Maryland Family Law Governs the Enforcement of Child Custody Orders

When a couple decides to file for divorce, there are many difficult issues to address and hopefully reconcile in a mutually agreeable manner.  Of the challenging topics to resolve, child custody is often considered the most emotionally charged arrangement to settle. In most cases, both parents hope to spend as much time with their children after the marriage ends, as before.  Under the best case scenario, the parents will agree to the terms in an amicable way.  This serves the best interests of the children and helps to move the process along smoothly.  But there are cases in which one or both parties are unhappy with the ultimate custody order and may seek to challenge or modify the court’s decision.  If you are considering a separation or divorce from your spouse, it is important to understand how the local laws may affect your family’s rights.  The best course of action is to contact an experienced Maryland family law attorney as soon as possible.

This past April, Rutherford petitioned the Obama Administration to return her children to the United States.  The petition, containing more than 118,000 signatures, stated that when her children were five and two years old, respectively, a California judge forced them to live in France with their father, despite the fact that the children’s court-appointed counsel said that they should stay in the U.S. The petition further disputed the father’s assertions that he was ever denied entry to this country. According to another news article, in a turn of events, a Los Angeles court recently confirmed its continuing jurisdiction over the custody issue and ruled that the children be brought back to the U.S. The court essentially granted Rutherford temporary sole custody of the children. She had argued that her ex-husband was refusing to allow her to see the children in accordance with the custody order. There is some speculation as to whether the father will heed the order and bring the children back for the next court hearing on June 15.  It will be interesting to see how the court ultimately rules in this case.

If one parent fails to comply with a custody order in Maryland, courts would have the authority to enforce the order. Under Maryland law, once a court prepares a custody order or signs off on an arrangement stipulated to by the parties, the order has the full force of the law. Any unjustifiable denial or interference with court-ordered custody could result in the court ordering make-up time or modification of the existing order to ensure future compliance.  The court can also assess attorney’s fees and costs against the offending party.

Maryland courts are guided by state law when making child custody determinations.  Parties to these disputes are encouraged to know and understand their rights under these local laws. Anthony A. Fatemi is a Maryland family law attorney with experience representing parties in divorce and related child custody matters.  For representation and legal guidance, you can contact Mr. Fatemi at (888) 519-2801 or (301) 519-2801.

Related Blog Posts:

Maryland Court Addresses Immigration Status of Child in Divorce and Custody Proceeding

Maryland Court Affirms Decision Denying Parent Visitation in Child Custody Dispute

Maryland Governor O’Malley Establishes Commission on Child Custody Decision Making