How to File a Child Custody Complaint Response in Maryland

Children are often the ones most seriously affected by divorce and custody proceedings.

In Maryland, child custody matters are handled by the circuit court in the area where the child lives. This court is responsible for issuing custody notices filed with them by one spouse to the other. If you receive a child custody complaint notice from your spouse in Maryland, you must respond promptly. It pays to know how to properly file a response to this notice and avoid any confusion.

Things You'll Need

• Copier

Instructions

1. Obtain every single document you have pertaining to the child or children in question. This includes, for instance, birth certificates, school enrollment forms, medical bills, tax documents, and property tied to the child. You need these forms as references and proof when filing your response.

2. Consult legal counsel immediately upon receipt of the child custody complaint response. With matters such as child support, it is absolutely necessary to have legal representation. Bring all of your papers to the meeting, even if you are not hiring the legal counselor to represent you in court.

3. Fill out the complaint response with all of the necessary information and according to the advice of your legal counsel.

4. Make a copy of the form for your own records.

5. Return the completed complaint response to the circuit court that issued it as soon as possible after you receive it. A clerk with the circuit court will take the form, authorize it with an official stamp, have you sign a ledger affirming your identity as the other party involved in the custody complaint, and file it.

References

• Maryland Courts: Family Law Forms
• People-law: Custody and Visitation in Maryland