The Law Office of Lauri M. Moylan Moylan Family Law 2026-06-10T10:16:13Z https://www.towsonfamilylawattorney.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1605299/2026/01/cropped-moylanSiteicon-32x32.png On Behalf of Moylan Family Law <![CDATA[How to protect your assets from divorce without a prenup]]> https://www.towsonfamilylawattorney.com/?p=249528 2026-06-10T10:16:13Z 2026-06-10T10:16:13Z Preserve separate property and document ownership Not every asset you own automatically becomes part of the marital assets in a divorce. Under Maryland law, property acquired during a marriage generally falls within the definition of marital property. Property obtained before the marriage, received through inheritance or given by a third party often remains separate. Since ownership history matters, several actions can help create a clearer record:
  • Keep separate accounts: Avoid placing inherited funds or premarital savings into joint accounts. Mixed funds can make ownership harder to prove.
  • Maintain detailed records: Keep bank statements and account histories. These documents can show where the property came from and when you acquired it.
  • Consider a trust: A properly structured trust can separate specific holdings from jointly owned resources. The terms and funding history still matter.
  • Avoid using separate funds for shared obligations: Using your inherited money to pay shared debts or property costs can blur the line between separate and marital finances.
  • Explore a postnuptial agreement: You can use this type of agreement to define how the parties will treat certain property if the relationship ends.
These steps create a clearer paper trail for tracing separate property. They help show whether a specific property should remain separate rather than be included among the assets the court reviews.

Planning early can reduce future disputes

Ownership questions often become harder when separate and marital property have been commingled. Early organization of records can make those issues easier to address if disagreements arise. However, documentation alone does not determine the outcome. Every family’s circumstances differ. Hence, the right approach depends on the property involved and its history. Legal guidance can help you review documents and available options before any major decisions.]]> On Behalf of Moylan Family Law <![CDATA[Does a criminal record affect your custody rights in Maryland?]]> https://www.towsonfamilylawattorney.com/?p=249510 2026-05-14T08:31:39Z 2026-05-14T08:31:39Z A criminal record's role in custody decisions Maryland family courts center on the child's well-being and interests in every custody determination. A conviction does not mean you will lose custody, but the court will examine what the offense involved, when it occurred and whether it reflects a pattern of behavior. Judges also consider whether the conduct poses any current risk to the child's physical or emotional safety.

Offenses that can influence your case

The following categories of offenses tend to raise more concern for Maryland judges:
  • Domestic violence or protective order violations
  • Drug or alcohol charges, including DUI
  • Child abuse or neglect
  • Sex offenses
  • A pattern of repeated offenses, regardless of how severe
Even when one of these offenses appears on your record, the court may still grant restricted shared custody, or, in more severe cases, mandate supervised visitation to ensure the child's safety.

Options to mitigate your record's impact

If you have completed probation, attended counseling or substance abuse treatment, or maintained a clean record since your conviction, those efforts can work in your favor. Demonstrating that you have taken concrete steps to address the underlying issues reflects a commitment to your child's safety and stability. Expungement may also be an option depending on the nature of your offense. Maryland law allows certain convictions, such as disorderly conduct or misdemeanor theft, to be expunged from your record, which could remove the conviction from consideration in a custody proceeding.

Preparation before a custody hearing

Walking into a custody hearing with a criminal record can feel daunting, but solid preparation can make a real difference. Gathering evidence of your rehabilitation, stable housing and active role in your child's life gives the court something tangible to weigh alongside your record. It also helps to anticipate what the other parent may raise during the hearing. If your criminal history is likely to come up, addressing it directly and honestly can show accountability rather than avoidance. Consulting an attorney can help you understand what Maryland judges look for in a custody case. That knowledge can help you present a picture of who you are today rather than letting your past define the outcome.]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Lauri M. Moylan <![CDATA[Who gets the art and jewelry in divorce?]]> https://www.towsonfamilylawattorney.com/?p=249457 2026-04-17T16:02:06Z 2026-04-17T16:02:06Z Why some assets are harder to divide Not all property fits into a simple or direct division process. Some assets need closer review before any decisions move forward, especially when their value or ownership is not immediately clear. Several factors make these assets more difficult to address:
  • Values depend on appraisals rather than fixed numbers
  • Market conditions change over time
  • Ownership may remain unclear, especially with gifts or inherited items
  • Emotional attachment influences how each party views the asset
  • Some items are easier to overlook or undervalue
Together, these factors can turn a single item into a point of dispute. What seems minor at first may become more important as both sides take a closer look and weigh both financial and personal value.

How valuation may work in these cases

Courts often rely on professional appraisers to determine the value of unique assets because these items do not have a set price. An appraiser reviews the condition of the item, its history and current market demand to estimate what a buyer might reasonably pay. In some cases, each side presents a different appraisal, which creates a gap in value that both sides must address. In many cases, the focus stays on fair market value rather than the original purchase price, so current resale value often matters more. Questions about whether an item counts as shared property may also affect how both sides approach valuation. Supporting records such as receipts, certificates of authenticity and prior appraisals can help establish value, while limited documentation may lead to longer discussions as both sides work toward a reasonable estimate.

Ways these assets may be divided

Because these items cannot be split physically, courts and parties often look for practical ways to divide them while keeping the overall distribution balanced. Common approaches include:
  • One person keeps the asset while the other receives property of similar value
  • The item is sold and the proceeds are divided between both parties
  • A collection is divided across both sides based on estimated value
At times, both sides reach an agreement based on personal preference. One person may place higher value on a specific item, while the other may prefer financial assets in return, which can help resolve the issue without further dispute.

What this may mean for your case

Art, jewelry and collectibles may represent only part of the total estate, but they can still affect how a case moves forward. Disputes over value or ownership may extend timelines or influence settlement discussions, especially when both sides view the asset differently. These items also carry personal meaning that goes beyond financial value, which can make decisions more difficult even when the numbers appear straightforward. If you expect these types of assets to be part of your case, learning how courts and parties handle them can help you prepare for the process ahead and make more informed decisions.]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Lauri M. Moylan <![CDATA[Can you change a divorce settlement years later?]]> https://www.towsonfamilylawattorney.com/?p=249458 2026-03-05T07:38:08Z 2026-03-05T07:38:08Z Custody or child support circumstances change Courts can change custody or child support when something important in your child’s life or your financial situation changes. A major income shift, a move that affects parenting time or new medical or school needs may give the court a reason to update the order.

The alimony order allows modification

Alimony can change later if the divorce order allows it. Some support orders stay open to change because financial situations can shift over time. Retirement, illness or a significant drop in income may give the court a reason to review the amount. If the order says alimony cannot be modified, the court will usually keep the terms as written.

Hidden assets or fraud come to light

A court may revisit a divorce settlement if one spouse hid money or property during the divorce. Divorce requires both people to share full financial information, including bank accounts, investments and business interests. If someone kept assets secret or gave false financial details, the agreement may rest on incomplete information. When clear proof shows that happened, the court may step in and address the problem even years later.

Find out if your situation qualifies for a review.

If something about your divorce settlement no longer adds up, start by looking at which part of the order concerns you and what has changed since the divorce. Some terms stay final, while others may change in the right circumstances. A conversation with a family law attorney can help you understand whether your situation fits one of the limited paths.]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Lauri M. Moylan <![CDATA[3 financial mistakes high earners make in divorce]]> https://www.towsonfamilylawattorney.com/?p=249459 2026-01-30T14:53:49Z 2026-01-30T14:53:49Z After working hard to build significant income and assets, you might assume that the success you have earned will carry over into your divorce. However, that kind of assumption can lead to costly mistakes. Maryland’s divorce law favors preparation and credibility over money. Knowing where professionals stumble can help protect what you have built.

Mistake 1: Assuming income guarantees leverage

High income does not automatically give you control in a Maryland divorce. Maryland follows equitable distribution. Judges divide marital property fairly, not always 50/50, after classifying and valuing it. Your income affects alimony, child support and monetary awards. Maryland courts look at marital lifestyle to determine spousal support, make decisions on dissipation claims or to gauge a spouse’s financial credibility. They may also review earning capacity and ability to pay. A strong salary can increase support awards and trigger closer review of spending habits. If you assume income protects you, you may miss early opportunities to shape the proceeding’s outcome in your favor.

Mistake 2: Treating complex compensation as simple income

You may misjudge how courts view compensation. Executive pay rarely fits into a simple box. In Maryland, the key question is whether compensation is marital or nonmarital and what portion ties to marital effort. Certain forms of pay may receive close attention. Labels do not control the outcome. The timing of the compensation, the purpose of the payment and the degree of marital effort matter more. Maryland judges may examine:
  • Performance bonuses earned during the marriage
  • Deferred compensation tied to marital work
  • Stock options or RSUs that vest later
  • Business income mixed with personal expenses
You may also underestimate the tax impact of these assets as a high earner. RSU withholding, option timing, bonus dates and pass-through entity taxes can change the actual value of a settlement. Even without giving tax advice, after-tax value often drives settlement fairness. Early clarity can reduce disputes and cost.

Mistake 3: Waiting too long to define the financial narrative

Delays may weaken your position. Courts and opposing counsel form impressions early. If you wait to organize records or explain financial decisions, you lose control of the story. Because Maryland courts commonly require sworn financial statements and robust documentation, any gaps or inconsistencies can affect your credibility. Relying on informal agreements can also backfire. Early expectations shape negotiations and court decisions.

Winning requires more than earning power

As a high earner, you will succeed when you act with strategy. Understanding how Maryland courts view income and assets matters more than raw numbers. Strong outcomes come from early planning. Legal support can help you protect your future by managing the process.]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Lauri M. Moylan <![CDATA[The role of valuations in Maryland high-asset divorces]]> https://www.towsonfamilylawattorney.com/?p=249460 2026-01-08T04:42:58Z 2026-01-08T04:42:58Z Influence on asset division in Maryland high-asset divorces Maryland uses equitable distribution. You do not start from a fixed split. The court focuses on fairness after it sorts property into marital and nonmarital categories and sets a value for the marital share. Valuation helps you compare options. You may keep an asset that does not divide easily, then discuss an offset through other property or money. Maryland also allows the court to consider marital debts as part of the overall picture, which can change the figures you work from.

Application to complex marital property

High-asset divorce cases often include property without a public market. Your review may involve items such as:
  • Closely held companies: Limited sales history may affect comparison.
  • Investment accounts: Market movement may shift the reported value.
  • Professional practices: Income may depend on personal effort.
  • Real estate: Mixed personal use and rental income may affect the review.
You may reach out to appraisers or financial professionals to estimate value ranges. The court may then use those ranges when it evaluates a monetary award or eligible transfers.

How valuation ranges may shape later decisions

From here, you may look at which assets carry the widest value ranges and which figures could influence near-term decisions. You may also decide whether obtaining clearer numbers would help compare options or frame tradeoffs. That review can guide what financial details deserve attention next.]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Lauri M. Moylan <![CDATA[New year, new path: Preparing for a Maryland divorce]]> https://www.towsonfamilylawattorney.com/?p=249461 2025-12-31T15:19:51Z 2025-12-31T15:19:51Z Divorce resolution list Maryland law recently changed to simplify the divorce process. You can now file for divorce based on six months of separation, mutual consent or irreconcilable differences. To prepare for this transition, consider the following steps:
  • Establish independence: Open individual bank accounts and draft a post-divorce budget to gain clarity on your future finances.
  • Use the parenting plan tool: Download Maryland Form CC-DR-109 to begin outlining custody and visitation arrangements for your children.
  • Audit general records: Collect your pay stubs, marital property deeds, and household debt statements to create a clear financial snapshot.
Organizing these foundational documents now will save you significant time during the legal process. Clear records help ensure your lawyer effectively advocates for your interests.

Strategy for complex marital estates

For households with businesses, professional practices or diverse portfolios, the discovery process requires a more technical approach to achieve an equitable distribution of marital property. You must look beyond basic income to protect your long-term interests and business holdings. Consider these high-level actions:
  • Inventory complex assets: Gather documentation for business interests, stock options, deferred compensation and out-of-state real estate.
  • Trace separate property: Identify assets acquired before the marriage or through inheritance to ensure they remain classified as nonmarital property.
  • Keep an eye on commingling: While assets like inheritances are generally considered nonmarital, they can lose that protection if they are mixed with joint funds, such as depositing an inheritance into a shared savings account. Keeping these assets in separate accounts is the best way to ensure they remain yours.
  • Secure tax documentation: Collect at least three years of joint and business tax returns to identify potential commingled funds.
Detailed documentation of these complicated holdings is vital during the discovery phase of a high net worth divorce. Proper preparation prevents unexpected liabilities and ensures your marital estate is valued accurately.

Taking the first step

Approaching 2026 with an organized plan and a positive mindset is the best strategy for a smooth transition. For estates with complex assets and custody arrangements, having skilled legal guidance is essential to ensure your long-term financial interests and parental rights are fully protected under Maryland law. Investing in a tailored legal strategy now allows you to move forward with confidence and clarity. You deserve a sophisticated approach that reflects your unique goals for the coming year.]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Lauri M. Moylan <![CDATA[Maryland fault vs no-fault divorce: What you need to know]]> https://www.towsonfamilylawattorney.com/?p=49310 2025-09-20T11:49:04Z 2025-09-20T11:49:04Z Grounds and requirements for fault and no-fault divorce in Maryland Maryland once permitted fault divorces based on adultery, cruelty or desertion. In 2023, the state shifted to a no-fault system. In a no-fault system, you do not need to prove wrongdoing by either spouse to request a divorce. Under Maryland law you may select from three no-fault grounds. One ground can be a six-month separation even if you and your spouse live under one roof. Another can be irreconcilable differences. The third may be mutual consent with a signed settlement that addresses property, alimony, custody, support and financial arrangements. Along with choosing a ground, you also need to meet residency rules. Either you or your spouse needs to live in Maryland. If your ground arose outside the state, one of you may need at least six months of Maryland residency before filing for a divorce.

Effects on property, custody and support

No-fault grounds set the filing path, but your conduct can still shape finance and family decisions. To see where behavior and circumstances guide outcomes, consider the following areas:
  • Property division: Uses equitable distribution and weighs your monetary and nonmonetary contributions, the length of the marriage, ages and health, reasons for the breakup and each spouse’s finances
  • Alimony: Evaluates income gap, time to become self-supporting, needs and the fairness impact of marital behavior
  • Child support: Uses state guidelines that consider both incomes, parenting time and allowed expenses
You can improve the strength of your case by gathering pay records, tax returns, asset lists and a parenting plan. This documentation can support a clear presentation of your financial information and parental objectives during discussions or hearings.

What this means for your Maryland divorce decision

Maryland applies three no-fault grounds and has largely removed fault grounds for filing a divorce. Even though you do not need to prove misconduct, your past actions can still influence alimony, child support, property division, custody and other financial outcomes. By understanding these rules, you prepare yourself to make informed choices and approach each stage of the divorce process with greater clarity and control.]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Lauri M. Moylan <![CDATA[New grounds for divorce in Maryland]]> https://www.towsonfamilylawattorney.com/?p=49309 2025-06-23T20:05:08Z 2025-06-23T20:05:08Z The new rules Under the new rules, there are three no-fault grounds for divorce. Fault based divorce no longer exists. Additionally, the time requirement for living apart has been shortened. The three no-fault divorce grounds are:
  • Irreconcilable differences
  • Mutual consent
  • Six-month separation
Irreconcilable differences involve an assertion by one spouse that the marriage is over and there is no reasonable prospect of reconciliation. If both spouses agree that the marriage is over, they can obtain a divorce by mutual consent. This involves drafting and filing a settlement agreement that details the resolution of all divorce issues, such as child custody, alimony, child support and property division. The marital settlement agreement must address all divorce issues and demonstrate that there are no decisions that must be made by the court. The one-year separation period has now been shortened to six months. Spouses can receive a divorce if they can show that they have lived apart for six months. Additionally, the six-month separation period is not required to involve separate households. You and your spouse can continue to reside in the same residence for the six-month period if you can show that you lived separate lives. Ways to show this include providing evidence that you slept in separate bedrooms, had your own separate living spaces or financially separated your lives, such as maintaining separate bank accounts.

Benefits of the new laws

The new laws potentially make divorce easier, quicker and less costly than before. If you are seeking a divorce, you no longer need to prove fault grounds, move out of a home or be separated for an entire year before finalizing your divorce and moving forward with your life. Although the fault-based grounds for divorce are no longer available, if you and your spouse cannot resolve all issues, a court will still consider each spouse’s behavior when deciding certain issues, such as an alimony award from one spouse to another, child custody or marital property division. While the new divorce laws could simplify the process, divorce issues such as child custody and property division can be complex. It is important to know your rights under Maryland divorce laws to receive a fair outcome.]]> On Behalf of The Law Office of Lauri M. Moylan <![CDATA[How do you break the news that you want a divorce?]]> https://www.towsonfamilylawattorney.com/?p=49308 2025-04-15T15:37:46Z 2025-04-08T15:37:00Z marriage dissolution, which could stall any potential settlement, lead to more contentiousness and result in an outcome that’s disadvantageous to your future. Therefore, before breaking the news of divorce to your spouse, you should create a sound game plan. How can you find the best way to tell your spouse that you want a divorce? There’s no one-size fits all approach, unfortunately, so the specific strategy that you utilize will depend on the dynamics of your case, including your spouse’s personality, the reason for your divorce and any other complicating factors that may exist. That said, there are some broader strategies that you might find helpful in your case, so let’s look at some of them here. Although what you say to your spouse when breaking the news of divorce might seem straightforward, you should think through the interaction so that you can do this in a way that protects your interests. Here are some things to think about as you consider taking this first step towards divorce:
  • Make sure you’re ready for divorce: You don’t want to have a serious conversation about divorce if you’re not 100% ready to end your marriage. In an attempt to save your marriage, your spouse might promise to do anything and everything. You have to be convinced that divorce is the next step otherwise you might be convinced to stay in a toxic marriage that’s harmful to your wellbeing.
  • Avoid blaming your spouse: Remember, you and your spouse are going to have to address some heavy legal issues once you initiate the divorce process. If you start your marriage dissolution off by slamming your spouse over things they did wrong during your relationship, then they’re probably going to be hesitant to work with you to find mutually acceptable resolution. This can prove more costly to you and lead to more contentiousness and stress. So, try to stick to how you feel and present a respectful, business-like tone.
  • Be prepared for a reaction: Your spouse might exhibit one or more emotional outbursts to the news. They could get angry, resentful or overcome with depression and grief. You need to be prepared for these emotions so that you can respond appropriately. Also, give your spouse some time so that they can cope with the news and gather themselves before entering the formal process.
  • Practice what you’ll say: You don’t want to slip up and say the wrong thing when you tell your spouse that you want a divorce. The best way to avoid that from happening is to practice your speech and answers to the questions that you anticipate receiving from your spouse. Hopefully then you’ll come across as confident in your decision and the path forward.
There are several issues that you’ll have to address in your divorce, from property division and alimony to child custody and child support. You need a concrete plan in place to address each of them, otherwise you could miss out on key opportunities to secure the post-divorce life that you want. So, now is the time to think about how to tackle the issues you might face in your divorce.]]>