Rockville Hispanic Custody Lawyers

Experienced Latino Attorneys for Child Custody Cases in Rockville, Maryland

Going through a child custody dispute can be difficult for any family. During your case, it is important to be represented by someone who understands your unique situation and will work to resolve your case as efficiently as possible.

At Salvado Law Offices, we are uniquely qualified to represent Hispanic families dealing with custody issues in divorce and family law proceedings. Our firm is fluent in both English and Spanish, allowing us to keep you informed of your rights while we advocate for your child's best interests. With over 100 5-star reviews, including glowing testimonials from Latino and Latina clients, you can trust us to handle your concerns with care.

How Are Child Custody Cases Handled in Maryland?

The law in Maryland does not show special preference to mothers or fathers in custody disputes. Instead, the judge will consider what is best for the child over all else. Keeping this standard in mind, you and your co-parent will have to determine how you want to share these responsibilities:

• Physical Custody: This refers to a parent's right to take care of their child or seek visitation.
• Legal Custody: This refers to a parent's right to make long-term decisions on a child's behalf, usually related to education, religion, healthcare, and other choices for the child's welfare.

In many cases, parents end up sharing joint custody. At Salvado Law Offices, we can stand up for you in negotiations for physical and legal custody rights, making sure that your concerns are heard by a family law judge. We can also help you reach an amicable custody agreement outside of court with your co-parent.

Can I Get Sole Custody of My Child?

A child custody dispute could end with one parent being given total legal and physical custody over the child. However, a judge will only consider sole custody as an option if you can show that it is in the child's best interests. The court could decide to award you with sole custody if:

• Your co-parent has physically or emotionally abused your child
• Your co-parent has a substance abuse problem that puts your child at risk
• Your co-parent has mental health issues that contribute to an unstable household

These are not the only grounds for sole custody, but generally, there is a heavy burden of proof that you must meet for a sole custody petition. At Salvado Law Offices, we can help you fight against or advocate for sole custody, depending on your unique situation.

Who Pays for Child Support in Maryland?

When parents go their separate ways and move into different households, both of them are still expected to financially support the child. Once the custody arrangement has been determined, the parent who does not have primary physical custody of the child (referred to as the "non-custodial parent") will usually be responsible for providing child support.

Child support orders can also be modified at a later date if you experience a material change in your circumstances. For example, if the child is diagnosed with a condition that requires ongoing medical support, the custodial parent could petition the court to request increased support. On the other hand, the non-custodial parent could also request to pay reduced support if they experience a substantial reduction to their income.

At Salvado Law Offices, we are here to uphold your parental rights while advocating for a healthy solution for your child's upbringing.