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.


 

Child Custody Laws text engraved on wooden blocks with gavel background. Child custody concept

What Maryland’s New Child Custody Legislation Means For Your Case

The new Maryland child custody legislation, primarily House Bill 1191 (now codified as Family Law § 9-201 and § 9-202), went into effect on October 1, 2025, has a significant impact on custody cases. Specifically, the new law formalizes the “… Read More
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Categories: Custody
Divorce, rings and signature on paperwork for a lawyer, register wedding or writing on a contract. Table, closeup and a certificate, planning or legal documrnts for a commitment or engagement

Prenuptial Agreements in Maryland: Modern Considerations for Newly Engaged Couples

Although many people traditionally viewed prenuptial agreements as a tool for the wealthy, they are no longer simply for those who are of high net-worth. These contracts are for any couple who wishes to protect the assets they bring into the marriage… Read More
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Divorce Settlement with Cash and Gavel, Financial Legal Dispute Concept

Alimony in Maryland: Understanding Rehabilitative vs. Permanent Support

In Maryland, there are two types of alimony that can be awarded post-divorce: rehabilitative alimony and indefinite alimony, often referred to as permanent support. These payments are meant to help ensure the lower-earning spouse has the resources he… Read More
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Categories: Alimony
Pediatrician talking to mother and little girl in exam room

Do Non-Custodial Parents Have Rights to Their Children’s Medical and Educational Records?

If you are the non-custodial parent, you may be wondering what your rights are when it comes to your child’s medical and educational records. Even if you do not live with your child or share legal custody, you still have a right to be informed abou… Read More
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Categories: Custody
Husband and Wife Judge's Gavel and Wedding Rings with Contested and Consensual Divorce Text

How the Recent Changes to Maryland Divorce Law Impact Divorce in 2026

In the past few years, there have been several changes to divorce law in Maryland that impact proceedings in 2026. These recent reforms are meant to streamline the legal framework of divorce and make the process more accessible, efficient, and less c… Read More
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Categories: Divorce
I am getting a divorce!

Maryland Divorce is Faster: Six-Month Separation and “Irreconcilable Differences” Grounds

Effective October 1, 2023, Maryland streamlined its divorce process by eliminating fault-based grounds for divorce. Instead, those filing for divorce now have three no-fault options to choose from. The aim of this legislative reform was to simplify a… Read More
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Categories: Divorce
Sad wife after divorce lamenting

What is the Process of Negotiating a Divorce Settlement with a Divorce Attorney?

Key Takeaways Negotiation can offer a cost-effective, efficient, and less contentious way to divorce. The negotiation process typically involves a series of offers and counter-offers until an agreement is reached. Once the divorce settlement agreemen… Read More
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Categories: Divorce
Mother and her child, visual concept for a family law blog that discusses the difference between co parenting vs parallel parenting.

What’s the Difference Between Co-Parenting and Parallel Parenting?

After a divorce or separation, you may be wondering how you will share parenting responsibilities with your former spouse or partner. Co-parenting and parallel parenting are two distinct shared parenting methods that can allow you and your ex to both… Read More
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Categories: Co-Parenting, Divorce
Introducing your child to your new partner. All together in hotel lobby.

Introducing a New Significant Other to Your Children

After you divorce or separate from your ex, you may be wondering how to introduce your kids to a new partner. Children often feel a wide range of complex emotions when their parents start dating new people, and it’s crucial to ensure you handle the… Read More
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A young girl cuddles with her mother on the living room sofa at home. Visual concept for a blog discussing how a co-parenting app centralizes communication, keeping the child out of parental conflict.

Benefits of Using a Co-Parenting App

From making joint decisions, coordinating schedules, and communicating effectively, co-parenting can be an emotional and logistical challenge. However, there are a number of co-parenting apps that are available to help co-parents manage communication… Read More
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