Reinstein, Glackin & Herriott, LLCReinstein, Glackin & Herriott, LLC2026-06-25T20:11:53Zhttps://www.rghlawyers.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1304131/2025/05/cropped-Site-icon-1-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Reinstein, Glackin & Herriott, LLC<![CDATA[Daily Record Names Daniel Renart to 2025 Family Law Power List]]>https://www.rghlawyers.com/?p=489972025-10-03T15:38:26Z2025-10-03T15:38:26ZThe Daily Record has selected Daniel Renart as a 2025 Family Law Power List recipient. The Power List recognizes attorneys who are among the most influential and respected practitioners in the family law sector in Maryland.
Read The Daily Record's article about Attorney Renart.]]>On Behalf of Reinstein, Glackin & Herriott, LLC<![CDATA[How the Former Spouse Protection Act impacts military divorces]]>https://www.rghlawyers.com/?p=484872026-04-30T16:47:25Z2025-03-30T17:58:19ZWhat is the Former Spouse Protection Act?
Many people refer to the Former Spouse Protection Act as the 10/10 rule. It is a federal statute that applies to the distribution of a military pension. Couples can reach their own arrangements regarding property division or can ask a judge to settle their disagreements. If division of the pension is one of the terms that they agreed on, then the 10/10 rule or Former Spouse Protection Act applies.
If the marriage lasted for at least 10 years and the service member had 10 years of qualifying service during the marriage, then the non-service member spouse can receive direct pension distributions from the military. The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) can make direct payments to the former spouse of the service member when they begin providing pension payments.
If the marriage was shorter or the service member had fewer than 10 qualifying years of service during the marriage, then the spouses may need to make an alternate arrangement for sharing pension benefits. Learning about the unique rules and requirements during a military divorce can help spouses navigate the process more effectively.]]>On Behalf of Reinstein, Glackin & Herriott, LLC<![CDATA[When can you modify a custody order? ]]>https://www.rghlawyers.com/?p=484762025-03-18T17:34:49Z2025-03-18T17:34:49ZA child custody order provides stability, but sometimes circumstances change. In Maryland, a court may modify custody if there is a material change in circumstances that affects the child’s well-being.
What is meant by a material change in circumstances? Below are some key reasons why custody may be modified in Maryland.
Significant change in parental circumstances
A custody order is based on the situation at the time of the court’s decision. If a parent experiences a major life change, such as a job loss, relocation or serious illness, the court may review the existing arrangement. A move that makes the current custody schedule unworkable is one of the most common reasons for modification.
Child’s safety and well-being
If a parent’s actions endanger the child, a custody change may be necessary. This can include substance abuse, neglect, domestic violence or criminal activity. The court prioritizes the child’s best interests and will modify custody if the current arrangement puts them at risk.
The child’s needs have changed
As children grow, their needs change. A once-suitable custody plan may no longer work due to school schedules, medical needs or the child’s own preferences. If a child is old enough to express a reasonable preference, the court may consider their wishes when modifying custody. However, it is important to note that the child has no final say. The deciding factor is always the court’s perception of the child’s best interests. To modify a custody order, the requesting parent must file a petition with the court and prove that a material change has occurred. The judge will evaluate the case based on what serves the child’s best interests. If you believe a custody change is necessary, it may help to seek legal guidance.
]]>On Behalf of Reinstein, Glackin & Herriott, LLC<![CDATA[3 times couples may want to mediate divorce disputes]]>https://www.rghlawyers.com/?p=484752025-03-15T23:47:56Z2025-03-15T23:47:56Zdivorce mediation, the spouses sit down with a neutral professional to discuss the situation and their expectations for the divorce. Mediation can help spouses work out arrangements that they find mutually agreeable for their divorces.
Virtually any divorcing couples might benefit from mediation, but those in one of the three circumstances below may derive more benefit from mediation than the average couple.
Parents with young children
Conflict between parents has a tendency to be particularly damaging for children during divorce. The children may experience more emotional consequences when they witness their parents fighting constantly and disparaging one another. Parents who work together through mediation can limit their overall level of conflict and even improve their parenting dynamic. They also eliminate the possibility of the children needing to testify about their preferences regarding custody during litigation, which can reduce the stress their children feel related to the divorce.
Couples concerned about privacy
Perhaps one of the spouses is a local high school principal. Maybe they hold a state political office. There are many scenarios in which divorce has the potential to embarrass an individual and damage their reputation. The confidentiality provided by divorce mediation allows couples to discuss deeply personal and potentially embarrassing issues in a private setting. They can reach an appropriate divorce settlement without needing to share their concerns in open court.
Spouses with unique goals
Some people prepare for divorce with a specific goal in mind. They feel strongly about keeping the marital home or protecting their professional practice. When people litigate divorce matters, a judge has the final say on everything from financial support and property distribution to parental responsibilities. In a mediated divorce scenario, spouses have the option of prioritizing the terms that are the most important to them. They can potentially negotiate an arrangement in which they secure their personal objectives and make concessions on other matters. When having control over the outcome is critical, mediation is often a better option than litigation.
Mediation can also be beneficial for those who want to control divorce costs, speed up the divorce timeline or maintain an amicable relationship with their spouses. Committing to alternative dispute resolution during divorce could be a beneficial decision for people in a broad range of different situations.]]>On Behalf of Reinstein, Glackin & Herriott, LLC<![CDATA[2 considerations for summer break with a parenting plan]]>https://www.rghlawyers.com/?p=484742025-02-28T10:44:55Z2025-02-28T10:44:55ZSummer breaks are a time that children usually look forward to because it means taking a break from school. That break can be challenging for parents because they may have to figure out child care and similar matters.
The difficulty that comes with summer breaks for parents is increased when the parents have a court-approved parenting plan. For parents in this position, it’s critical to understand the terms of the plan, particularly the parenting time schedule. This helps them to know when they’ll have the children with them so they can plan accordingly.
1. Sharing child care may be possible
If both parents live in the same area, they may be able to share child care, which keeps things consistent for the child. This requires that both parents agree on the childcare option they’ll use. They also need to set the expectations for who will pay for the child care. For example, they may agree to split the cost evenly or they may choose to divide it based on the parenting time schedule.
2. Vacation plans can be challenging
Planning a vacation is one specific challenge that requires special thought. In some cases, the vacation plans will trump the summer parenting time schedule, which means that the parent planning the vacation needs to notify the other parent so they can make appropriate adjustments to the schedule. Checking the parenting plan for geographical limitations or notifications is critical, and parents will likely need written documentation from the other parent for international travel. Having a parenting plan that clearly outlines the terms for summers may help to take the stress off both parents. This may not be easy to get done, but it might be a bit less complicated if the parents work with someone familiar with these matters. ]]>On Behalf of Reinstein, Glackin & Herriott, LLC<![CDATA[Professional asset valuation may be necessary before divorce]]>https://www.rghlawyers.com/?p=484722025-01-31T00:46:43Z2025-01-31T00:46:43ZWhat assets may require valuation?
Some resources have a clear financial value. For example, spouses rarely struggle to determine the value of a checking account. Other resources may fluctuate in value and may not have a specific monetary value attached to them.
Dividing those assets may require the assistance of an outside professional. If the spouses own a small business or professional practice, they may need help with the business valuation process. If spouses acquired real property during the marriage, they may need an appraiser or a local listing agent to determine what their home and other real estate holdings are worth.
Personal property, including collections and wardrobes, may also require the insight of a professional familiar with the current value of designer clothing or sapphire earrings. Vintage furniture, classic vehicles, fine art and even wine cellars may require the support of a professional during the valuation process.
Establishing a fair market value for marital assets is an important step for those preparing to file for divorce. Those who know what their assets are worth can push for a fair allocation of marital assets and debts.]]>On Behalf of Reinstein, Glackin & Herriott, LLC<![CDATA[What happens during a collaborative divorce?]]>https://www.rghlawyers.com/?p=484702025-01-18T18:07:01Z2025-01-18T18:07:01ZSpouses commit to working together
Many couples begin the divorce process by promising to keep things amicable. As things progress, one spouse may backtrack on that commitment. They may show up to negotiations or court with a lawyer, leaving the other spouse at a major disadvantage.
During collaborative divorce, spouses make a formal commitment to working with one another. They sign an agreement that requires that they settle every dispute outside of court and move forward with an uncontested divorce filing. If they fail to achieve that goal and decide they prefer to litigate, then they typically have to begin the process from the beginning. They may even need to retain different attorneys to avoid either spouse having an unfair advantage.
During a collaborative divorce, each spouse has their own legal representation. They may also work with a number of other outside professionals. Mediators, child specialists and financial advisors can all help during a collaborative divorce.
Mediators help resolve disputes. Child advocacy professionals can help parents negotiate custody arrangements that uphold the best interests of their children. Financial advisors can help review the marital estate and propose property division terms that are reasonable and fair.
Provided that both spouses enter the process in good faith, they may be able to move forward with an uncontested divorce filing. Even though they may have to pay outside professionals, a collaborative divorce can ultimately be more cost-effective than a litigated divorce. By minimizing the amount of time spent litigating in court, couples can keep their divorce costs lower. They also maintain their privacy more effectively and retain control over the final terms set.
Learning more about collaborative divorce proceedings can help people pursue a more amicable end to a marriage. Collaborative divorces have become increasingly popular, especially among those with highly-valuable property and/or shared children.]]>On Behalf of Reinstein, Glackin & Herriott, LLC<![CDATA[Do you have to split your pension in a divorce?]]>https://www.rghlawyers.com/?p=484642024-12-23T14:14:11Z2024-12-23T14:14:11ZYou’ve spent years contributing to your pension, planning for a secure retirement. Now that you’re facing a divorce, you might wonder whether you will have to share what you’ve worked so hard for over the years. Does it mean losing half of your pension to your ex?
Understanding Maryland's divorce laws can help you prepare for what lies ahead and make informed decisions in such a situation.
Pension can be a marital or separate property
In Maryland, the portion of your pension earned during the marriage isconsidered marital property, meaning it’s subject to division during a divorce. However, the portion earned before the marriage is separate property and remains yours. Drawing this distinction can sometimes be complicated, depending on the unique aspect of each case.
Marital property is subject to equitable division
All marital assets in Maryland are divided fairly but not necessarily equally. As such, your spouse may be entitled to a portion of your pension. The court has several options for going about this. Your spouse may receive a share of the retirement benefits when you retire, a lump sum based on the present value of their share or other marital assets of equal value.
Negotiating your alternatives
You can negotiate an agreement with your spouse if you want to keepyour pension untouched. For example, you might offer them a larger share of other marital assets, such as savings or property, or even personal assets of similar value in exchange for retaining your full pension.Dividing a pension can significantly affect your retirement plans, and understanding your rights and options is crucial to safeguarding your financial future. Seeking qualified guidance can help you navigate this and other complexities of property division in a divorce while safeguarding your interests.]]>On Behalf of Reinstein, Glackin & Herriott, LLC<![CDATA[How to prevent parental re-abduction in child custody cases]]>https://www.rghlawyers.com/?p=484602024-11-21T13:18:01Z2024-11-21T13:18:01ZUnderstanding and enforcing your legal protections
Maryland law strongly supports parents whose ex-partners have violated custody rights, especially in international disputes. It offers important legal protections:
Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act helps ensure custody orders are recognized and enforced across different states.
These laws protect your parental rights and your child's safety. Courts in Bowie, like those throughout Maryland, take re-abduction prevention seriously. To strengthen your legal protection, you can:
Get a detailed court order spelling out custody plans and travel limits
Sign up for the U.S. State Department's Child Passport Issuance Alert Program
Ask for supervised visits if needed
Consult with a family law attorney experienced in international custody cases
Each action significantly improves your legal position. If you suspect your parental rights are at risk, contact law enforcement right away.
Practical safety measures and local resources
While legal protections matter, daily vigilance is just as important. Some practical steps you can take include:
Securing important documents: Keep passports, birth certificates, and custody orders safe.
Informing caregivers: Let your child's school and doctors know about custody arrangements.
Using tech wisely: Consider GPS tracking during your ex's visits.
In addition to these steps, develop a comprehensive safety plan. Teach your child how to get help. Keep recent photos and important details readily available. Maintain consistent routines and open communication with your child. These steps can boost safety and help your child feel secure and cared for.
Maryland offers help for parents facing international custody disputes. Local support groups and counseling can provide emotional aid and useful advice. Some local police departments also run a child safety class that covers international abduction risks.
By using legal protections, safety measures and local resources, you can look after your child better while following custody agreements. Stay informed, stay alert and ask for help when you need it. In Bowie, you're not alone in protecting your child from re-abduction.]]>On Behalf of Reinstein, Glackin & Herriott, LLC<![CDATA[3 special considerations for custody during a military divorce]]>https://www.rghlawyers.com/?p=484592024-11-12T19:42:44Z2024-11-12T19:42:44Zservicemembers divorce, they are largely subject to the same laws as any civilian couple. However, they do have special considerations they may need to factor into the negotiation process.
When a military divorce involves minor children, the parents have to find a way to share custody. There are a few special considerations they need to take into account when establishing a custody order after a military divorce.
The need for several custody plans
Most families develop one custody schedule that applies indefinitely. Military couples may need several different custody plans that they can use in a variety of circumstances. They need a basic custody arrangement for when both spouses are in the same location. There may need to be a training custody plan for when one spouse has long hours or a short-term trip to continue their military education. A deployment custody arrangement is likely also necessary in case the servicemember must deploy after the divorce.
The importance of communication standards
Given the potential for lengthy disruptions in family dynamics due to training or deployment, communication rules are crucial. Parents may need to have the rules in place for virtual visitation via video calls. They may also need to make arrangements for the children to communicate via telephone or email to maintain their connection with the military parent during their training or deployment. Such rules are often an integral part of preserving the parent-child bond when the servicemember cannot be physically present with the family.
The need to update a Family Care Plan
Servicemembers typically have to file a Family Care Plan with the chain of command. Such plans play an important role in ensuring that their dependents receive appropriate support should anything happen during training or deployment. The existing plan likely requires revision to reflect the new scenario involving divorce and shared custody.
With the right approach, divorcing servicemembers and their spouses can often establish a custody arrangement that functions well for the whole family. Recognizing that custody requires a bit more care and in-depth analysis for military couples to help people approach the various realities of divorce effectively.]]>