Columbia Child Custody Attorney

Protecting Your Children’s Best Interests

When a couple goes through a divorce or separation, their children require special attention and consideration. That is why the law in various states requires family law judges to focus their attention on the child’s best interests in child custody cases.

At Ward & Co Law, we have represented the best interests of families in Columbia, Maryland for over two decades. Our team of Columbia child custody attorneys is dedicated to making sure families find a just resolution to their child custody disputes. However, if compromise is not a reasonable option in your case, we are prepared to tenaciously advocate for your rights and the interests of your child.

Do I Really Need A Lawyer For Child Custody?

A legal battle for custody of your children can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. There are many factors that can determine the judge’s decision for custody arrangement; To go it without a family lawyer will be a challenging process. A Maryland child custody attorney can guide you through every challenge of your child custody case.

Child Custody Laws in Maryland

Historically, a parent’s rights concerning the care and control of their children were known as “custody” rights. However, updates to Maryland law characterize these rights as “legal decision making” and “parenting time.”

Under Maryland law, arrangements about legal decision making and parenting time are categorized as follows:

• Legal decision making: Formerly known as “legal custody,” a parent with legal decision making rights has the authority to make certain decisions on their child’s behalf regarding matters like education, religious upbringing, discipline, and medical care. Decision making rights can be solely or jointly exercised. Arrangements regarding joint legal decision making involve parents with equal rights to make decisions for the child, with no parent having greater authority than the other. Decisions require both parents to agree. In contrast, decisions involving sole legal decision making rights give only one parent the right to make such decisions.
• Parenting time: Custody arrangements concerning parenting time dictate a parent’s right to physically spend time with a child. Parenting time can be shared between the parents in various degrees. Parents can have equal parenting time rights, or one parent can have more parenting time than the other. This concept was previously called “physical custody” and “visitation.”

Understanding Child Custody in Columbia, Maryland

Living in Columbia, Maryland, offers a vibrant community with numerous local resources and support systems. When it comes to child custody, it's vital to understand how local laws and entities can influence your situation. For instance, the Howard County Circuit Court is responsible for family law matters, including child custody disputes. Familiarizing yourself with the court and its procedures can be key to effectively navigating your custody case. However, this can be challenging without legal support. As such, having an experienced attorney by your side can provide invaluable guidance throughout the process.

Navigating Custody Arrangements in Columbia: Prioritizing Your Family's Needs

A common challenge for parents in Columbia is balancing work commitments with custody arrangements. Many residents commute, making shared parenting logistics complex. At Ward & Co Law, we recognize these difficulties and strive to create flexible custody arrangements that accommodate your busy lifestyle while prioritizing your child's best interests.

Columbia's diverse community also means that cultural considerations play a significant role in custody decisions. Our team is experienced in addressing these unique factors, taking care to honor your family's cultural values, and incorporating them into the custody plan.

Whether you're establishing custody for the first time or seeking modifications to an existing agreement, Ward & Co Law can assist you. We are dedicated to providing personalized legal support that reflects our deep understanding of Columbia's community and the specific needs of its residents.

Get Started by Calling Ward & Co Law to Consult a Child Custody Attorney in Columbia

If you are in the middle of a difficult legal matter concerning your rights for making legal decisions and having parenting time with your young child, it is in your best interest to consult an experienced attorney from Ward & Co Law. Our team of dedicated Columbia child custody lawyers is here to promote the needs of you and your family in legal actions concerning Maryland divorce and family law, including child custody matters.