FAMILY MATTERS

Although most people desire to be married or have a partner for life, that is an increasingly difficult status to maintain in our society. And when conflicts arise, the ending of a marriage is often filled with financial, emotional and psychological stress on both parties. Unfortunately, there are no real winners in most family break ups or domestic disputes.

And though most people hope that their split from a spouse or significant other will be amicable and uncontested, more often than not, conflict arises due to the disappointment and bitterness that often accompanies such break ups only to become worse when minor children are involved.

Many decision and compromises may have to be made at some point in this process. The Court does not always know who is in the right and wrong. The law attempts to be neutral but we all have certain beliefs and customs that can affect the outcome of any legal proceeding. The Court often is at a loss to know what is the best thing to do and would prefer for the Parties to amicably settle their differences. Negotiation and Mediation are preferred but not every party wants to compromise and litigation may be the only way to resolve certain issues. Issues such as deciding where the minor children primarily reside, who pays child or spousal support and how tall the assets and property are distributed can be a time consuming, exhausting and expensive proposition if an amicable settlement cannot be reached earlier in the process.

Competent, experienced and caring legal representation can make all the difference in the world. It is very important to have a lawyer who will tell you the truth not only what you want to hear. It is important to have a lawyer who will challenge you to take the high road and be open to compromise, but is also important to have a lawyer who will be aggressive in fighting for your rights if the other Party or their lawyer refuses to be reasonable in accordance with the Maryland Law.

• Divorce
• Child Custody
• Child Support
• Parental Visitation
• Spousal Support (Alimony)
• Division of Assets and Property (Real and Personal)
• Domestic Violence Petitions
• Modifications of Custody and Financial Support (Child and Spousal)

Difficult choices will need to be made before, during and after beginning the process to resolve your matter after securing legal representation. It will be my privilege to represent your interests, explain the rules and nuances of the law, review the pros and cons for different options in order to support the decision that works best for you and your life so that there can be an acceptable and favorable resolution of your legal matter.

Due to the complexity of these family law matters, the Law Office of Stephen F. Allen, P.C. offers paid appointments which provide a thorough review of the law and possible options for you to consider in your specific situation. The consultation is designed to be informative in order to help you clearly understand your rights, options and will guide you in making the best choices in your situation.