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Maryland Divorce Lawyers and Family Law Attorneys

Facing a divorce, or any family law matter, can be life-altering. Whether you’re going through a high-net-worth divorce in Bethesda or a complex asset division involving properties in Potomac and Silver Spring, family law issues can be overwhelming. At Tucker Family Law, we understand the profound impact divorce can have on your life, affecting everything from your children’s futures to your financial stability and emotional well-being. Whether you’re worried about child support, how you’ll maintain your current lifestyle or a multitude of other things, facing these obstacles without the guidance of a top Maryland divorce lawyer can leave you feeling lost — and leave your rights unprotected.

For over 50 years, Tucker’s divorce attorneys have protected what matters most for clients facing family law issues in Montgomery County: their futures. We handle the full spectrum of divorce, child custody and relationship issues and can discuss your options with you. Book a consultation to speak with a Maryland family law attorney today.

Montgomery County divorce lawyers

No two family law cases are alike. That’s why our top-rated divorce lawyers in Montgomery County provide holistic, solutions-focused, compassionate representation based on your unique goals so you can move forward confidently. Whether your case involves negotiating a settlement agreement, Collaborative Divorce or vigorously representing your interests in litigation, our MD family law attorneys are committed to securing the best possible outcomes for your family, finances and future.

Focusing on divorce and family law in Maryland

Our Maryland divorce attorneys serve clients throughout Montgomery County, including the communities of:

Bethesda
Brookmont
Cabin John
Chevy Chase
Darnestown
Gaithersburg

Glen Echo
Kensington
North Bethesda
North Potomac
Oakmont
Potomac

Rockville
Silver Spring
Somerset
Takoma Park
And all other areas across MoCo

Meet our Maryland divorce attorneys

marina-barannik-full

Marina S. Barannik

Founding Partner

jonathan-dana-full

Jonathan M. Dana

Founding Partner

jennifer-davison-full

Jennifer A. Davison

Partner

katherine-orourke-full

Katherine A. O'Rourke

Partner

olivia-scott-full

Olivia K. Scott

Associate

sarah-zimmerman-full

Sarah J. Zimmerman

Founding Partner

Types of cases our family law attorneys in Maryland handle

Family law is a broad area that encompasses a range of legal issues. Our dedicated Maryland family law attorneys handle many different kinds of family matters for clients, including but not limited to the following:

Maryland divorce and separation

When you’re going through a divorce or legal separation, you want a family law attorney who’s committed to achieving the best outcome for you. Tucker’s Montgomery County and Bethesda divorce lawyers understand the intricacies of Maryland divorce law and serve as tireless advocates for your best interests and those of your family. Whether the right path for your divorce is through mediation, negotiation, Collaborative Divorce or, when necessary, litigation, we tailor our representation to your unique situation and priorities. Our divorce lawyers in MD will guide you through every step of the divorce process to help you make decisions that secure the best outcomes, now and into the future.

Maryland custody and child support

Tucker’s award-winning family law attorneys in MD understand that child support and custody are at the heart of your concerns during divorce, separation or co-parenting outside of marriage. You want fairness, stability and a future where your children’s needs are met. Our dedicated legal team is here to guide you through the nuances of Maryland family law regarding child custody and visitation, including international and cross-state custody matters, ensuring that your children’s well-being is prioritized. Together with you, our Bethesda family law team will work to secure practical, long-lasting child support and custody agreements that protect your family’s emotional and financial health.

Maryland asset and property division

When it comes to marital property and asset division during divorce, understanding your rights is critical. Tucker’s family law attorneys in Maryland are deeply experienced in the full spectrum of issues related to dividing assets — from determining the value of your marital home to tracking “hidden” assets to settling disputes over business ownership. Our divorce attorneys in MD will scrutinize every detail while guiding you objectively through the process, empowering you to make decisions that align with your priorities and secure your future.

Maryland domestic violence and protection orders

Addressing domestic violence and obtaining protection orders are crucial steps for your safety. Whether you are a victim of intimate partner violence or addressing allegations, the family law attorneys in our Bethesda office work to achieve fair, effective resolutions that prioritize the well-being of everyone involved. Our Maryland legal team is here to help you understand the legal protections available to you while addressing related issues, such as child custody and financial support, and how to effectively present your case in court so you can move forward with your life.

Maryland prenups and postnuptial agreements

Ensuring that your financial interests and assets are protected in a marriage or domestic partnership may start with a well-crafted prenuptial or postnuptial agreement. Tucker’s skilled Maryland divorce attorneys specialize in facilitating these often-challenging conversations, providing counsel and drafting contracts that meet your unique needs and offer you peace of mind. Whether you wish to create an agreement or you’ve been asked to sign one, the team at our Bethesda family law office can help you carefully evaluate every issue and compose a comprehensive document that reflects your goals and vision as a couple.

LGBTQ+ representation in Maryland

Our family law attorneys in Maryland are here to fully protect your rights and needs, no matter your family dynamic or how you choose to live and love. From creating agreements that reflect your specific goals to advocating for your rights in more complex legal matters, our MD divorce lawyers are experienced in providing the specialized counsel and support you need to achieve an optimal resolution for your case.

Different family dynamics can lead to unique legal needs. At Tucker Family Law, our attorneys have decades of experience assisting clients with the full spectrum of family situations, including non-traditional families, to achieve resolutions that best fit your circumstances and goals.

Our Bethesda office location

Tucker Virginia family law attorneys Marina Barannik, Jonathan Dana, Jennifer Davison, Katherine O’Rourke, Olivia Scott, and Sarah Zimmerman welcome the opportunity to meet and work with you.

4800 Hampden Lane
Suite 200
Bethesda, MD 20814
Phone: 301.232.1252
Fax: 202.866.3636
info@tuckerfamilylaw.com

Have a family law matter? Don’t wait to contact our divorce attorneys in MD

Navigating divorce or family law issues requires not just legal knowledge but an in-depth understanding of the emotional and financial complexities involved. If you’re facing a family law matter, the path forward might seem daunting. That’s where Tucker Family Law steps in. Our Maryland family law attorneys will guide you through every stage of your case, from helping you understand your rights and the legal process to empowering you to make decisions that secure the most ideal resolution for your future.

To learn more about your rights or to find out what it takes to file for divorce in Maryland, contact the experienced divorce attorneys at Tucker.

Getting the facts about divorce in Maryland

Maryland divorce laws have specific requirements and nuances that can be hard to understand without the experience and knowledge of a good family law attorney. Our Montgomery County family law attorneys are here to provide the information you need to make informed decisions about your divorce or family law matter. We’ll help you understand the intricacies of Maryland family law as it pertains to your case, whether that involves child custody and support, alimony, or how property and debts are divided in divorce. We’ll make sure you’re equipped with the right information so you can make the best decision for your situation.

What our MD family lawyers do

Our Bethesda and Montgomery County divorce attorneys are equipped with the skills and resources to handle a wide range of cases.

Whether your case involves a high-asset divorce, high-conflict divorce, military divorce, international custody, or situations of domestic violence, mental health or substance misuse, we have the expertise to support your unique needs:

Why choose Tucker Family Law?

The Tucker Family Law attorneys provide insight and experience that can guide you toward achieving the best resolution for your future. We offer:

  • A century of collective experience: Ensure that your best interests — and rights — are protected by one of the DMV’s largest family law firms with over a century of collective experience in family law.
  • A customized, whole-person approach: Gain peace of mind that all aspects of your individual situation will be addressed, including your personal circumstances, family dynamics, financial implications and long-term well-being.
  • Future-focused solutions: Plan for a better tomorrow for you and your family with a team that understands and anticipates your long-term needs.
  • Trusted counsel at every step: Feel supported and informed as you make decisions that help set you on a path to a positive resolution.

Contact a divorce attorney in Montgomery County

Experiencing a divorce or family law matter and feeling overwhelmed with where to start? A divorce lawyer in Maryland can assist with your case. Contact the Tucker family law attorneys today to learn more about our services for MoCo residents.

Located in the heart of downtown Bethesda our family law firm offers sophisticated legal services from our office at 4800 Hampden Lane, Suite 200, Bethesda. This prime location serves as a central meeting point to serve clients across Montgomery County, Md., with ease. Whether you’re facing complex family law issues such as divorce, custody matters or property division, our dedicated team of Maryland family law attorneys is here to provide you with the guidance and support you need. Tucker’s Bethesda satellite office is within walking distance of Bethesda Row, the Bethesda Metro (Red Line) and the Capital Crescent Bike Trail. Situated in a vibrant area known for its dining and shopping options, the location provides our clients with a comfortable, convenient setting.

Maryland family law frequently asked questions

Is Maryland a marital property state?

No, Maryland doesn’t follow community property laws but instead uses a legal framework called equitable distribution to divide marital assets and debts. Maryland distinguishes between marital property (assets/debts acquired during marriage) and separate property (assets/debts acquired before marriage, or by inheritance or gift).

Under equitable distribution, marital assets and debts are divided “fairly” but not necessarily “equally.” Some of the factors a Maryland judge must consider include:
• Length of the marriage
• Each spouse’s contributions to the marriage
• Reasons for divorce

In Maryland, property acquired after separation but before a divorce is finalized may still be considered marital property if it was acquired from marital funds or the result of marital effort. This distinction hinges on how the assets were obtained and whether they were intended to be separate or marital. These assets are subject to MD’s equitable distribution laws, and their division depends on the specific circumstances of your case.

Maryland law requires “two-party consent” for recording conversations, making it illegal to record a private conversation without the consent of all parties. While secretly recording your co-parent or soon-to-be ex-spouse might seem helpful in your divorce or custody case, the state takes this law seriously and violations could lead to criminal charges.

Maryland doesn’t recognize common law marriages established within its jurisdiction. Couples must obtain a marriage license and have a formal marriage ceremony to be considered legally married in Maryland. However, Maryland courts acknowledge common law marriages established in other jurisdictions where those marriages are legally recognized.

Alimony, also known as spousal support, calculations in Maryland are based on an individual basis and involve a comprehensive look at many factors, including:
• Length of the marriage
• Standard of living established during the marriage
• Each spouse’s financial resources and needs
• Contributions to the marriage
• Circumstances leading to the divorce

Because each case is highly individualized, there’s no set formula for calculating alimony in Maryland. The court seeks to arrive at a fair resolution when determining alimony support.

Yes, Maryland is one of the few states that recognizes domestic partners for individuals who live together but aren’t married. This applies to both same-sex and opposite-sex [ES1] couples. A couple must meet the requirements and sign an affidavit to qualify for domestic partnership. This designation can be an important factor in matters like property division, inheritance and medical decision making.

Collaborative divorce is a legal process in Maryland designed for couples who commit to resolving their separation or divorce outside of court through negotiation and mediation. This process requires both parties and their attorneys to engage in good faith negotiations, often involving other professionals (like financial advisors and mental health professionals), to reach a mutually agreeable settlement without litigation.

Adultery is considered a misdemeanor in Maryland, punishable by a $10 fine. However, more importantly, in divorce proceedings, Maryland law considers adultery grounds for divorce, which means that it can impact spousal support and property division decisions.

The cost of a divorce in Maryland varies widely based on many factors. A significant indicator of divorce cost is the type of divorce process you use:
• Collaborative law: In a collaborative divorce, both parties work with their attorneys and, often, other professionals to resolve their divorce issues outside of court.
• Mediation: Mediation involves a neutral third party helping spouses reach an agreement on divorce-related issues.
• Negotiation: This is where attorneys for each spouse communicate directly to settle divorce terms.
• Litigation: Usually the most expensive option, litigation involves going to court to have a judge make decisions on contested issues.

Other factors influencing divorce costs in Maryland include whether the divorce is contested or uncontested:
• Contested divorce cases involve disputes between both parties over one or more key issues, such as asset division, child custody or alimony. These cases may require court intervention to resolve.
• Uncontested divorce cases occur when both parties agree on all major issues. This allows for a smoother, often faster divorce timeline without the need for a lengthy court process.

The complexity of issues surrounding the divorce, such as businesses, significant assets or debts, and child custody issues, can also impact the cost.

To start the divorce process in Maryland, you must file a Complaint for Divorce in the circuit court in the county where you or your spouse lives. This complaint should outline the grounds for divorce and any additional relief being sought. The process then involves serving divorce papers to the other spouse and, depending on your case, potentially mediation and court hearings.

The timeline for a divorce in Maryland can range from a few months for an uncontested divorce to over a year for contested cases that require court intervention. Factors affecting the duration include the complexity of the divorce, whether issues like property division and child custody are disputed, and the court’s schedule.

Client testimonials

My attorney was the best choice I made in a very contentious divorce

“Choosing Sarah Zimmerman as my divorce attorney was the best choice I made in the course of a very contentious divorce. The final agreement she crafted with her excellent junior lawyer will protect me and my children’s interests for the foreseeable future, and knowing Sarah now, probably beyond. She could only do this by keenly grasping the other side, anticipating every maneuver, and above all being creative and tenacious in providing me with the best possible representation. I could not recommend her more highly.”

I highly recommend him to anyone

“Jonathan Dana acted as my attorney in my divorce. He was always responsive to my questions and anxieties and very professional in his demeanor. He inspired confidence, and his exceptional skills were essential in resolving the legal ending of the marriage. I would highly recommend him to anyone.”

Very happy to have her in my corner

“Jennifer Davison is an amazing attorney. She is an expert in family law and has an outstanding understanding of the emotional impact that so often accompanies the divorce process. Not only is she super smart and a wonderful advocate but she is also kind, funny and down to earth. I was very happy to have her in my corner.”

Cool and composed when emotions fly high

“Marina [Barannik] was calm, composed and results-focused in a case high on emotions. This trait, in addition to her legal competence, was important not only in resolving the legal matter of multiple revisions of child support and separation agreements, but also in dealing with an unpredictable and often irrational opponent. Marina has the ability to calm things down while at the same time being clear, resolute and assertive.”

Great attorney for high-conflict divorce

“I went through a very high-conflict divorce and Katherine O’Rourke was my council. Having no prior experience with the legal system or navigating through a hostile separation, it was critical to secure an attorney who understood how my spouse could try to manipulate the legal system. I interviewed a number of potential attorneys. However, I chose Ms. O’Rourke because she was not only smart but also ethical. I mention the latter because despite being challenged by an unethical opposing counsel, Ms. O’Rourke always remained calm with a remarkable level of integrity. She encouraged me to focus on the concrete things that mattered most, like my emotional and physical safety, instead of spending unnecessary money to fight over personal property that could be replaced. Our team continually took the high road in court and unsurprisingly the judge was an excellent surveyor of human nature and saw my ex and opposing counsel for who they really are. I would highly recommend Ms. O’Rourke’s counsel to anyone who is in need of a sharp, resilient divorce attorney.”

Get in touch

Having trouble with this form? Please email us directly at info@tuckerfamilylaw.com.