Divorce and Family Law

Family law is an area of the law that generally deals with family-related and domestic issues such as marriage, civil unions, divorce, spousal abuse, property, spousal support, child custody and visitation, child support, as well as child abuse issues, and adoption.

Separation/Divorce

Today, separation and/or divorce is a more complicated process than ever before. Because the law is so complex and ever changing, it is important to seek legal advice immediately when any questions about separation, divorce or child access issues arise. Keep in mind that laws differ dramatically by state. Maryland has a specific set of statutes that govern the process for separation and divorce. Navigating these waters on your own can be costly, and we're not only talking about money. We take great care in assisting our clients in returning to a sense of normalcy as quickly as possible and in a manner that takes the importance of quality of life into account and one's desire to move forward in a productive and positive fashion. While money is important, wouldn't you agree that peace of mind is often priceless? We can help.

Family law issues are highly emotional and often we see otherwise good people at their very worst. Mike Mastracci has personally lived through such times and really knows how you feel. Being a superior Family law lawyer is about far more than providing good legal advice; practical experience and knowledge of suitable resources can go along way in helping you during these difficult times.

Especially when children are involved, it's imperative that you know your rights and the rights of your spouse. During our initial consultation Family Law attorney, Mike Mastracci, will walk through the process with you so you'll know what to expect moving forward. You should never make any life-changing decisions before first consulting and securing a lawyer.

Gay and Lesbian Couples - Civil Marriage

Summary of Question 6: Referendum By Petition
Statutory Enactment Petitioned to Statewide Referendum - Civil Marriage Protection Act
Chapter 2 of 2012 (House Bill 438)

By virtue of the 2012 election, in January of 2013 the Civil Marriage Protection Act went into effect and allowed gay and lesbian couples to obtain a civil marriage license. The following language was on the ballot and is now the law in Maryland: "This Act amends current law to allow gay and lesbian couples to obtain a civil marriage license. Other prohibitions and age restrictions relating to who may marry remain in place. The Act also provides religious protections. Religious entities retain exclusive control over their own theological doctrines, policy teachings, and beliefs regarding who may marry within that faith. No official of a religious order or body authorized to perform a marriage ceremony may be required to celebrate or officiate any particular marriage or religious rite of marriage in violation of the right to free exercise of religion as guaranteed by the U.S. and Maryland Constitutions, and may not be subject to any fines or other penalties for the failure or refusal to do so... The Act does not affect existing laws prohibiting discrimination in employment, housing, or public accommodations on the basis of sexual orientation."

Domestic Violence

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, it has been reported that every 15 seconds a woman is beaten in a domestic dispute somewhere in the United States. Domestic violence, abuse, assault and battery are all crimes that should not be treated lightly. If you are being battered by your spouse or partner, you can seek legal protection, even prosecution, whether you are married to your abuser or not. We can assist you in preserving your safety and your dignity.

Child Custody and Visitation

Custody and visitation litigation should generally be an absolute last resort. People are often disappointed when reality sets in and they realize that it will never be "over" as long as both the parents are alive. Additionally, many studies have shown that often parents that do not get along well before custody litigation actually get along even worse after the initial judicial decision. Matters often escalate because of the win-lose settings that litigation creates and fosters.

Here at the Law Offices of Michael Mastracci, we work with you and your partner to first attempt to settle all matters out of court, to come to an amiable agreement that both side can live with and that is in the best interest of your children. When out of court settlements are unattainable, we fight to win, but with your children's best interest being of paramount concern.