Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland
Child support
When filing for child support, do I go to my local child support agency or can I hire an attorney to file a petition in court?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Child support
The local child support agency may be able to assist you. However, there are reasons why you may or may not want to take this route. One main thing to consider is that OCSE does not represent your interest but rather they represent the interests of the State. There are other things to consider and you should discuss this with an attorney.
Obviously, you can hire an attorney to pursue the matter. Your attorney's fees MAY be recoverable through the legal action for child support.
Child suppport can also be put into an agreeement rather than seeking a court order for payment. An agreement for payment of child support has benefits and costs as well.
You should discuss your situtation with an attorney before you take action. You need to understand your options and the ramiications that each entails.
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Re: Child support
If you qualify, the county child support office will act on your behalf. Otherwise, you will need your own attorney.