Maryland Child Custody Laws for Unmarried Parents: A Seasoned Attorney’s Guide

For unmarried parents in Maryland, navigating child custody can present unique challenges compared to divorced couples. While the core principle of the “best interest of the child” remains paramount, the initial steps, particularly establishing paternity, are critical and often overlooked. My two decades of practicing family law in Maryland have shown me firsthand the complexities and emotional toll these situations can take. It’s not just about legal statutes; it’s about securing your child’s future and your rightful place in their life.

This comprehensive guide delves into Maryland’s specific child custody laws as they apply to unmarried parents, offering insights drawn from extensive courtroom experience. We will explore the vital process of establishing paternity, understanding the types of custody, the legal avenues available, and practical strategies to protect your parental rights and your child’s well-being.

Understanding Maryland Child Custody for Unmarried Parents: The Stakes Involved

For unmarried parents in Maryland, the stakes in child custody matters are exceptionally high, as formal legal recognition of parental rights and responsibilities is often not automatically assumed, unlike in marital dissolutions. Without a formal custody order, one parent may lack legal standing or protection regarding decision-making, visitation, or access to critical information about their child’s life.

The primary concern in any Maryland child custody dispute, whether between married or unmarried parents, is the “best interest of the child.” This legal standard, established through Maryland common law and enshrined in cases like Taylor v. Taylor, guides all judicial decisions regarding custody and visitation. However, for unmarried parents, the journey to establishing those rights often begins with a critical preliminary step: paternity.

The Critical Role of Paternity

Unlike children born within a marriage, where both parents are automatically presumed to be the legal parents, a child born to unmarried parents in Maryland requires the father’s paternity to be legally established. Without this, the father may have no legal rights to custody, visitation, or even the ability to make decisions for the child. Conversely, the mother may not be able to obtain child support or other parental contributions from the father without this legal finding.

Maryland law provides several ways to establish paternity:

• Acknowledgment of Paternity Affidavit: If both parents agree, they can sign an Acknowledgement of Paternity Affidavit at the hospital when the child is born or later at the local health department or Department of Social Services (DSS). This is often the simplest and quickest method.
• Administrative Paternity Order: The Child Support Enforcement Administration (CSEA) within the Department of Human Services can issue an administrative order of paternity if genetic testing confirms parentage.
• Judicial Order: Either parent can file a complaint to establish paternity in a Maryland Circuit Court. This typically involves DNA testing and a court order declaring legal parentage.

My seasoned experience has taught me that delaying paternity establishment can lead to significant complications down the line, especially if one parent becomes uncooperative or if there are disputes over support or visitation. It is the bedrock upon which all other custody considerations are built.

Types of Custody in Maryland

Once paternity is established (or if it’s undisputed), Maryland courts will determine two primary forms of custody:

1. Legal Custody: This refers to the right and responsibility to make major decisions affecting the child’s upbringing, including education, health care, religious training, and general welfare.
   • Sole Legal Custody: One parent has the exclusive right to make these decisions.
   • Joint Legal Custody: Both parents share the decision-making authority. This is often preferred by Maryland courts, as it encourages co-parenting and shared responsibility. However, it requires parents to be able to communicate effectively and cooperate.
2. Physical Custody: This refers to where the child lives primarily.
   • Sole Physical Custody: The child lives primarily with one parent, and the other parent typically has visitation rights.
   • Joint Physical Custody: The child spends significant time with both parents. This does not necessarily mean a 50/50 split but rather a substantial amount of time with each.

The combination of legal and physical custody determines the full scope of a parent’s rights and responsibilities. The precise arrangements will always be tailored to the child’s best interests, considering a multitude of factors the court weighs carefully.

The Maryland Legal Process: Establishing Paternity & Custody Orders

The legal process for unmarried parents seeking child custody in Maryland typically begins with establishing paternity, followed by filing a complaint in the Circuit Court, where the child’s best interests will guide all decisions on legal and physical custody, often involving mediation or formal hearings.

The journey through the Maryland legal system to secure a custody order for unmarried parents can seem daunting, but it follows a structured path. Understanding each phase, and the roles of various entities, is crucial for navigating it effectively.

Initiating the Case: Filing a Complaint

Once paternity is established, or if it’s acknowledged and undisputed, either parent can initiate a custody case by filing a “Complaint for Custody” in the Circuit Court for the county where the child resides. This formal document outlines the relief being sought, such as specific legal and physical custody arrangements, and potentially child support.

Upon filing, the other parent must be formally served with the complaint, ensuring they are aware of the legal action and have an opportunity to respond. My experience has taught me that proper service is a critical, foundational step that can derail a case if not handled meticulously.

The Role of Maryland Circuit Courts

The Maryland Circuit Courts are the primary venues for all child custody matters. These courts are equipped to handle complex family law disputes, including those involving unmarried parents. A judge in the Circuit Court will preside over the case, applying Maryland law and the “best interest of the child” standard to reach a custody determination.

Judges consider a comprehensive list of factors to determine the child’s best interests, including, but not limited to:

• The fitness of each parent.
• The character and reputation of each parent.
• The desires of the parents.
• The child’s preferences (if of sufficient age and maturity).
• The child’s adjustment to their home, school, and community.
• The stability of the proposed home environment.
• The potential for maintaining family relationships.
• Any evidence of abuse or neglect.
• The geographical proximity of the parents’ homes.
• The parents’ ability to communicate and cooperate in raising the child.

Mediation and Settlement Conferences

Maryland courts strongly encourage parents to resolve custody disputes through alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation. Many Circuit Courts offer court-sponsored mediation services, or parents can engage a private mediator. In mediation, a neutral third party helps parents communicate, identify common ground, and negotiate a mutually agreeable parenting plan.

If mediation is successful, the agreement is typically formalized into a court order. If not, the case proceeds to litigation. Settlement conferences, often facilitated by a judge or court-appointed master, also provide an opportunity for parents to reach an agreement before a full trial.

Discovery and Hearings

If a settlement is not reached, the litigation process involves “discovery,” where parents exchange information relevant to the case, such as financial documents, medical records, and potentially psychological evaluations. This phase can be extensive and is crucial for building a strong case.

Eventually, the case will proceed to contested hearings or a trial. During a trial, both parents present evidence, testimony, and legal arguments to the judge, who will then issue a final custody order. The complexity and duration of this process can vary significantly depending on the level of dispute between the parents.

The Maryland Department of Social Services (DSS)

While the Circuit Courts handle custody adjudication, the Maryland Department of Social Services (DSS) may become involved in specific circumstances. DSS is primarily responsible for child welfare, including investigating allegations of child abuse or neglect. If concerns about a child’s safety or well-being arise during a custody dispute, DSS may conduct an investigation, and their findings can significantly influence a judge’s custody decision.

Additionally, the Child Support Enforcement Administration (CSEA), a division of DSS, is instrumental in establishing paternity and enforcing child support orders. While child support is separate from custody, the establishment of paternity by CSEA often paves the way for a subsequent custody case in Circuit Court.

The SRIS Maryland Child Custody Pathway Planner Tool

Navigating the child custody process in Maryland as an unmarried parent can feel overwhelming. To help you organize your thoughts, understand the key areas, and prepare effectively, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has developed the SRIS Maryland Child Custody Pathway Planner. This tool is designed to provide a structured approach to thinking through the elements crucial to your case, whether you’re considering negotiation or preparing for court.

How to Use The SRIS Maryland Child Custody Pathway Planner: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Step 1: Paternity Confirmation Checklist

   Before any custody discussions, ensure paternity is legally established. Answer these questions:

   • Have both parents signed an Acknowledgment of Paternity Affidavit? (If yes, note date and location.)
   • Has a DNA test been performed? (If yes, note date and results.)
   • Is there a judicial or administrative order confirming paternity? (If yes, provide details.)
   • If paternity is not yet established, what is your plan to do so (e.g., file a complaint, contact CSEA)?
2. Step 2: Understanding Your Custody Goals (Legal & Physical)

   Clearly define what you believe is in your child’s best interest. Consider:

   • Legal Custody: Do you seek sole or joint legal custody? Who should make decisions about:
     • Education (school choice, extracurricular activities)
     • Healthcare (doctors, medical treatments)
     • Religious upbringing
     • General welfare (discipline, moral guidance)
   • Physical Custody: What is your ideal living arrangement for the child?
     • Primary residence with one parent, with visitation for the other?
     • Shared physical custody (e.g., 50/50, 60/40)?
     • Consider the child’s school, friends, and daily routine.
3. Step 3: Crafting a Parenting Plan Outline

   A detailed parenting plan is the backbone of any custody agreement or order. Outline key aspects:

   • Daily Schedule: Where the child will be on weekdays and weekends.
   • Holiday Schedule: Allocation of major holidays (e.g., Christmas, Thanksgiving, Mother’s/Father’s Day) on an alternating or fixed basis.
   • Vacation Schedule: How vacations will be planned, notice requirements, and international travel considerations.
   • Transportation: Who is responsible for pick-ups and drop-offs.
   • Communication: How parents will communicate with each other and with the child during the other parent’s time.
   • Emergency Procedures: What happens in medical emergencies or other unforeseen events.
   • Child Support: While separate, how will child support be handled in conjunction with custody?
4. Step 4: Documenting Key Information & Evidence

   Gather relevant documents and information to support your position:

   • Child’s birth certificate and medical records.
   • School records and academic performance.
   • Photos, videos, or communications demonstrating parental involvement.
   • Financial records for child support calculations.
   • Any existing agreements or informal arrangements.
   • Witness contact information (if applicable).
5. Step 5: Identifying Strengths and Challenges

   Honestly assess your situation:

   • Strengths: What factors weigh in your favor (e.g., stable home, strong bond with child, cooperative nature)?
   • Challenges: What issues might arise (e.g., communication difficulties with the other parent, history of conflict, financial constraints)?
   • Child’s Needs: What are the unique needs of your child (e.g., special education, health issues) and how will they be met?

Utilizing this planner before discussions or court proceedings can significantly enhance your preparedness and focus. While this tool is a valuable guide, it is not a substitute for legal counsel. For personalized advice and representation, reach out to Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

Crafting Your Path Forward: Legal Strategies and Approaches

Effective legal strategies for unmarried parents in Maryland custody cases prioritize the child’s best interests while leveraging either amicable negotiation or assertive litigation, depending on the parents’ ability to cooperate and the specific facts of the case.

Successfully navigating Maryland’s child custody laws for unmarried parents requires more than just understanding the statutes; it demands strategic planning and an adaptive approach. My years in the courtroom have illuminated a range of effective strategies, each tailored to the unique dynamics of a family and the specific challenges presented.

Prioritizing the “Best Interest of the Child”

At the heart of every successful custody strategy is an unwavering focus on the “best interest of the child.” This is not merely a legal phrase but a guiding principle that influences every aspect of the case. By consistently demonstrating how your proposed custody arrangement serves your child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs, you strengthen your position with the court.

This means being prepared to articulate why your living situation is stable, how you can support the child’s education and health, and your willingness to foster a relationship with the other parent (unless there are compelling reasons not to, such as documented abuse). I have found that judges respond favorably to parents who can articulate a thoughtful, child-centered plan rather than focusing solely on their own desires.

Negotiation and Mediation: The Amicable Path

When possible, pursuing negotiation and mediation is often the most cost-effective and least emotionally taxing strategy. It empowers parents to retain control over the outcome rather than leaving it to a judge. My seasoned approach involves:

• Open Communication: Encouraging respectful and child-focused dialogue with the other parent.
• Parenting Plan Development: Collaborating to create a detailed, comprehensive parenting plan that addresses all aspects of custody, visitation, holidays, and decision-making.
• Mediator Engagement: Utilizing a neutral mediator to facilitate discussions, identify common ground, and help bridge divides. A skilled mediator can help diffuse tension and keep the focus on the child.

An agreement reached through negotiation or mediation, once approved by the court, becomes a legally binding order. This approach fosters a cooperative co-parenting relationship, which is ultimately beneficial for the child’s long-term well-being.

Litigation: When Court Intervention is Necessary

Sometimes, despite best efforts, parents cannot agree, and litigation becomes unavoidable. In such cases, an assertive and meticulously prepared approach is essential. This involves:

• Thorough Discovery: Gathering all relevant evidence, including financial documents, medical records, school reports, and any communications between parents.
• Witness Preparation: Identifying and preparing witnesses who can provide credible testimony regarding parental fitness, the child’s needs, or the living environment.
• Expert Testimony: In some complex cases, particularly those involving allegations of abuse, mental health concerns, or special needs children, engaging experts (e.g., child psychologists, forensic accountants) may be necessary to provide professional insights to the court.
• Compelling Courtroom Presentation: Presenting your case clearly and persuasively to the judge, demonstrating how your proposed custody arrangement aligns with the “best interest of the child” standard as defined by Maryland law.

This path demands a comprehensive understanding of Maryland Rules of Procedure and family law, and an experienced attorney is crucial for navigating its complexities. I always emphasize to my clients that while litigation can be adversarial, the ultimate goal remains the child’s welfare.

Modifications of Existing Orders

Life circumstances change, and a custody order that worked well years ago may no longer be suitable. Maryland law allows for the modification of custody orders if there has been a “material change in circumstances” since the last order was issued, and the modification is in the child’s best interest. This could include changes in a parent’s living situation, employment, or a child’s evolving needs. My experience extends to guiding parents through the modification process, ensuring the child’s current needs are met by the legal framework.

Common Mistakes Unmarried Parents Make in Maryland Custody Cases

Drawing from my extensive experience, I’ve observed several recurring pitfalls that unmarried parents often encounter during custody proceedings in Maryland. Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome and, more importantly, protect your child’s best interests.

1. Failing to Formally Establish Paternity: This is arguably the most critical mistake for unmarried fathers. Without legal paternity, a father may have no legal right to custody, visitation, or involvement in major decisions, and a mother may struggle to enforce child support. Relying solely on a birth certificate, which only establishes biological parentage, is insufficient for legal rights and responsibilities in Maryland.
2. Not Seeking a Formal Court Order: Many unmarried parents operate under informal agreements. While these can work for a time, they offer no legal protection. If one parent moves, changes their mind, or becomes uncooperative, there’s no legally enforceable document to protect visitation or decision-making rights. An informal agreement is difficult to enforce and leaves both parents vulnerable.
3. Poor Communication and Documentation: Failing to maintain a respectful line of communication with the other parent, or neglecting to document significant interactions (e.g., missed visitations, specific agreements, concerns about the child’s welfare), can harm your case. Judges look favorably upon parents who attempt to co-parent amicably and who have clear records.
4. Prioritizing Personal Conflict Over the Child’s Best Interest: Custody cases can be emotionally charged. However, allowing personal animosity or past relationship issues to overshadow the child’s needs is detrimental. Maryland courts are solely focused on the child’s best interest, and demonstrating an inability to co-parent or a willingness to involve the child in conflict will reflect poorly on a parent.
5. Moving Out of State Without Court Permission: If you have an existing custody order or if a custody case is pending, moving a child out of Maryland without prior court approval can lead to serious legal consequences, including being found in contempt of court or even losing custody. This is especially critical for unmarried parents who might not realize the legal implications of such a move.
6. Not Preparing for Mediation or Court Hearings: Showing up unprepared for mediation or a court hearing can be costly. This includes not having relevant documents, not understanding the “best interest of the child” factors, or not being able to articulate a clear parenting plan. Preparation, as outlined in the SRIS Maryland Child Custody Pathway Planner, is key.
7. Violating Existing Informal or Formal Agreements: Whether an agreement is informal or a court order, consistently violating its terms (e.g., withholding visitation, being late for exchanges, making unilateral decisions) can be used against you in court and undermine your credibility.
8. Delaying Legal Counsel: Many parents try to handle custody matters on their own, only seeking legal advice when the situation has significantly deteriorated. Engaging a seasoned attorney early can help avoid many common pitfalls, provide strategic guidance, and ensure all necessary steps are taken correctly from the outset.

Glossary of Key Terms

Understanding the legal terminology is crucial when navigating child custody laws for unmarried parents in Maryland. Here are some key terms you’ll encounter:

Paternity

The legal establishment of a man as the biological and legal father of a child. This is a foundational step for unmarried fathers to assert their parental rights and for mothers to seek child support.

Legal Custody

The right and responsibility to make major decisions about a child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare, religious training, and general welfare. Can be sole or joint.

Physical Custody

Refers to where the child lives. Can be sole (child lives primarily with one parent) or joint (child spends significant time with both parents).

Best Interest of the Child

The overarching legal standard used by Maryland courts to make all decisions regarding child custody and visitation. It focuses on factors that promote the child’s welfare and development.

Parenting Plan

A detailed written agreement or court order outlining how parents will share parenting responsibilities, including schedules, holidays, transportation, communication, and decision-making.

Mediation

A process where a neutral third party (mediator) helps parents communicate and negotiate a mutually agreeable custody and visitation arrangement, often avoiding the need for a full trial.

Visitation (Parenting Time)

The schedule and conditions under which a non-custodial parent (or a parent with joint physical custody) spends time with the child. Modern terminology often prefers “parenting time.”

Real-World Scenarios: Maryland Unmarried Parent Custody Questions Answered

The application of Maryland’s child custody laws to unmarried parents often becomes clearest through real-life situations. Here are a few common scenarios I’ve encountered, along with how the law typically applies:

Scenario 1: Parents Separating with a Newborn, No Paternity Established

Question: “My boyfriend and I just had a baby in Maryland, but we’ve decided to separate. He wants to be involved, but we haven’t signed anything. What do we do about custody and his rights?”

Answer: The first and most critical step is to formally establish paternity. If both parents agree, signing an Acknowledgment of Paternity Affidavit at the hospital or local health department is the simplest method. This legally recognizes the father. Once paternity is established, you can then proceed to negotiate a parenting plan that addresses both legal and physical custody, or if unable to agree, file a Complaint for Custody in the Maryland Circuit Court. Without formal paternity, the father has no legal rights to custody or visitation, and the mother cannot formally seek child support.

Scenario 2: Long-Term Informal Agreement, One Parent Wants to Relocate Out of State

Question: “My child’s father and I have never been married but have always had an informal custody arrangement. He’s now planning to move to another state for a new job and wants to take our child with him. Do I have any say in this?”

Answer: This is a common and often challenging situation. Because there is no formal court order, the legal standing for either parent can be precarious. If the father moves the child without your consent and a court order, it could constitute a legal issue. You need to immediately file a Complaint for Custody in the Maryland Circuit Court and seek an injunction to prevent the relocation. The court will then determine if the move is in the child’s best interest, considering factors like the child’s ties to Maryland, the reasons for the move, and the impact on the relationship with the non-relocating parent. Having a formal custody order in place, even if it’s based on your prior informal agreement, would have provided significantly more protection in this scenario.

Scenario 3: One Parent Denying Access After a Disagreement

Question: “My child’s mother and I were never married, but I’ve always been an active parent. After a big argument, she’s now refusing to let me see our child. What are my options in Maryland?”

Answer: Assuming your paternity has been legally established (which is the critical first step), the mother cannot unilaterally deny you access to your child. Your primary option is to file a Complaint for Custody and Visitation in the Maryland Circuit Court. You can also file a motion for an emergency hearing if the denial of access is sudden and harmful to the child’s welfare. The court will then issue an order for custody and visitation based on the child’s best interests. This highlights the importance of having a formal court order in place to prevent such arbitrary denials of parenting time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Child Custody in Maryland for Unmarried Parents

Here are answers to some of the most common questions I receive from unmarried parents regarding child custody in Maryland:

Q1: Do unmarried mothers automatically get sole legal and physical custody in Maryland?
A1: No, not automatically. While the mother may initially have physical custody, especially with a newborn, Maryland law does not grant automatic sole custody to either parent simply because they are unmarried. The courts always decide based on the “best interest of the child.” Once paternity is established, the father has equal rights to seek custody.

Q2: How is child support determined for unmarried parents in Maryland?
A2: Child support in Maryland is calculated using specific Child Support Guidelines based on a formula that considers both parents’ incomes, the number of overnights each parent has with the child, health insurance costs, and childcare expenses. Paternity must be legally established before a child support order can be issued or enforced.

Q3: Can we reach a custody agreement without going to court?
A3: Yes, you can. Parents are encouraged to reach a mutual agreement on custody and visitation outside of court, often through negotiation or mediation. However, to make this agreement legally binding and enforceable, it must be drafted into a formal “Parenting Plan” or “Custody Agreement” and then submitted to the Maryland Circuit Court for approval and made into a court order.

Q4: What if one parent wants to move out of Maryland with the child?
A4: If a custody order is in place, the parent wishing to relocate with the child must typically seek permission from the court. The court will evaluate if the relocation is in the child’s best interest, considering factors like the reasons for the move, the impact on the child’s relationship with the non-relocating parent, and the child’s ties to the current community. If no order exists, the non-moving parent should immediately file for custody to prevent the relocation.

Q5: What factors do Maryland courts consider when determining “best interest of the child”?
A5: Maryland courts consider a wide range of factors, including the child’s relationship with each parent, the parents’ ability to communicate and cooperate, the child’s wishes (if mature enough), the child’s adjustment to school and community, each parent’s fitness, and any history of abuse or neglect. There is no single determinative factor.

Q6: Is joint custody preferred by Maryland courts?
A6: Maryland courts often favor joint legal custody, as it encourages shared parental responsibility. Joint physical custody may also be awarded if it is practical and in the child’s best interest, and if the parents demonstrate an ability to co-parent effectively. However, sole custody can be awarded if joint custody is not feasible or beneficial for the child.

Q7: How long does a child custody case take in Maryland?
A7: The timeline varies significantly. An uncontested agreement that is submitted for court approval might be finalized in a few months. A highly contested case involving discovery, multiple hearings, and potentially a trial can take anywhere from six months to over a year, depending on court dockets and case complexity.

Q8: Can grandparents or other relatives get visitation rights in Maryland?
A8: Yes, under certain circumstances. Maryland law allows “de facto” parents, grandparents, and other third parties to seek custody or visitation. However, they must typically demonstrate that parental custody is not in the child’s best interest or that they stand in loco parentis (in the place of a parent) and that denying visitation would harm the child.

Q9: What if one parent has a history of drug or alcohol abuse?
A9: A history of substance abuse can significantly impact custody decisions. The court’s primary concern will be the child’s safety and well-being. The parent with such a history may be required to undergo drug testing, attend counseling, or have supervised visitation. This issue will be weighed heavily in the “best interest of the child” analysis.

Q10: Can a child choose which parent to live with in Maryland?
A10: Maryland law does not set a specific age at which a child can choose where to live. However, the court will consider the child’s wishes if the child is of sufficient age and maturity to express a rational preference. The older and more mature the child, the more weight their preference may be given, but it is never the sole determining factor.

Q11: What is a “parenting coordinator” and when are they used?
A11: A parenting coordinator is a neutral third party, often a mental health or legal professional, appointed by the court or agreed upon by parents to help high-conflict parents implement their custody order and resolve minor disputes outside of court. They are typically used in complex cases where parents struggle with communication and cooperation.

Q12: How do I modify an existing child custody order in Maryland?
A12: To modify an existing order, you must demonstrate to the Maryland Circuit Court that there has been a “material change in circumstances” since the last order was issued, and that the proposed modification is in the child’s best interest. Changes in employment, residence, or a child’s needs can constitute a material change.

Q13: What happens if one parent violates a custody order?
A13: If a parent violates a court-ordered custody or visitation schedule, the other parent can file a “Motion to Enforce” or a “Show Cause Order” with the Maryland Circuit Court. The court can order the violating parent to comply, make up missed time, pay fines, or in severe or repeated cases, modify the custody order or find the parent in contempt.

Q14: Are step-parents or new partners considered in Maryland custody cases?
A14: While the court’s primary focus is on the biological parents, the presence and influence of new partners or step-parents can be considered as part of the overall living environment. Their character, involvement, and impact on the child’s well-being can be relevant factors in determining the “best interest of the child.”

Q15: What if I believe the other parent is unfit?
A15: If you believe the other parent is unfit due to issues like substance abuse, neglect, abuse, or serious mental health problems, you must provide compelling evidence to the Maryland Circuit Court. In such cases, the court may order evaluations, supervised visitation, or award sole custody to the fit parent to protect the child’s safety and welfare. If there are immediate concerns about abuse or neglect, you should also contact the Maryland Department of Social Services (DSS).

Securing Your Child’s Future: Take Action Now

Navigating Maryland’s child custody laws as an unmarried parent requires a nuanced understanding of the legal landscape and a strategic approach focused on your child’s best interests. Don’t leave your child’s future or your parental rights to chance. For personalized legal guidance and seasoned representation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today. Call us at 888-437-7747 for a confidential case review. Our attorneys are ready to help you establish paternity, negotiate fair agreements, or vigorously represent you in court.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. The laws governing child custody for unmarried parents in Maryland are complex and subject to change. For advice tailored to your specific situation, you should consult with a qualified attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. The information provided herein is for informational purposes only and is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.