Maryland Lawyer Blog

We at Law Office of Jason Ostendorf would like to congratulate Judge Yolanda L. Curtin on her recent appointment as Circuit Administrative Judge for the Third Judicial Circuit by Chief Justice Matthew J. Fader. Judge Curtin’s appointment, which began on June 19, 2023, includes the circuit courts for Baltimore and Harford Counties. Her dedication and commitment to serving our community …
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Update: As of October 1, 2023, the law regarding the grounds for an absolute divorce in Maryland has changed. This article reflects the law prior to that date. If you are reading this after October 1, 2023, you may want to refer to our new article which discusses the updated law in detail. Divorce can be a complex and emotionally …
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When navigating through the complexities of divorce, a well-crafted separation agreement, also known as a Marital Settlement Agreement, can make the process less contentious and more predictable. In this article, we delve into the intricate aspects of separation agreements under Maryland law and discuss why involving a competent Maryland divorce lawyer in the process can be invaluable. What is a …
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Interpreting Supreme Court decisions can feel akin to opening a box of chocolates, full of surprise and intrigue. Despite this complexity, the justices adhere to distinct methods of interpretation when deciphering the U.S. Constitution. Let’s delve into these methods to better understand the underlying framework that shapes these consequential decisions. As an appellate lawyer, a fundamental part of your work …
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The interpretation of the United States Constitution often falls into two dominant philosophies: strict constructionism and the living document approach. In a nutshell, strict constructionism demands a literal and narrow interpretation of the Constitution, adhering closely to the text as it was originally written. On the other hand, the living document approach champions the idea that the Constitution must adapt …
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When it comes to appellate law, an attorney for appeals must don a specific set of skills that distinguishes their practice from other legal fields. One key skill that every appellate lawyer should refine is the delivery of an effective appellate oral argument. The unique dynamics of appellate courts require attorneys to be more than just persuasive speakers; they must …
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Selecting the right appellate lawyer to handle your appeal can significantly impact the course and outcome of your case. Unlike trial lawyers, appellate lawyers focus on the legal arguments and writing necessary to persuade judges rather than juries. This specialty necessitates unique skills and qualities. Here are some essential factors to consider when choosing your appellate lawyer. Specializes in Appellate …
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Parental alienation, a complex and often misunderstood phenomenon, can have a significant impact on child custody decisions. This post provides an in-depth look at the concept of parental alienation, its effects on children, and how it is viewed in the eyes of Maryland law when determining custody. Understanding Parental Alienation Parental alienation refers to the process where a child becomes …
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In a recent decision, the Supreme Court of Maryland clarified the conditions under which a juvenile court may award custody to a non-custodial parent in a child in need of assistance (CINA) case. The ruling in In re T.K., 480 Md. 122 (2022), examines the prerequisites for a court to award custody and the best interest standard that must be …
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The concept of family has evolved significantly over time, driven in part by societal changes and advancements in LGBTQ+ rights. The legal landscape surrounding family law has also shifted, with constitutional principles and landmark Supreme Court decisions playing a crucial role in shaping our understanding of what constitutes a family. In this article, we will explore the evolution of the …
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