Experienced Rockville Child Custody Attorney

Effective Child Custody Guidance in Rockville, MD

Navigating the complexities of child custody disputes requires a dedicated legal team that comprehends the nuances of Maryland family law. At McGann Hughes Gratz, our experienced attorneys offer compassionate and strategic guidance to protect your parental rights. When facing the challenges of child custody disputes, having a knowledgeable Rockville child custody lawyer by your side is essential.

Call McGann Hughes Gratz today at (301) 658-2494 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our child custody attorney in Rockville!

How Is Child Custody Decided in Maryland?

As of October 1, 2025, there are statutory factors for the Court to consider when determining which legal and physical custody arrangement is in the best interest of a child.  The majority of these factors have historically been considered pursuant to caselaw precedent, however, the legislature has now (1) clarified the factors and (2) imposed a duty on the judge considering the best interest of a child to articulate the consideration of these factors in his/her ruling.

Pursuant to MD Code, Family Law 9-201, the following are relevant factors for determining child custody and visitation:

1) stability and the foreseeable health and welfare of the child;

(2) frequent, regular, and continuing contact with parents who can act in the child's best interest;

(3) whether and how parents who do not live together will share the rights and responsibilities of raising the child;

(4) the child's relationship with each parent, any siblings, other relatives, and individuals who are or may become important in the child's life;

(5) the child's physical and emotional security and protection from exposure to conflict and violence;

(6) the child's developmental needs, including physical safety, emotional security, positive self-image, interpersonal skills, and intellectual and cognitive growth;

(7) the day-to-day needs of the child, including education, socialization, culture and religion, food, shelter, clothing, and mental and physical health;

(8) how to:

(i) place the child's needs above the parents' needs;

(ii) protect the child from the negative effects of any conflict between the parents; and

(iii) maintain the child's relationship with the parents, siblings, other relatives, or other individuals who have or likely may have a significant relationship with the child;

(9) the age of the child;

(10) any military deployment of a parent and its effect, if any, on the parent-child relationship;

(11) any prior court orders or agreements;

(12) each parent's role and tasks related to the child and how, if at all, those roles and tasks have changed;

(13) the location of each parent's home as it relates to the parent's ability to coordinate parenting time, school, and activities;

(14) the parents' relationship with each other, including:

(i) how they communicate with each other;

(ii) whether they can co-parent without disrupting the child's social and school life; and

(iii) how the parents will resolve any disputes in the future without the need for court intervention;

(15) the child's preference, if age-appropriate; and

(16) any other factor that the court considers appropriate in determining how best to serve the physical, developmental, and emotional needs of the child.

What Are the Different Types of Custody in Maryland?

Maryland recognizes two main types of custody:

• Legal Custody: This pertains to the authority to make decisions regarding the child's upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Legal custody can be joint, where both parents share decision-making responsibilities, or sole, where one parent has the authority.
• Physical Custody: Physical custody can also be joint, where the child spends substantial time with both parents, or sole, where the child primarily resides with one parent.

A combination of these custody arrangements is often determined to meet the child's needs best. Our experienced attorneys at McGann Hughes Gratz work diligently to help parents navigate these options and advocate for custody arrangements that align with their children's best interests.

What Makes a Parent Unfit?

The court may deem a parent unfit if there is evidence of behaviors or circumstances that could harm the child. Various factors that may lead to a parent being considered unfit include:

• Substance Abuse: Ongoing substance abuse issues, such as alcohol or drug addiction, can impact a parent's fitness.
• Domestic Violence: Domestic violence may be a significant factor in determining parental fitness.
• Neglect or Abuse: Evidence of neglect or abuse towards the child can result in a parent being deemed unfit.
• Mental Health Issues: Serious untreated mental health issues that impede a parent's ability to provide a safe and stable environment may be considered.
• Criminal Activity: Involvement in criminal activities threatening the child's well-being can impact parental fitness.

Get Help from Our Rockville Child Custody Lawyers

In child custody matters, securing legal representation is crucial to safeguard your parental rights and ensure the best possible outcome for your child. At McGann Hughes Gratz, we understand the intricacies of Maryland family law and are committed to providing you with the support and advocacy you need during these challenging times. Our experienced Rockville child custody lawyers are dedicated to crafting personalized legal strategies tailored to your unique situation. Contact us today and take the first step toward a resolution prioritizing your child's well-being.

Contact McGann Hughes Gratz today to meet with our child custody lawyer in Rockville!