Real Talk Family Law

Grandparents’ Rights in Maryland: What Families Should Know

Episode Summary
In this episode of Real Talk Family Law, Maryland family law attorney Richard Lebovitz breaks down the complex topic of grandparents’ rights and what the law actually allows in Maryland. He explains why these cases come up so often, what it means to be a de facto parent, and how courts balance the rights of biological parents versus grandparents.
Richard also shares what both parents and grandparents should understand before going to court, common challenges families face in these situations, and practical advice on how to resolve disputes through communication or mediation rather than litigation.
Key Timestamps
00:30 – Why questions about grandparents’ rights are so common in Maryland01:20 – The reality of grandparents’ legal standing under Maryland law02:10 – What it means to be a “de facto parent” and how that status is earned03:20 – Examples of when grandparents qualify as de facto parents04:30 – How courts view custody and visitation in these situations05:20 – Common legal challenges grandparents face in custody filings06:30 – How judges balance the rights of parents versus grandparents08:00 – Why most cases favor biological parents and what that means for grandparents09:30 – Practical advice for parents when grandparents seek involvement11:00 – Guidance for grandparents before taking legal action12:00 – How mediation and compromise can help families avoid lengthy court battles
About the Show
Real Talk Family Law helps Maryland families understand their legal rights in divorce, custody, and visitation matters. Each episode features attorney Richard Lebovitz, who shares clear, practical guidance based on decades of experience helping families navigate complex family law issues with honesty and care.

Collaborative Law vs. Litigation: What’s Right for You?

Episode Summary
In this episode of Real Talk Family Law, Maryland family law attorney Richard Lebovitz breaks down two very different approaches to divorce: collaborative law and litigation. He explains how each process works, who may benefit the most from each approach, and the financial and emotional factors couples should consider before deciding which path to take. Richard also shares insights into a “collaborative light” approach that balances cooperation with the flexibility to pursue litigation if necessary.
Whether you’re facing complex asset division, child custody concerns, or simply trying to find the least stressful path forward, this episode provides clarity on how to navigate divorce while protecting your future.
Timestamps
00:38 – Defining collaborative divorce and how it differs from litigation02:10 – Who is involved in the collaborative process and their roles04:15 – When collaborative divorce is the best option05:35 – When litigation may be necessary instead07:10 – Addressing risks in collaborative divorce, such as power imbalances08:50 – What “collaborative light” means and how it works in practice11:05 – Comparing costs and time between collaboration and litigation12:20 – What happens when collaborative negotiations fall apart13:45 – Advice for individuals unsure which divorce path to pursue
About the Show
Real Talk Family Law is a practical, no-nonsense podcast hosted by Maryland family law attorney Richard Lebovitz. Designed to guide clients through divorce, custody, and other family law matters, each episode breaks down what to expect from the legal process—starting with your very first consultation. Richard draws on decades of experience to offer clear, compassionate insight that empowers listeners to make informed decisions and take the next step with confidence.

Will I Be Okay After Divorce?” Financial and Parenting Security

Episode Summary
In this episode of Real Talk Family Law, Maryland family law attorney Richard Lebovitz addresses one of the most common and pressing questions clients face during and after divorce: Am I going to be okay?
Richard shares insights on navigating financial uncertainty, dividing assets such as retirement accounts and property, and creating stability for the future. He also explains how Maryland law approaches parenting plans, custody arrangements, and what parents can do when faced with an uncooperative co-parent. Throughout the discussion, Richard emphasizes the importance of managing expectations, seeking the right support, and focusing on solutions that prioritize both financial security and the best interests of the children.
This episode provides practical guidance for anyone facing the emotional, financial, and parenting challenges that follow divorce, offering reassurance that there are legal tools, processes, and strategies available to build a stable and secure future.
Key Timestamps
00:46 – Managing post-divorce uncertainty02:20 – Financial planning during divorce04:15 – Dividing retirement accounts and pensions06:00 – Custody and parenting plans in Maryland08:30 – Dealing with uncooperative co-parents10:15 – Preparing early to reduce conflict11:30 – Advice for those afraid of divorce
About the Show
Real Talk Family Law is a practical, no-nonsense podcast hosted by Maryland family law attorney Richard Lebovitz. Designed to guide clients through divorce, custody, and other family law matters, each episode breaks down what to expect from the legal process—starting with your very first consultation. Richard draws on decades of experience to offer clear, compassionate insight that empowers listeners to make informed decisions and take the next step with confidence.

Divorce by Mutual Consent in Maryland

Episode Summary:In this episode of Real Talk Family Law, Maryland family law attorney Richard Lebovitz explains how divorce by mutual consent provides couples with an efficient, low-conflict alternative to traditional litigation. With over 30 years of experience, Richard details the requirements, process, and advantages of mutual consent divorce, including how it allows spouses to resolve issues privately and avoid prolonged court battles. He also highlights common mistakes that derail agreements and offers practical guidance for couples seeking clarity and closure.
Key Timestamps:
0:50 – Defining divorce by mutual consent in Maryland2:30 – How mutual consent allows couples to remain under the same roof4:00 – Who qualifies for divorce by mutual consent5:10 – Agreements required before filing7:15 – Why negotiated agreements reduce conflict9:20 – Documents and filing requirements10:30 – Typical timeline for a mutual consent divorce11:30 – Court appearance requirements and Zoom hearings12:30 – Mistakes that cause agreements to fall apart14:00 – First steps for couples considering divorce by mutual consent
About the Show
Real Talk Family Law is a practical, no-nonsense podcast hosted by Maryland family law attorney Richard Lebovitz. Designed to guide clients through divorce, custody, and other family law matters, each episode breaks down what to expect from the legal process—starting with your very first consultation. Richard draws on decades of experience to offer clear, compassionate insight that empowers listeners to make informed decisions and take the next step with confidence.

What to Expect at Your First Consultation

Episode Summary
In this episode of Real Talk Family Law, Maryland family law attorney Richard Lebovitz explains what clients can expect during their very first consultation. From preparing questions and gathering documents to understanding the consultation’s purpose, Richard breaks down the process so clients can walk in with confidence and walk out with clarity.
Key Timestamps
00:49 – Richard shares his background as a third-generation attorney and his journey into family law.01:55 – What a family law consultation is and its primary goals.03:17 – Do you need to bring documents to the first meeting? Richard explains.04:17 – Understanding your situation and tailoring a legal path forward.07:11 – The first steps in a family law case, including filing and scheduling.07:40 – What clients can realistically expect to gain from the first consultation.08:45 – Clearing up misconceptions about consultation fees and attorney-client relationships.10:41 – The right mindset to bring to your consultation.11:45 – Richard’s advice for anyone feeling nervous about taking the first step.
About the Show
Real Talk Family Law is a practical, no-nonsense podcast hosted by Maryland family law attorney Richard Lebovitz. Designed to guide clients through divorce, custody, and other family law matters, each episode breaks down what to expect from the legal process—starting with your very first consultation. Richard draws on decades of experience to offer clear, compassionate insight that empowers listeners to make informed decisions and take the next step with confidence.