Family Law

Apparently, love isn’t all your family needs—at least, according to the law.
Often, there are several legal hoops you'll need to jump through in order to secure the family life you're envisioning. These legal hoops could involve getting a divorce, sorting out finances before marriage, securing child support, or adopting a new child into your family.

Regardless of your needs, a quality family law attorney in Frederick, MD can help you achieve your goals, letting you focus on what’s most important-- your family. Here at Horman Nichols, we understand how emotionally stressful these situations can be. That’s why we’re dedicated to acting as your family’s best legal advocate. Learn more about the different situations we can help with below.

Divorce

When you and your spouse got married, you likely both meant 'forever' when you said it. Despite that, things change. Now that the two of you have decided to split up, you'll also need to divide up all your assets, debts, property, and parental responsibilities too.

The bad news is that you’ll have to decide all these things while you’re emotional. That’s why it’s better to hire a family lawyer to represent your wishes and needs. They’ll ensure your rights get upheld and that you and your spouse end your marriage as amicably as possible.

Alimony and Spousal Support

Following a divorce, the court may award one party alimony (also known as spousal support). This is a periodic payment by one spouse for the support of the other.

Every case is unique, so depending on specific family financial circumstances, either spouse may be obligated to receive or pay spousal support.

In general, Alimony is awarded by the court when one spouse is no longer able to meet his or her needs without financial assistance from the other spouse, or when the divorce results in one spouse’s standard of living decreasing to a level deemed grossly unfair.

Having experienced legal counsel can help you understand what factors courts use when determining spousal support, ensuring you receive the best outcome possible.

Separation Agreements

Sometimes spouses may decide to take a break from one another, but neither party is ready to commit to the finality of divorce. In these situations, the best solution may be to draft a separation agreement. This legally binding contract will comprehensively outline both spouses’ rights and determine how possessions will get split up. Our family lawyers can help draft a document that will make your respective right and obligations.

Prenuptial Agreements

Are you planning on getting married? If so, then you or your spouse might be interested in a prenuptial agreement, which will help protect certain assets, properties, or rights in the event of a future divorce or protecting the inheritance of a child from a prior marriage.

Child Support and Custody

Even if you and your former spouse are on good terms, it’s still a smart idea to get an official child support and child custody arrangement on record with the court. Otherwise, in the event circumstances change in the future, one parent could neglect to uphold their arrangement without any legally enforceable repercussions.

Adoptions

If your family is considering adopting a child, then it’s essential you consult an experienced family lawyer to help guide you through the process. Adoption cases can be complex and time-consuming, requiring you to navigate numerous state and local laws in order to make your parental rights official. Horman Nichols will simplify the process, helping your family avoid unnecessary legal complications throughout the adoption.

Hire the Best Family Law Attorney in Frederick, MD

Are you currently facing one of the situations above? If so, then it’s time to hire an experienced family law attorney in Frederick, MD. Without one, you could end up having your rights swept to the side.
To ensure you achieve the best outcome for your family, contact our office now and learn more about how we can help.