FAQs

Apart from the mandatory one-year separation period in Maryland, we tell our clients that there isn't a fixed timeframe for finalizing a divorce. If you and your spouse can swiftly reach agreements on property and custody matters, your divorce could conclude within a few months. However, if consensus proves elusive, the process may extend to a year or more. Call The Law Offices of Caruso & Zerwitz to work with the lawyers Lutherville Timonium, MD prefers.

As of 2023, Maryland law indicates that the waiting period for divorce has been reduced to six months. However, all marital issues such as property, custody, and child support need to be resolved prior to granting a final divorce. Contact The Law Offices of Caruso & Zerwitz to learn more about why we're the lawyers Lutherville Timonium, MD counts on.

Divorce can be resolved through mediation, collaborative law, or separation agreements. We generally advise that you pursue one of these methods for the best outcome. However, if you can't reach an agreement, resorting to court intervention becomes necessary to reach a resolution. The Law Offices of Caruso & Zerwitz is here for you and offers the lawyers Lutherville Timonium, MD depends on.

Many lawyers bill hourly, usually ranging from $350 to $500 per hour. The Law office of Caruso & Zerwitz may also work with you for flat fee depending on the involvement of your case. That means that the duration of your divorce proceedings directly impacts the expenses incurred. Ensure you're ready for meetings with your attorney and actively contribute to your case to help make the legal process more cost-effective.

Maryland is a no-fault state, which means there's no requirement to assign blame when filing for divorce. Instead, couples can opt for grounds labeled as "mutual and voluntary," indicating both parties agree to separate without any anticipation of reconciliation. However, it's essential to note that even in a "no-fault" divorce, contestation is still a possibility. Parties can still contest and disagree over specific issues, that will require the court's intervention.

Facing arrest can be highly stressful. It's crucial to maintain composure, be polite to law enforcement, and provide genuine identification, even if falsely accused. Remember, politeness doesn't mean confessing. Upon reaching the jail, contact our office promptly to arrange for a bond.

Avoid meeting with law enforcement unaccompanied by our representation. Wait for our presence before undergoing tests, participating in lineups, etc. Refrain from answering questions from law enforcement and court officials unless directed by us. Do not consent to a vehicle search or engage in discussions about your case with others. Do not attempt to bribe an officer. If arrested, do not consent to a vehicle or home search without a written warrant.

Distinctions exist between DUI (driving under the influence) and DWI (driving while intoxicated) charges. Our experts indicate that DUI is considered more severe. Typically, individuals are charged with both offenses, but the state proceeds with only one. In our experience, if your BAC (blood alcohol concentration) is below .08% and impairment is evident, you're likely to face a DWI charge. However, if your BAC surpasses .08%, DUI charges are typically pursued.

We tell our clients that penalties for both offenses include fines and license suspensions. We've seen that a DUI conviction can result in up to a year of jail time, while a DWI may lead to two months of incarceration. Additionally, we've observed that DUI fines tend to be higher compared to those for DWIs. Learn more about why we're the lawyers Lutherville Timonium, MD relies on when you call The Law Offices of Caruso & Zerwitz today.

Usually, after a DUI/DWI arrest, you'll receive a temporary license valid for 45 days. To try to retain your driving privileges, you must schedule a hearing with the MVA within 10 days of the arrest. Failure to do so results in license suspension on the 46th day post-arrest.

Contact us immediately for assistance with your MVA hearing and criminal charges. DUI/DWI arrests add points to your license, potentially leading to attendance at a driver improvement program or license revocation. It's crucial to note that points accumulate only upon conviction.

Each of these offenses carries the potential for jail time. The more drunk driving convictions you have, the more likely you are to face jail time. Typically, first-time offenders do not serve jail time. A DUI conviction may result in up to one year of incarceration, while a DWI can entail up to two months behind bars.

Although it's not required, we've found that it is very beneficial to have an experienced legal representative to guide you through the process. We've observed that defendants rarely face these charges without an attorney. When you call The Law Offices of Caruso & Zerwitz, you'll quickly learn why we have the lawyers Lutherville Timonium, MD values most.

Our team at The Law Offices of Caruso & Zerwitz explains to clients that living wills are written documents that articulate the specific medical treatments you wish to receive (or decline) if you become incapacitated due to an end-stage medical condition. They serve as a means to communicate your preferences to both your family and healthcare provider when you are unable to do so yourself. Make sure you work with the lawyers Lutherville Timonium, MD residents swear by. Give us a call today.

We explain to clients that their physician will assess their capacity to make healthcare decisions and decide when to adhere to their directives. This determination is made when clients lack the ability to comprehend the nature and implications of the choices before them and are unable to communicate their wishes verbally, in writing, or through gestures. The Law Offices of Caruso & Zerwitz offer lawyers Lutherville Timonium, MD respects for their advice.

We tell our clients that their last will and testament is a legally binding document that outlines how their property should be distributed after their death. Any mentally competent adult has the right to create a will. To be considered legally valid, they must sign and date the will, and at least two witnesses must observe their signature and sign the document themselves. The Law Offices of Caruso & Zerwitz takes great pride in providing the top estate planning attorney Lutherville Timonium, MD appreciates most.

In the absence of a will, we tell our clients that state law dictates the distribution of your property. Generally, assets are allocated to your spouse or children. If you don't have a spouse or children, your property passes to your next of kin. Should no relative be identified, the state becomes the inheritor of your belongings.

According to Zipdo, about 68% of Americans don't have a will. Work with an estate planning attorney Lutherville Timonium, MD loves by calling The Law Offices of Caruso & Zerwitz today.

We tell our clients that probate is a legal procedure that occurs following an individual's death. It entails validating the deceased's will, cataloging and assessing the estate, settling outstanding debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets in accordance with the instructions outlined in the will. The Law Offices of Caruso & Zerwitz is very happy to offer you your estate planning attorney in Lutherville Timonium, MD or the surrounding area.