Lawyers Specializing in LGBTQ+ Family Law

Since 2013, Maryland has recognized same-sex marriage, providing LGBTQ+ couples with associated legal rights and protections. However, navigating family law as an LGBTQ+ couple or individual can still present unique challenges.

At Edwards Family Law Group, we are committed to addressing those challenges with knowledge, sensitivity, and unwavering advocacy. From divorce to adoption and custody, we are here to help.

Divorce for Same-Sex Spouses

While same-sex spouses in Maryland have the same right to divorce as opposite-sex spouses, unique circumstances may arise. For example, marital property division typically considers the length of the marriage, but same-sex spouses who were together before legal marriage may need to demonstrate the full extent of their partnership.

Our specialized attorneys will work with you to ensure that your interests are fairly represented during the divorce process.

Protecting LGBTQ+ Parental Rights

When children are not biologically related to one parent in a same-sex couple, legal protections are essential. Courts may not recognize your parental rights unless you have adopted the child. Even if you’ve acted as a parent for years, formal adoption ensures your legal standing as the child’s parent.

Edwards Family Law Group can guide you through protecting your parental rights and strengthening your family’s legal bonds.

Estate Planning for LGBTQ+ Individuals and Couples

Estate planning is essential for everyone. If you opt to remain unmarried, estate planning becomes even more crucial to prevent your loved ones from being treated as legal strangers in the event of your death or incapacitation. A comprehensive estate plan ensures your wishes are respected, including:

  • Asset Inheritance: Specify who will inherit your property to avoid state laws directing it to unintended recipients.
  • Advanced Directives & Powers of Attorney: Guarantee your loved ones’ ability to make medical and financial decisions on your behalf.

Our team at the Edwards Family Law Group can create a customized estate plan to protect your loved ones and secure your intentions for the future.

Domestic Partnership Agreements

Maryland offers domestic partnerships as an alternative to marriage for couples who want legal recognition of their relationship without formal marriage ties. These agreements benefit both same-sex and opposite-sex couples by:

  • Establishing Property Rights: Clearly outline ownership and responsibilities to avoid disputes.
  • Providing Legal Clarity: Ensure your partnership is recognized and your rights protected.

Edwards Family Law Group can assist with filing your Declaration of Domestic Partnership and drafting a formal agreement to address property, financial, and legal concerns.

Why Choose Edwards Family Law Group?

At Edwards Family Law Group, we believe that every client deserves respect, dignity, and dedicated representation inside and outside of family court. We are passionate about protecting LGBTQ+ rights and ensuring fair treatment under Maryland law.

You and your loved ones deserve the best. Contact Edwards Family Law Group today for a private consultation and let us help you navigate the complexities of LGBTQ+ family law with confidence and care.

Reviews

Edwards Family Law Group was incredible during my custody case. Attorney Charles Edwards was compassionate, thorough, and fiercely protective of my rights. His preparation and courtroom confidence secured me primary custody and a fair settlement. The entire team was supportive, communicative, and professional. I couldn’t have asked for better representation!

Jason T. Miller

Edwards Family Law Group exceeded all my expectations. They were professional, compassionate, and incredibly effective in helping me win custody of my children. Their clear communication and strong advocacy made a stressful process so much easier. I’m beyond grateful for their attorneys and the team’s dedication!

Amanda J. Carter

Attorney Charles Edwards was sharp, supportive, and fought hard for my family. His expertise and genuine care gave me confidence throughout, and the outcome was not only better than I hoped, but much better than the “best case scenario” that had been communicated to me by my former lawyers at other respected law firms. I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of family law help!

Daniel R. Matthews

Edwards Family Law Group was amazing! My case was handled with professionalism and compassion, helping me secure custody of my children and a fair settlement. Their attorneys were always prepared, kept me informed, and truly cared about my family. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience!

Laura P. Bennett

Edwards Family Law Group provided exceptional service during a very difficult time. Attorney Charles Edwards was knowledgeable, compassionate, and always one step ahead. Thanks to his hard work and the work of the Edwards Family Law Group team, I achieved the best possible outcome for my custody case. I’m forever grateful for their dedication and support!

Megan R. Collins

I couldn’t be happier with the support I received from Edwards Family Law Group. They were compassionate, professional, and fiercely committed to my case. They helped me navigate a tough custody battle and secured the best outcome for my family. Highly recommend!

Eric D. Hayes

Edwards Family Law Group was outstanding! Attorney Charles Edwards guided me through a challenging divorce with patience, professionalism, and unmatched expertise. He was always available to answer my questions and fought hard for a fair custody arrangement. I’m so grateful for his and the whole team’s support. Highly recommend!

Lisa M. Thompson

Edwards Family Law Group truly cares about their clients. Their attorneys were incredible—knowledgeable, compassionate, and determined. Thanks to their guidance, I secured a fair custody agreement and can move forward with peace of mind. Strongly advise you choose this firm.

Amanda R. Lewis

Attorney Charles Edwards at Edwards Family Law Group made an overwhelming process manageable. His professionalism and dedication ensured I achieved the best possible outcome for my family. I am forever grateful!

Michael P. Turner

I had an amazing experience with Edwards Family Law Group. Attorney Charles Edwards fought hard for me and my children, securing full custody and a stable financial arrangement. His care and expertise were invaluable!

Sarah J. Coleman

Edwards Family Law Group exceeded my expectations. Their attorneys were true advocates for me during my custody case. They were professional, compassionate, and always prepared. I’m so thankful for everyone’s hard work at the Edwards Family Law Group.

Jason T. Carter

I can’t thank Edwards Family Law Group enough for their help during my divorce. Attorney Charles Edwards was incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, helping me secure a fair settlement and move forward with confidence.

Megan L. Parker

Edwards Family Law Group is amazing! Attorney Charles Edwards provided outstanding representation in my custody case. His dedication and attention to detail made all the difference. I highly recommend this team!

Eric D. Thompson

I’m so grateful to Edwards Family Law Group. Attorney Charles Edwards was compassionate, professional, and relentless in securing a great outcome for my custody case. I highly recommend their services.

Lisa K. Martin

Edwards Family Law Group is the best! They handled my divorce with expertise and care, ensuring I got the results I needed. I couldn’t have asked for a better team to support me.

Brian J. Matthews

I had an excellent experience Edwards Family Law Group. Attorney Charles Edwards was confident, thorough, and always available to answer my questions. The team’s dedication gave me peace of mind throughout the process.

Jennifer A. Reed

Edwards Family Law Group was a lifesaver during my divorce. Attorney Charles Edwards was brilliant, kind, and incredibly effective in court. I’m beyond grateful for his hard work and support!

Daniel H. Foster

Edwards Family Law Group was a true blessing during my divorce. Attorney Charles Edwards was attentive, professional, and incredibly knowledgeable. He walked me through every step of the process, making sure I understood my options. His courtroom presence was remarkable, and he fought hard to secure a favorable custody agreement for me and my children.

The entire team was responsive and supportive throughout. I highly recommend them to anyone needing family law assistance!

Olivia K. Jennings

I can’t thank Edwards Family Law Group enough for their help. Attorney Charles Edwards was amazing—he made a stressful custody battle feel manageable with his clear communication and calm demeanor. He was thorough in his preparation and fought hard in court to ensure the best outcome for my family.

I now have joint custody of my daughter and can finally move forward with confidence. This team is compassionate, professional, and extremely skilled!

Ethan R. Mitchell

Edwards Family Law Group was fantastic from start to finish. Attorney Charles Edwards handled my complex custody case with care and expertise. He always kept me informed, and his compassion made a difficult time much easier to handle. In court, he was sharp and effective, securing a great outcome for me and my children.

The team’s support and professionalism were unmatched. I highly recommend them!

Grace M. Parker

I had a great experience with Edwards Family Law Group. Attorney Charles Edwards was knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely cared about my case. He was patient with all of my questions and made sure I was comfortable throughout the process. His courtroom skills were top-notch, and he fought hard to get me a fair settlement and custody arrangement.

I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney. Thank you for everything!

Liam J. Collins

Attorney Charles Edwards at Edwards Family Law Group was a lifesaver. He handled my custody case with such grace and determination, ensuring that my voice was heard in court. Attorney Edwards was always available to provide updates and answer my concerns, which helped ease my anxiety.

His hard work paid off, and I now have a custody arrangement that works for my family. This firm is professional, compassionate, and delivers results. I highly recommend them!

Sophia T. Morgan

I’m so grateful for Edwards Family Law Group. Their attorneys worked tirelessly on my divorce case and helped me achieve a fair settlement. They were thorough, responsive, and always made me feel like a priority. Their courtroom strategy was impressive and led to a successful outcome. The team’s support made a difficult time much easier. I can’t recommend them enough!

Jacob L. Turner

Edwards Family Law Group is exceptional! Attorney Charles Edwards provided me with outstanding representation during my custody case. He was compassionate, detail-oriented, and always prepared. His professionalism in court was impressive, and he made sure I was confident throughout the process.

Thanks to Edwards Family Law Group, I now have primary custody of my kids and peace of mind. This firm truly cares about their clients!

Emily B. Harper

Working with Edwards Family Law Group was the best decision I made. Attorney Charles Edwards guided me through a challenging divorce with patience and expertise. He always kept me informed and made sure I understood what to expect. His attention to detail and preparation in court were incredible, leading to a favorable custody and financial arrangement.

I highly recommend this team—they are compassionate and highly effective!

Noah P. Harris

I had a great experience with Edwards Family Law Group. Attorney Charles Edwards was amazing—he was kind, professional, and always available to answer my questions. He helped me navigate a tough custody dispute and fought hard for what was best for my kids.

His dedication and expertise were evident in court, and I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. Thank you to the entire team for your support!

Mia R. Bennett

Edwards Family Law Group made a huge difference in my life. Attorney Charles Edwards handled my divorce with professionalism and empathy. He took the time to understand my case and provided clear, realistic advice every step of the way.

His skill in court was impressive, and he worked hard to secure a fair settlement and custody arrangement. I’m forever thankful for his dedication. I highly recommend this firm!

Andrew K. Foster