Custody is More Than Just a Legal Matter. It's About Your Child's Future.

In Maryland, custody comes down to two things: who makes the decisions, and where your child lives. That’s legal and physical custody. Simple in definition. Complex in reality.

You and your co-parent can reach an agreement through negotiation or mediation. If not, the court steps in guided by one question: What’s best for your child?

We bring strategy, stability, and a deep understanding of what’s at stake. Our job is to guide you through every step with clarity, compassion, and a plan built around your child’s well-being.

Your Child Deserves Stability. You Deserve Peace of Mind.

Let’s create a plan that supports both. One conversation can change the course of what comes next. Call now to schedule your Initial Consultation.

FAQ

Often, sole custody isn’t awarded through the courts unless the other parent is deemed unfit. Situations like neglect, alcohol, or drug dependency may deem a parent unsuitable for joint custody situations. It’s important to remember that sole custody doesn’t mean the other parent can’t receive visitation. Even with a sole custody arrangement, the noncustodial parent may enjoy a generous child visitation schedule.

Joint custody may include physical or legal custody. Joint legal custody means that parents are able to mutually make major decisions together for the benefit of their minor children. Joint or shared physical custody means that the children share significant time with each parent.

Joint physical custody arrangements may include alternating weeks between each parent’s home, along with independent schedules for weekends, holidays, and summer break. Joint custody aims to have contact and involvement for both parents in the child’s life.

Child support is financial assistance to cover food, shelter, and necessary items relating to the child. Generally, the court awards support in monthly installments to the parent with primary custody. Although independent agreements can be made, child support is primarily calculated based on how much time the children share with each parent, each parent’s income, the costs of work-related childcare expenses, health insurance premiums including vision and dental, and other expenses related to the children.

HERE’S A QUICK SUMMARY

Blattner Family Law Group believes that your time with your children is priceless. We’ll fight to protect it, with a custody plan that puts your family first.

1

There are two types of custody to consider.

Custody is more than just legal jargon. It’s your right to guide your child’s life, and to be there every day. Decision-making is legal custody. Daily life is physical custody. You can share either. Or fight for both.
We’re here to help you do what’s best.

2

Courts prioritize your child’s best interests.

What the court sees as “best” might not reflect your child’s unique needs or your family’s reality. Your story deserves more than a one-size-fits-all outcome. We make sure your case is presented clearly and persuasively—so the court sees what truly matters.

3

Your Child Deserves More Than Just a Schedule

Parenting time isn’t about convenience. It’s about what’s right for your child. A reasonable schedule. Healthy communication. True co-parenting. We help you build a plan that puts your child’s needs at the center, where they belong.

Protect Tomorrow by Planning Today.

Your child’s future deserves more than guesswork. We’re here to help you move forward with clarity, compassion, and a strategy that works. Get your free Initial Consultation

Get Your FREE Consultation