Calvert County Family Lawyer
Family law matters affect the most personal aspects of your life—your children, your home, your finances, and your future. At Fanning Law, we recognize the stress and uncertainty that come with these challenges, and we’re committed to helping individuals and families in Calvert County find effective, long-lasting solutions.
With over 30 years of experience in Maryland family law, Calvert County family law attorney William C. Fanning, Jr. offers personalized representation that blends legal skill with compassion. From our office serving Prince Frederick and surrounding communities, we provide practical support for clients navigating divorce, custody disputes, domestic violence issues, and more.
Comprehensive Family Law Services in Calvert County
Family dynamics are complex, and no two cases are alike. We work with clients from all walks of life—married or unmarried, parents or guardians, new families or those facing major transitions. Our services cover the full range of family law issues, including:
Divorce
We help clients pursue both contested and uncontested divorces in Calvert County, whether based on mutual consent or other grounds under Maryland law. Our goal is to resolve matters efficiently while protecting what matters most to you—your children, your assets, and your peace of mind.
Child Custody & Visitation
We help parents develop custody arrangements that reflect the best interests of their children and preserve meaningful parent-child relationships. Whether you’re seeking sole custody, shared custody, or need to modify an existing order, we offer clear guidance backed by local experience.
Child Support
Fanning Law helps clients ensure that child support is calculated fairly and enforced appropriately. We also represent parents in modification or enforcement proceedings when circumstances change or problems arise.
Spousal Support (Alimony)
If one spouse needs time or resources to become self-supporting after divorce, we help determine whether alimony is appropriate and what amount is reasonable. We handle both the pursuit and defense of spousal support claims.
Property Division
We assist with identifying, valuing, and equitably dividing marital assets and debts under Maryland law. This includes real estate, retirement accounts, business interests, and other complex property matters.
Separation Agreements
Many families in Calvert County choose to live apart before divorcing. We draft thorough, enforceable separation agreements to address financial responsibilities, property division, and parenting arrangements during this transitional period.
Modifications and Enforcement
When court orders no longer fit your circumstances or aren’t being followed, we help you petition the court to modify or enforce custody, support, or alimony agreements.
Paternity Actions
Establishing paternity is the first step toward asserting parental rights or securing child support. We represent both mothers and alleged fathers in Calvert County paternity proceedings.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
Fanning Law prepares customized marital agreements that protect clients’ financial interests before or after marriage. These agreements help avoid future conflicts and provide peace of mind.
Domestic Violence
We advocate for victims seeking protective orders and defend individuals accused of abuse, ensuring that our clients’ rights and safety are fully protected under the law.
Guardianship
We help individuals petition to become legal guardians of children or incapacitated adults, offering sensitive and strategic representation in these life-changing cases.
Adoption
Whether you’re a stepparent, foster parent, or relative, we’ll help you through the applicable adoption process with the attention to detail and compassion it requires.
Why Choose Fanning Law for Your Calvert County Family Law Matter?
Choosing a local attorney who knows the courts and the community can make a meaningful difference in your case. At Fanning Law:
- We bring decades of experience in Maryland family law.
- We understand the specific practices of the Calvert County Circuit Court.
- We are skilled negotiators and litigators who tailor our approach to your goals.
- We provide one-on-one support and regular communication throughout your case.
Family law cases are about more than legal arguments—they’re about your future. Whether you’re worried about parenting time, financial survival, or personal safety, we’re here to help you build a stronger foundation moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law in Calvert County
Is a separation required before filing for divorce in Maryland?
No, not if you and your spouse agree on all major issues. Maryland allows for divorce by mutual consent, which does not require a separation period. However, if there’s no agreement or irreconcilable differences, you may need to live separately for at least six months to file for absolute divorce on those grounds.
What’s the difference between legal custody and physical custody?
Legal custody refers to the right to make major decisions for a child (e.g., education, healthcare), while physical custody refers to where the child lives. Custody can be joint or sole in either category, depending on what’s best for the child.
Can grandparents get custody or visitation rights?
In certain circumstances, Calvert County courts may award custody or visitation to a grandparent if it’s in the child’s best interests—particularly when the parents are unfit or unavailable.
Do I need a lawyer for a prenuptial agreement?
While it’s not legally required, having an attorney is highly advisable. A lawyer can ensure the agreement is valid, enforceable, and protects your interests under Maryland law. Independent legal counsel is a factor courts look at when deciding whether to enforce a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement.
What happens if my ex violates a custody or support order?
We can file an enforcement action in the Calvert County Circuit Court. The court may issue penalties, modify the order, or take other steps to ensure compliance.
Helping Families Throughout Calvert County
From Prince Frederick to Lusby, Dunkirk, Owings, and Huntingtown, Fanning Law is proud to serve families across Calvert County. We understand the issues local families face, from military relocations to long commutes and multi-generational households. We’re here with local knowledge and personalized attention to guide you every step of the way.
Talk to a Calvert County Family Law Attorney Today
If you’re dealing with a divorce, custody issue, or other family law concern in Calvert County, don’t try to address the matter without legal support. Let Fanning Law provide the trusted legal guidance and experienced representation you need. Contact our office today to schedule a confidential consultation.
