The death of a Maryland custodial parent can be a difficult time for those involved. However, it can also be difficult to determine who the child will live with. Depending on the situation, a child may go to live with the noncustodial parent, a family member or a third party. When there is no one suitable, these children could become wards of the state.
Focusing on children's well-being during a divorce
When Maryland parents are considering a divorce, they might also wonder what they can do make the process less difficult for their children. They might be able to work together to help their children adjust. This would begin with choosing the right time to file for divorce. One reason that March may be the most popular month for divorce filings is that its long stretch of school days means that parents can take care of divorce-related meetings while their children are in class. However, parents who do not want their children to have to cope with the adjustment during the school year may opt for summer when they might be able to spend more time with them.
Domestic violence may not prevent custody rights
If a parent in Maryland or elsewhere has committed an act of domestic violence, he or she may still get custody or visitation rights. This could be true whether the parent abused an adult living with the child or another minor living with the child. When crafting a visitation order, the best interests of the child and the adult abuse victim will be a top priority.
