Offices in Columbia, Towson, and Rockville, Maryland
THE LAW
An attorney may be appointed to represent a child in custody cases in equity court.
In child custody cases there is no statutory requirement for the appointment of counsel for children. Counsel for children in custody cases may be requested by the parties or appointed by the court.
Once an attorney is appointed by the court to provide representation for a child in a custody case, the attorney appointed will serve one of the following roles as dictated by the appointment.
- A Best Interest Attorney is appointed to determine what is in the child’s best interest and advocate that position during any settlement negotiations or trial.
- A Child’s Privilege Attorney determines whether to assert or waive the child’s privilege of confidentiality with respect to any reports or communication involving a psychiatrist, psychologist and/or other medial professional.
The goal of the appointment of child’s counsel in custody cases is to ensure that:
- the process is fair
- the child’s voice is heard
- rights are protected
- the court is fully informed so that when it makes its determination as to what is in the child’s best interest, the decision will be made with full knowledge regarding all aspects of the child’s life
ASSISTANCE PROVIDED BY FLAG
The attorneys at FLAG have represented over a thousand children in child custody and child welfare cases. Additionally, several of our attorneys are former educators who have experience working with and interacting with children on a daily basis.
Our experience in advocating for children is second to none; we take our role very seriously and will provide competent, zealous advocacy as instructed by the court.
When seeking out a child’s attorney, experience and a commitment to advocating for children is key to providing a clear picture of the family dynamics to the court. These aspects are at the foundation of FLAG’s mission.
Call our office (410) 884-0400 to schedule an Initial Consultation to discuss your legal rights.
Click to read our Blog articles on Court Appointed Counsel.
