. To schedule an appointment, call us at 301-264-7082 or contact us online.
We have offices in Upper Marlboro, Maryland and Washington, D.C.