joint custody lawyer Maryland, MD

You and your child’s other parent cannot agree on a custody arrangement. You want what is best for your child, but you don’t know how the court will view your situation—or whether a shared parenting plan is even possible. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we understand the emotional weight of custody disputes. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have represented parents in Maryland family courts for decades, helping them work toward joint custody solutions that serve the child’s needs. If you are seeking a joint custody arrangement and need experienced legal guidance, contact us at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.

How We Approach Joint Custody Cases

Our approach to joint custody matters begins with understanding your parenting dynamic. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel assess the specific facts of your case, including each parent’s relationship with the child, work schedules, and any concerns about the other parent’s fitness. We explore negotiated agreements where possible; when agreement is not an option, we advocate in court for a parenting plan that protects your rights and the child’s well-being.

The team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is experienced in presenting evidence on the factors Maryland courts consider. Whether your case calls for joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or both, we build a thorough record that highlights the child’s adjustment to home, school, and community, the mental and physical health of all involved, and each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent. Our goal is to help you reach a sustainable arrangement that keeps both parents meaningfully involved in the child’s life.

What to Expect During the Custody Process

Custody proceedings in Maryland can be complex. In many cases, the court orders mediation, and parents may be required to attend a parenting seminar. Your case may be heard in a circuit court if it is part of a divorce or in the family division of the court. We guide you through each step, from initial filings and discovery to settlement discussions and, if necessary, trial. Throughout the process, we emphasize communication and preparation. While no attorney can guarantee a specific outcome in a custody case, we work diligently to position you for a resolution that reflects your child’s best interests and your parental rights.

How the Court Decides Joint Custody

Maryland courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child. There is no presumption in favor of either parent. The judge considers multiple factors, including each parent’s character and reputation, the child’s wishes if of sufficient age and maturity, and any history of abuse or neglect. Joint custody—whether legal, physical, or both—requires parents to cooperate and communicate effectively. The court will evaluate whether the parents can co-parent successfully and will weigh that against any factors that suggest a history of conflict or inability to put the child’s needs first.

Our role is to present evidence that supports a joint custody arrangement and to argue why it serves your child’s best interests. We also prepare you for the kind of testimony and demeanor that influences the judge’s perception. The outcome of a custody dispute can affect your relationship with your child for years to come, and we take that responsibility seriously.

About Our Maryland Custody Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., brings more than 28 years of litigation experience to every family law matter he handles. A former prosecutor, he understands courtroom dynamics and uses that insight to build persuasive cases for his clients. His Of Counsel team includes attorneys with substantial family law backgrounds, including a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience, and the firm has achieved over 4,739 documented results. Results may vary.

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Last reviewed: June 2026

Frequently Asked Questions About Joint Custody in Maryland

What is joint custody in Maryland?

Joint custody in Maryland means both parents share decision-making authority (joint legal custody) or physical time with the child (joint physical custody), often a combination of the two. The court may award joint legal custody even if one parent has primary physical custody. Joint physical custody does not always mean equal time; the schedule depends on what serves the child’s best interests. The arrangement is designed to keep both parents involved in the child’s upbringing.

How does a judge decide whether to award joint custody?

A judge evaluates the best interests of the child using a set of statutory factors, including each parent’s fitness, the child’s relationships, and the parents’ ability to cooperate. The court will look at evidence of each parent’s involvement, work schedules, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse. No single factor is controlling, and the judge has broad discretion. Our role is to present strong evidence that a joint arrangement is workable and beneficial for your child.

Do I need a lawyer to pursue joint custody?

You are not required to have a lawyer, but an experienced family law attorney can help you navigate the legal process and present the strong case for your desired custody arrangement. Custody disputes can be emotionally draining, and procedural mistakes can weaken your position. An attorney can also negotiate effectively with the other parent’s lawyer and represent you in court if a hearing becomes necessary. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation.

Can a joint custody order be modified later?

Yes, a joint custody order can be modified if there is a material change in circumstances that affects the child’s welfare, such as relocation, a change in either parent’s fitness, or a persistent failure to follow the existing order. The parent seeking modification must show that the change is in the child’s best interests. The court will reconsider the same best-interest factors it used in the original determination. Modification cases often require thorough evidence of the change and why a new arrangement is needed. We can assist you with modification proceedings.

What if the other parent violates the joint custody schedule?

If the other parent consistently violates the custody order, you may file a petition for contempt or seek enforcement through the court. The court can order make-up time, modify the custody arrangement, or impose sanctions. Document every violation carefully. Our firm can help you pursue enforcement and, if the violations are severe, argue that a change in custody is warranted. Early legal intervention can often resolve compliance issues before they escalate.

Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

For a consultation about your joint custody matter, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Our Maryland location is 199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850. By appointment only. We serve parents across Maryland.

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Results may vary.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.