Joint Custody Lawyer St Marys County — Protecting Your Parental Rights
If you are seeking a joint custody arrangement in St. Mary’s County, Maryland, you need a lawyer who understands the local court’s focus on the child’s best interests. Under Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 9-101, custody decisions are based on multiple factors, not a presumption for either parent. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Understanding Joint Custody in Maryland Law
In Maryland, “joint custody” typically refers to both parents sharing significant decision-making responsibilities (joint legal custody) and/or parenting time (joint physical custody). The court’s primary standard is the “best interests of the child,” as outlined in Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 9-101. There is no automatic preference for mothers or fathers. The statute requires judges to consider all relevant factors, including each parent’s fitness, character, and ability to maintain the child’s stability, as well as the child’s own reasonable preference.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings deep, multi-state experience to family law cases. We understand that a shared custody arrangement requires careful legal planning to protect your relationship with your child.
Local Court Process for Custody in St. Mary’s County
Custody cases in St. Mary’s County are heard at the District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County located at 23110 Leonard Hall Drive, Leonardtown. The court frequently orders parents to attend a mandatory parenting seminar and may refer cases to mediation to attempt a negotiated agreement on a shared custody arrangement.
- File a Complaint: The custody action begins by filing a Complaint for Custody or including custody requests in a divorce filing at the courthouse.
- Attend Mandatory Seminar: All parties in a case involving minor children must complete a court-approved parenting education program.
- Participate in Mediation: The court often orders mediation to help parents reach an agreement on custody and visitation schedules.
- Exchange Financials: Complete and exchange financial statements, as child support is typically decided alongside custody.
- Attend Hearings: If an agreement isn’t reached, the court will hold hearings, which may include a custody evaluation, before issuing a final order.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Custody Case
Our approach combines legal knowledge with an understanding of local court procedures. We know that achieving a workable joint legal and physical custody arrangement often requires both assertive advocacy and strategic negotiation. Our team includes attorneys like Mr. Sris, who brings decades of litigation experience and a background that provides an advantage in complex family matters.
Case Results & Client Focus
While every case is unique, our firm-wide record demonstrates our commitment to client outcomes. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93% across our practice areas. In family law, we work to secure parenting arrangements that serve our clients’ children’s long-term well-being.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Joint Custody Lawyer Near St. Mary’s County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout St. Mary’s County, including Leonardtown, Lexington Park, California, Great Mills, Hollywood, and Mechanicsville. We are accessible via major routes like Route 5 and Route 235.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Joint Custody in St. Mary’s County
Does Maryland favor mothers in custody cases?
No. Maryland law explicitly prohibits a preference based on the parent’s gender. The court uses a “best interests of the child” standard, evaluating factors like each parent’s fitness, character, and ability to provide stability.
How is child support calculated in a joint custody arrangement?
It depends on the parents’ combined adjusted income and the custody schedule. Maryland uses an income shares model (Family Law Art. § 12-202). The basic support obligation is adjusted based on the percentage of overnight stays each parent has, which affects the shared custody arrangement’s financial aspects.
Can I get joint custody if the other parent disagrees?
Yes. If parents cannot agree, either can file a custody action asking the court to decide. The judge will hear evidence and determine if a joint legal and physical custody arrangement serves the child’s best interests, even over one parent’s objection.
What is the difference between legal and physical custody?
Joint legal custody means both parents share major decision-making for the child (education, health, religion). Joint physical custody refers to the child spending significant, roughly equal time with each parent. A parent can have one type of custody without the other.
How long does a custody case take in St. Mary’s County?
An uncontested case with an agreement can be resolved in a few months. A contested case requiring hearings, and possibly a custody evaluation, can take 6 to 18 months or longer, depending on court scheduling and case complexity.
For dedicated representation from a joint custody lawyer St Marys County families trust, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. We are ready to discuss your case and help you pursue a parenting plan that protects your rights and your child’s future.
Related Practice Areas: Criminal Defense Lawyer St. Mary’s County | DUI/DWI Lawyer St. Mary’s County
Also Serving: Family Lawyer Montgomery County | Family Lawyer Prince George’s County
Learn More: Maryland Family Law Lawyer
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.