5 Myths About Child Custody in Maryland

In many divorces, child custody is a pivotal factor that has a lasting effect on both the child and the parents involved. When preparing for any case involving child custody in Maryland, it is critical that you work with the right lawyer and know the truth behind many of the biggest myths about child custody.

5 Myths About Child Custody in Maryland

1. A Parent Without Custody Can Avoid Child Support if the Other Parent Agrees

In Maryland, you cannot simply bargain or waive your child support obligation. The court will decide what is best for the child, and that child support obligation will override any private agreements or arrangements that both parents might make. In the same fashion, if a parent does not have child custody in Maryland or get to see the child, they may still have to pay child support.

2. Mothers Always Get Child Custody in Maryland

While there have been times in the past where courts seemed to give favor to mothers over fathers in custody hearings, those days are not here any longer. The court examines a broad range of factors that influence the custody decision, including the child’s relationship with each parent, income, household stability and other factors. Fathers should still work with an experienced lawyer like Lebovitz Law to ensure equality in the decision.

3. Visitation Can Be Denied by the Parent with Custody

Both of the parents involved are required to follow the specific guidelines of their child custody agreement. When it comes to child custody in Maryland, you cannot refuse visitation that is required by the agreement, even if the other parent is not meeting their obligations (like paying child support).

4. The Court Can’t Require Mediation

When it comes to child custody in Maryland, the court can order mediation depending on the circumstances of the case. During the mediation process, parents are not required to agree to terms on a final agreement. In many cases, a judge will consider whether or not mediation is the best option for the parents involved and the child before ordering it.

5. Parents Cannot Create a Custody Agreement

This final myth is very prevalent, as many parents believe the court is the only way to resolve child custody issues. Some parents can work through things with the help of a mediator and create a child custody arrangement that they both agree upon. In these cases, the parents can create a consent order that a judge can formally sign in court. Once they do so, the order is considered legally enforceable.

Get Legal Help in Maryland with Lebovitz Law

Whether you are searching for an experienced lawyer to assist with your child custody case or you need help with mediation, Lebovitz Law can help. To learn more about how we can assist you, please contact us.