La Plata Divorce & Family Lawyer

Divorce

Whether your divorce is uncontested or contested, amicable or high-conflict, we’ll help you understand your rights and obligations. We handle every aspect of divorce, including property division, spousal support (alimony), and post-divorce modifications.

Child Custody and Visitation

Nothing is more important than your children. We advocate for parenting arrangements that are in the best interests of the child while respecting your role as a parent. Whether you’re seeking sole custody, joint custody, or need to resolve a visitation issue, we’re here to help.

Child Support

Maryland’s child support guidelines can be complex. We’ll explain how support is calculated and ensure your financial obligations or entitlements are fair and accurate.

Spousal Support/Alimony

We help clients pursue or defend against claims for temporary, rehabilitative, or indefinite alimony, always striving for a result that is financially reasonable and sustainable.

Marital Property Division

Dividing assets and debts during divorce can be contentious. We assist clients in identifying marital and non-marital property, valuing assets, and ensuring an equitable distribution.

Separation Agreements

We draft, review, and negotiate separation agreements that resolve key issues while avoiding costly litigation and setting the stage for a more amicable divorce.
Modifications and Enforcement
Life changes, and sometimes court orders need to change too. We help clients modify existing custody, support, or alimony orders, and we take action when an order is not being followed.

Other Practice Areas

Our clients come to us during what is often a difficult time in their lives, and many return whenever another legal issue arises, trusting we will apply the same care, diligence and expertise to their other legal matters. Fanning Law is skilled and experienced in helping new and existing clients in a range of legal areas outside of the family law arena, including:

• Personal Injury
• Criminal Defense
• Wills & Trusts
• Business Law
• Employment Law
• General Civil Litigation

Contact us to discuss your legal needs and find out how we can help.

Local Knowledge. Personalized Care.

We’re not just another law firm; we’re part of the La Plata community — a community we cherish reaching out to and giving back to. With decades of experience in Charles County courts, attorney William C. Fanning, Jr. brings a local perspective that out-of-town lawyers simply can’t match. He knows the procedures, personalities, and preferences that can make a difference in your case.

At the same time, we never lose sight of the fact that every family is different. We take the time to get to know you and understand what matters most to you. We believe that effective representation starts with listening, and we build lasting relationships based on trust, integrity, and mutual respect.

Why Clients Choose Fanning Law

• Over 30 Years of Family Law Experience
• Deep Roots in La Plata and Charles County
• Personalized Attention to Every Case
• Compassionate Counsel During Emotional Times
• Effective Representation in and out of Court

We know how stressful and overwhelming family law matters can be. That’s why we are committed to making the process as smooth as possible for you. We explain your options in plain English, keep you informed at every stage, and provide the legal support you need to make confident decisions about your future.

Meet Attorney William C. Fanning, Jr.

For more than three decades, attorney William C. Fanning, Jr. has built a reputation for excellence in family law throughout Southern Maryland. His legal career is marked by skillful advocacy, deep legal knowledge, and a genuine passion for helping people through difficult times. Clients appreciate his calm demeanor, strategic mindset, and unwavering commitment to their best interests.

Bill Fanning knows that family law isn’t just about winning cases—it’s about making sure your voice is heard and your rights are protected. Whether you’re going through a divorce, fighting for custody, or trying to resolve a support dispute, he’ll stand by your side from beginning to end.

La Plata Family Law FAQs

Answers to Your Questions About Divorce, Custody, Support & More in Maryland

Family law matters often come with many questions and concerns. Whether you’re considering divorce, seeking custody of your children, or working through financial matters like spousal support and property distribution, understanding your rights and options is key to protecting your future. At Fanning Law, we’re here to provide the answers and guidance you need.

Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we hear about family law in Maryland. For answers to other questions and advice tailored to your specific situation, contact our office to speak with a knowledgeable and experienced La Plata family law attorney.

What is the difference between absolute divorce and limited divorce in Maryland?

Since 2023, Maryland no longer offers limited divorce as an option.

Absolute divorce is the legal termination of a marriage. Once granted, the parties are free to remarry, and the court can resolve all issues related to custody, child support, alimony, and division of marital property.

Prior to October 1, 2023, limited divorce was an option for parties, however this option did not end the marriage. It was similar to a legal separation and allowed the court to issue orders regarding child custody, support, alimony, and use of property while the spouses live apart. A limited divorce was appropriate when the parties needed court intervention but didn’t yet meet the grounds for absolute divorce or were not ready to end the marriage permanently.

Some individuals may still only be in that category of divorce, and that is okay—you can file for an absolute divorce, and Fanning Law is here to help. Reach out to our office to schedule a consultation on this today.

What is divorce by mutual consent in Maryland?

Divorce by mutual consent allows couples to obtain an absolute divorce without a six-month separation or citing irreconcilable differences, as long as certain conditions are met:

• The parties have a signed, written settlement agreement covering all issues (property, alimony, custody, child support).
• Both parties agree to the divorce and appear in court.
• If the couple has minor children, the agreement must address custody, access, and child support.

This option provides a faster and more amicable path to divorce for couples who can agree on all terms.

Do I have to be separated to file for divorce in Maryland?

As of 2023, Maryland no longer requires a lengthy separation as a prerequisite to filing for divorce. Instead, the law provides for irreconcilable differences as a ground for absolute divorce without a waiting period. That said, in some cases, living separate and apart can be relevant to showing that the marriage is beyond repair, especially if one party contests the divorce.

What’s the difference between physical and legal custody?

Physical custody refers to where the child lives and who is responsible for day-to-day care. Legal custody refers to the authority to make major decisions about the child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious matters. Parents may share joint physical or legal custody, or one parent may have sole custody. The court’s guiding principle in contested custody matters is the best interests of the child.

Can the amount of child support deviate from Maryland’s guidelines?

Yes. Maryland uses a formula to calculate child support based on both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and other factors such as health insurance and childcare expenses. However, courts can deviate from the guidelines if applying them would be unjust or inappropriate. Factors that may support deviation include special medical needs, shared physical custody, high incomes, or one parent’s voluntary impoverishment. An attorney can help you argue for or against deviation based on the specific facts of your case.

What is “voluntary impoverishment”?

Voluntary impoverishment occurs when a parent intentionally reduces their income or remains unemployed to avoid paying child support. If the court finds that a parent is voluntarily impoverished, it can impute income—meaning it assigns a hypothetical income based on the person’s earning capacity—to ensure a fair child support obligation.

How is marital property divided in a Maryland divorce?

Maryland follows an equitable distribution model. This means that marital property is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. The court considers various factors, including the contributions each spouse made to the marriage, the length of the marriage, the financial circumstances of each party, and any marital misconduct.

Marital property includes most assets acquired during the marriage, regardless of whose name is on the title. It does not include property acquired before the marriage or by gift or inheritance (unless it was commingled with marital assets). Properly characterizing marital property (assets and debts) and accurately valuing them are keys to an equitable distribution, along with other factors set out in Maryland law.

Is alimony automatically awarded in a divorce?

No. Alimony (spousal support) is awarded only when one party requests it and the court determines it would be appropriate. The judge evaluates the requesting spouse’s need and the other spouse’s ability to pay, along with factors such as the length of the marriage, standard of living, and the parties’ ages and health. Alimony may be temporary (during divorce proceedings), rehabilitative (until a party becomes self-supporting), or indefinite (permanent) depending on the circumstances.

Can custody or support orders be modified?

Yes. Either parent can request a modification if there is a material change in circumstances. For custody, changes might include relocation, variations in a parent’s work schedule, or concerns about the child’s well-being. For support, a significant change in income, employment, or the child’s needs may justify a modification. In any case, it’s important to seek a formal court order rather than relying on informal agreements between parents.

What can I do if the other parent is not following the court order?

You can seek enforcement through the court. This may involve wage garnishment, contempt proceedings, or other legal remedies to compel compliance with orders related to custody, visitation, or support. Courts take enforcement seriously, especially when a child’s well-being is at stake.

What is a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement?

These are legally binding contracts between spouses that outline how property, assets, debts, and alimony will be handled in the event of divorce or death. Prenuptial agreements are signed before marriage, while postnuptial agreements are signed after. These agreements can provide clarity, protect family wealth, and prevent conflict—especially in second marriages or when one spouse owns a business.

Can I adopt my stepchild in Maryland?

Yes, stepparent adoption is common in Maryland. To proceed, the noncustodial biological parent must either consent to the adoption or have their parental rights legally terminated. Once the adoption is finalized, the stepparent gains all the rights and responsibilities of a biological parent.

What is guardianship, and how is it different from custody?

Guardianship is a court-appointed legal relationship that allows someone to make decisions on behalf of another person—usually a minor or an incapacitated adult. Unlike custody, which typically applies to parents of minor children, guardianship may be granted to relatives or other concerned individuals when the child’s parents are unable to care for them.

Have Other Questions? Fanning Law Is Here to Help.

Every family law case is different. While these FAQs offer general guidance, they can’t substitute for personalized legal advice. At Fanning Law, we take the time to understand your unique circumstances and provide clear, compassionate counsel every step of the way.

We serve clients in La Plata and throughout Charles County and Southern Maryland. If you’re facing a divorce, custody dispute, support issue, or any other family law matter, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence. Contact Fanning Law today to schedule your confidential consultation.

Let’s Move Forward Together

From our office in downtown La Plata, Fanning Law proudly serves families throughout Charles County and the surrounding areas of Southern Maryland. Whether you’re in Waldorf, Lexington Park, Glen Burnie, Bowie, Annapolis, or right here in La Plata, we’re close by and ready to help.

If you’re facing a divorce or other family law issue in La Plata, Charles County, or anywhere in Southern Maryland, the expertise you need to resolve your matter is here at Fanning Law. We’re ready to stand with you, support you, and guide you every step of the way. Call our La Plata family & divorce lawyer today to schedule an initial consultation, including Saturday appointments over Zoom for your convenience, and take the first step toward peace of mind and a better future.