If you have been through a custody proceeding in Maryland, or are heading into one, you have almost certainly heard the phrase "best interest of the child." It is the standard that courts use to evaluate custody decisions. But what does it mean in practice, and how does a judge determine what is right for […]
For couples who are separated or undergoing a divorce, tax season often results in bringing crucial conversations to the surface. Between figuring out who claims the kids as dependents, how to handle a joint refund, and what happens to shared accounts, there are a lot of decisions being made right now, and not all of […]
As spring approaches, many co-parents begin thinking ahead to spring break, summer vacation, and how time with their children will be shared once school routines change. Planning early is not about anticipating conflict—it’s about avoiding it. In family law, some of the most stressful disputes arise not from major life changes, but from seasonal transitions […]
Co-parenting after separation or divorce can be one of the most challenging parts of restructuring family life. Emotions run high, communication can break down quickly, and even small misunderstandings can turn into ongoing conflict. In that environment, co-parenting apps have become increasingly popular. When used correctly, these tools can help parents stay organized, communicate more […]
Technology is changing the way lawyers work, and artificial intelligence (AI) tools are becoming more widely available. While AI can assist with research, drafting, and brainstorming, relying on it without careful professional review can have serious consequences, especially in family law. Recently, there have been several reported situations where AI-generated documents were submitted without sufficient […]
The holidays are supposed to be a time for family, traditions, and celebration—but they can also be stressful and emotional. For couples already navigating a difficult marriage, year-end gatherings and expectations often raise the question: “Is now the right time to file for divorce, or should we wait?” As a family law attorney with more […]
For many couples, the hardest part of divorce isn’t dividing assets—it’s figuring out what’s next for the family pet. After years of morning walks, shared routines, and unconditional comfort in difficult times, it’s never easy to see your furry friend reduced to a line item in a court document. However, when it comes to pets […]
Have you recently become a step-parent or remarried? You're not alone. Over 50% of families in America today are remarried or re-coupled families, creating what is commonly known as "blended families." While these family dynamics can form close bonds that are incredibly rewarding, they also come with unique challenges that traditional nuclear families often do […]
If you’ve recently gone through a divorce, I have some bad news: there’s probably more paperwork ahead. I know this is likely the last thing you want to hear after spending countless exhausting hours on your divorce, and having worked as an attorney for over twenty years, I understand the significant toll that the divorce […]
Going through a divorce is one of the most significant and emotionally complex life changes a person can face. For someone who has never navigated a divorce, imagine juggling a major move, a change in finances, and an entirely new daily routine all at once—and that’s not even counting the emotional toll of losing a […]
As your children grow older, your role in their lives changes. While they may no longer need you to rock them to sleep, help them tie their shoes—or even drive them to school—that doesn’t mean that they don’t still need support from you and your co-parent. In fact, the support they need from you both […]
On May 13, 2025, Maryland Governor Wes Moore approved Maryland’s House Bill 1191 (HB1191), which introduced significant updates to how courts manage child custody decisions. For the first time, Maryland law now clearly specifies the factors that courts can consider when determining what is in the best interest of a child, and when custody orders […]
Mediation is an excellent alternative to litigation for many couples going through the divorce process. It remains a popular choice due to significant time and cost savings, a more collaborative approach, and a higher likelihood of success. However, many common misconceptions prevent people from considering it a viable option for themselves. People often think they […]
Every newly divorced person has a different attitude towards dating post-divorce, and there’s no right or wrong way to feel about re-entering the dating world. On the one hand, I’ve seen many clients who are so done with having a partner after the mess they endured with their ex that they’re ready to kiss dating […]
What kind of things do you share on your social media? Like most people, you probably share your life updates, like when you buy a new car or if you’re at a fantastic party with friends or on an amazing vacation. What if I told you that sharing any of these things on social media […]
Mediation can be an incredible tool for a less contentious divorce, but what happens when an agreement can’t be reached and your mediation fails? As a seasoned Family Law Attorney with over two decades of experience and a Certified Mediator, I’ve helped numerous clients through this exact scenario. While failing to reach an agreement may […]
Being denied access to your children is one of the most frustrating and heart-wrenching experiences a parent can face. As a family law attorney with over two decades of experience, I've guided many parents through this challenging situation and have seen the anguish it can cause. While the emotional toll can be overwhelming, strategic action […]
Tis the season for holiday engagements, and I want to extend my most heartfelt congratulations to those starting this new chapter of their lives. However, as special and exciting as it is to ring in the new year with a new ring, I recommend that soon-to-be-married couples do not wait too long before discussing the […]
The divorce process affects each person differently. For young children, in particular, the divorce process can result in feelings of depression, poor academic performance, and an increase in disruptive behavior. However, choosing mediation for your divorce can help quell some of these negative feelings and behavioral changes in children. With proper care after a period […]
The holiday season is a time for family, joy, and connection, but for co-parents, it can also be a source of stress and conflict, especially regarding custody arrangements. However, with proactive planning and open communication, you can ensure a peaceful and joyful holiday experience for both you and your children. In my two decades of […]
Choosing the right divorce attorney is one of the most important decisions you'll make during a highly emotional and often overwhelming time. Your attorney will represent you in legal matters and be your guide, advocate, and sometimes even a calming presence when things feel uncertain. But how do you know you're choosing the right attorney […]
Navigating a family law dispute can be challenging, but the way you choose to reach a resolution can significantly impact the outcome. For couples seeking to avoid the emotional and financial strain of a courtroom battle, mediation offers a more peaceful and collaborative approach. As a certified mediator and seasoned family law attorney with over […]
Co-parenting can be challenging under any circumstances, but it becomes even more complex when raising a child with special needs. According to recent studies, an estimated 19 million children have one or more special healthcare needs, including 1 in 36 American children having Autism. These statistics mean that millions of parents—both married and divorced—are navigating […]
Filing for divorce is a monumental decision with profound impacts on the lives of you and those around you—and it is essential to fully consider all factors to ensure you're fully prepared to take this step. From my perspective as a seasoned family law attorney, there are five key elements to consider before heading down […]
Summer is here, and with long days, vacations, and other seasonal activities best enjoyed in warm weather, it’s easy to see why many consider the summer months to be their favorite time of year. However, in my experience as a seasoned family law attorney, this time of year is often accompanied by something less enjoyable—conflict […]
On October 1, 2023, new laws went into effect that fundamentally changed the requirements for filing for divorce in the State of Maryland. These modifications have led to Maryland's laws aligning more closely with most other States in the Country, and in many cases, have made obtaining a divorce significantly easier. As a family law […]
The best advice I give to my clients is “Don’t lose sight of the most important people in this case…YOUR KIDS!” Your children come first and you need to make sure that the decisions you make are what is in their best interest. After all, that is what the Court will do. The Court looks […]
It is no secret that the legal industry is behind other professional industries technologically. Last fall our office attended a legal conference to change that. Technology to advance the legal system and accommodate law firms is developed every day. We brought back a wealth of knowledge, and earlier this year we implemented measures to ensure […]
We at the Law Offices of Kerri Cohen would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year! 2021 was a challenging year for all of us but we are excited to share some of our proudest accomplishments of the year and what we have come for you in 2022! If you know Kerri, you know […]
The Cohen Legal Team is all about compensation. Fighting for justice when our clients have been treated unfairly is one of the most important parts of our practice. However, it should be noted that this $6.4 million dollar settlement for the family of Freddie Gray exceeds the combined total of more than 120 other lawsuits […]
Legal battles concerning a divorce have a tendency to drag out longer than the parties would have preferred when they started the process. But what if you need for spousal support (also known as alimony) now? What if not getting that spousal support means not being able to pay the mortgage? How do you approach […]
During the past two weeks, we have had numerous calls about the uncertainty COVID-19 is causing in our community. We compiled a list of the most common questions asked of us to hopefully assist you in this time of need. Please remember that this is not legal advice and if you have questions about your […]
Overall, the divorce rate in Maryland is on the decline, down 1.7% in 2020, with a notable exception - couples over the age of 50 and/or who have been married 20 or more years – these are often referred to as “grey divorces.” For these couples, the rate of divorce has seen a steady and […]
Tomorrow if you have less than 10 grams of marijuana….you do not face up to one year in jail in Maryland. Some say it is about time. Most of my clients are cheering Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley signed two marijuana-related bills into law that will go into effect tomorrow, October 1st. The first decriminalizes the […]
When going through a separation or divorce, clear headed thinking and decision making often takes a back seat. You can end up making the wrong decisions and ultimately end up with the wrong lawyer, all for an urgent desire to end the whole ordeal quickly. This will often have the opposite effect. What you need […]
Divorce is a complex matter which needs to be handled carefully and seriously. Your friends and family members will recommend you a number of divorce attorneys in Baltimore. Not only this, you will also see good client ratings given to different divorce attorneys in Baltimore on internet. But, don’t hire a lawyer instantly because he/she […]
The success of a family law case depends a great deal on the strength of your evidence and how your lawyer presents your case. In other words, you need to choose the best family lawyer because the best family lawyers put all their efforts to figure out the strongest evidence in your case and presents the case […]
Adultery and the impact on alimony in Maryland Courts? ALIMONY is defined as the money that one spouse pays to the other during and/or after a divorce. The purpose of alimony is to ensure that one party is not impoverished solely because of the divorce and to try to maintain the parties’ standard of living similar to when […]
It may sound silly, but these innocent errors can negatively affect your auto accident case. Even if you are trying to do and say the right things, there are many ways you can hurt your case. The Cohen Legal Team has identified what we believe are the TOP 10 mistakes you can make. You may […]
Every child has basic needs. Maryland has identified those needs, determined the economics behind those needs, and implemented Child Support Guidelines to satisfy those needs when co-parents separate or divorce. The implementation of the Child Support Guidelines ensures that both parents proportionally contribute to the needs of their child(ren), in the best interests of the […]