Divorce & Family Law Blogs

Welcome to the Divorce and Family Law Blog from the Law Office of Shelly M. Ingram. Here, our team shares insights, updates, and practical guidance on topics like divorce, child custody, support, and other family law matters in Maryland. Our goal is to help you stay informed and empowered through every step of your legal journey.


 

Close-up of mediator for couple analyzing behavior of spouses. Concept for the question “How does divorce mediation work?”

How Does Divorce Mediation Work? With Compromise and Cooperation.

Divorce mediation is a tool that helps Maryland couples dissolve their marriages peacefully and with respect for one another’s priorities. However, when emotions run high, it can lead you to wonder, “How does divorce mediation work?” The truth… Read More
Read More
Categories: Divorce, Mediation
Word ALIMONY composed of wooden letters. Closeup

How Do I Know If I Will Get Alimony in my Maryland Divorce?

When a couple has been married and lived together for many years, it is not uncommon that one spouse will provide more financial support for the household than the other. When the marriage relationship breaks down, it can be challenging for the finan… Read More
Read More
Categories: Alimony, Divorce
Two golden wedding rings. Concept for the changes to Maryland Divorce Laws.

Changes Are Coming to Maryland Divorce Laws

The way Maryland residents get divorced will change this fall. The state legislature has passed new Maryland divorce laws that eliminate the state’s “limited divorce” procedure, and change the wait-times, as well as the legal grounds parties mu… Read More
Read More
Categories: Divorce, Family Law
Elderly couple stressed over how to handle their pension in a divorce.

Handling Pensions in a Divorce

Your pensions and retirement accounts may be your family’s most valuable asset. Especially if you are a renter or an older adult when your divorce is finalized, you may depend on your retirement accounts to provide for you in your old age, and to e… Read More
Read More
Categories: Divorce
Happy lesbian couple relaxing on sofa in living room, concept for domestic partnership.

Domestic Partnership, Civil Unions, and Property Problems in Maryland

The number of people choosing to live together without going through a formal marriage is rising every year. But non-marriage alternatives like civil unions and domestic partnership are imperfect replacements for a legal marriage. Before you decide t… Read More
Read More
A young girl stands with a teddy bear looking at camera. Concept for Who is A Child Lawyer?

Attorney Appointed for Children in Custody Cases

When conflict is high in a divorce or custody case, sometimes a child’s voice, and even their best interest, can get lost in the debate between parents. In cases of family violence or abuse, or when a child’s special needs require special attenti… Read More
Read More
Categories: Custody
Lawyer and client negotiation in legal judgement consulting. Concept for What is a

What is a "Retainer" and Why Do I Have to Pay It?

When you hire a divorce attorney or family lawyer to represent you, you may be asked to pay a “retainer” before any work is done. Depending on the nature and complexity of your case, this may be several thousand dollars. Understanding what this r… Read More
Read More
Categories: Divorce
Upset couple look away from each other at the beach Concept for Conscious Uncoupling

Collaborative Divorce: A Holistic Approach to Conscious Uncoupling

It is often said that within a divorce there are three unique separations that must each be addressed: (1) legal separation, (2) emotional separation, and (3) financial separation. The Collaborative Divorce model, sometimes called Collaborative Law o… Read More
Read More
Categories: Collaborative, Divorce
Cinematic Court of Law and Justice Trial: Judge Ruling Out a Positive Decision in a Civil Family Case, Close Up of a Striking Gavel to End Hearing. Concept for Prepare for a Divorce Deposition.

How Do I Prepare for a Divorce Deposition?

Testifying under oath can be a stressful experience. For many people, a divorce deposition is the first – sometimes only – time they will be cross examined by an attorney. That’s enough to make anyone nervous. Here are some tips for how to prep… Read More
Read More
Categories: Divorce
Rear-view of five children jumping in the air wearing backpacks. Concept for Spring Break!

Maryland Spring Break Activities for Kids

Spring Break is an opportunity for many parents to connect with their kids and make lasting memories. Whether you are a long-distance parent making the most of school breaks, or a custodial parent looking to break up your everyday routine, these Spri… Read More
Read More