Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland

My children's mother died and I have the children and live in Maryland. Paternity is established and I am documented on the birth certificates as the father. Another relative claimed the SSI Death Benefit and I am attempting to have it changed so that the children can receive it since they are in my care. Social Security states that I need to show custodianship. How would I do that or would it be best to file for custody? who would I send the custody order to since the other parent is deceased?


Asked on 11/01/13, 11:40 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Cedulie Laumann Arden Law Firm, LLC

The law presumes that biological parents are custodians of their children, unless the law has intervened (such as by a third party getting guardianship, parental rights being terminated or the like).

You are encouraged to consult with a family law attorney to get advice on how to deal with your specific situation. Many circuit court houses in this state offer a PRO SE clinic staffed by volunteer family law attorneys where you can get answers to basic questions.

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Answered on 12/09/13, 8:34 am


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