Here is the HTML content for the Prince George’s County grandparent custody lawyer page.
“`html
In Prince George’s County, Maryland, grandparents may petition for custody or visitation under specific circumstances. A grandparent custody lawyer Prince Georges County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you understand your rights. We have 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 1-201
Statutory Definition: Grandparent Custody & Visitation in Maryland
Under Maryland law, a grandparent may file a petition for custody or visitation if they can demonstrate that a parent is unfit, or that exceptional circumstances exist that make custody or visitation in the child’s best interest. The court applies a best-interest-of-the-child standard, considering factors such as the child’s relationship with the grandparent, the parent’s fitness, and the potential harm to the child if the relationship is denied. This is governed by Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 1-201 and related case law. A grandparent custody petition lawyer Prince George’s County can assess your specific situation.
- Step 1: File a Complaint for Custody or Visitation — File in the Circuit Court for Prince George’s County (14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772). Include a detailed statement of facts showing exceptional circumstances.
- Step 2: Attend Mandatory Parenting Seminar — Both parties (including grandparents) must attend a court-approved parenting seminar within 30 days of filing if the case involves minor children.
- Step 3: Mediation — The court will order mediation for custody disputes. Grandparents must participate in good faith.
- Step 4: Temporary Hearing (if needed) — A pendente lite hearing may be scheduled within 30-60 days to establish temporary custody or visitation.
- Step 5: Final Hearing — A trial is held where the court determines custody or visitation based on the best interests of the child.
In Prince George’s County, a grandparent custody case can result in joint custody, sole custody, or visitation rights. The court may also order child support if the grandparent is awarded custody.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grandparent Custody Petition (contested) | Civil matter | None | Filing fee: $165; service: $40-$100; mediation: $100-$350/hr | None | Court may order custody evaluation ($3,000-$10,000+); parenting seminar fee ($50-$100) |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case Results
SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. In family law matters, we have secured favorable custody and visitation arrangements for grandparents across Maryland.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Prince George’s County courts. Accessible via I-495, I-95, Route 301, Route 4, Route 5, Route 202. Serving Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, Suitland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a grandparent file for custody in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. Maryland law allows a grandparent to file for custody if they can show a parent is unfit or that exceptional circumstances exist. The court applies the best-interest-of-the-child standard. A grandparent custody lawyer Prince Georges County can evaluate your case.
What is the first step to file for grandparent custody in Prince George’s County?
The first step is filing a Complaint for Custody or Visitation in the Circuit Court for Prince George’s County. You must include facts showing exceptional circumstances. The filing fee is $165. A grandparent custody petition lawyer Prince George’s County can prepare the paperwork.
How long does a grandparent custody case take in Prince George’s County?
It depends. Uncontested cases may resolve in 2-3 months. Contested cases with custody evaluations can take 6-18 months. A temporary hearing for visitation may be scheduled within 30-60 days of filing.
Do grandparents have visitation rights in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland law provides for grandparent visitation if it is in the child’s best interest. The court considers the child’s relationship with the grandparent and the parent’s reasons for denying visitation. A grandparent visitation rights lawyer Prince George’s County can help file a petition.
What factors does the court consider in a grandparent custody case?
The court considers the child’s age, the child’s relationship with the grandparent, the parent’s fitness, the stability of the grandparent’s home, and any history of abuse or neglect. The child’s preference may also be considered if the child is of sufficient age and maturity.
Can a grandparent get custody if the parents are unfit?
Yes. If a parent is found unfit due to substance abuse, mental illness, incarceration, or neglect, a grandparent may be awarded custody. The court must find that custody with the grandparent is in the child’s best interest.
Is mediation required in grandparent custody cases in Prince George’s County?
Yes. The court frequently orders mediation for custody disputes, including those involving grandparents. Mediation is designed to help parties reach an agreement without a trial. The cost is typically $100-$350 per hour, split between the parties.
What is the difference between custody and visitation for grandparents?
Custody gives the grandparent decision-making authority and physical custody of the child. Visitation grants the grandparent the right to spend time with the child but does not include legal decision-making. A grandparent custody petition lawyer Prince George’s County can explain which option fits your situation.
Related Practice Areas
- Prince George’s County Family Law Lawyer
- Montgomery County Family Law Lawyer
- Howard County Family Law Lawyer
- Prince George’s County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Prince George’s County DUI Lawyer
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.