Wooden figures of a family and house next to a judge's gavel on a desk.

Annapolis Family Law & Divorce Attorneys Who Put Your Future First

Guiding Maryland Families Through Life’s Most Important Decisions

Family challenges can be overwhelming. Whether you are facing divorce, working through a custody dispute, seeking financial support, navigating a domestic violence situation, or growing your family through adoption, these matters can bring emotional stress and uncertainty. You deserve experienced legal guidance from a firm that understands the personal and legal complexities you are facing.

Hillman, Brown and Darrow, P.A. has been serving Maryland families for nearly a century. Our attorneys bring more than 160 years of combined legal experience to family law and divorce cases, and our long history in Annapolis reflects our deep commitment to the community we serve.
Call 410.263.3131 or schedule a consultation through the Contact page.

Annapolis Family Lawyers Who Understand What Matters Most

Family law cases affect more than legal documents. They involve your home, your financial security, your relationship with your children, and your future. You need legal counsel rooted in knowledge, compassion, and proven experience. Hillman, Brown and Darrow, P.A. offers steady guidance through every step of the process.

Our firm’s history goes back to 1929, when Noah A. Hillman began practicing law in Annapolis. His leadership, which included serving as an Alderman and interim Mayor of the City of Annapolis, established the values of service and integrity that still define our firm today. Our evolution across generations reflects a longstanding dedication to Maryland families, and our attorneys continue to build on this legacy with professionalism and care.

Learn more about the firm’s history on the Our Firm page

Comprehensive Family Law Services for Every Situation

Every family is unique, and each case requires a tailored approach. Whether you are resolving matters through cooperation or preparing for litigation, our attorneys provide knowledgeable guidance and strong representation. We help clients understand their options and make decisions that support long-term stability and peace of mind.

Our family law services include:

Divorce
Legal separation agreements
Child custody
Child visitation
Child support
Alimony
Prenuptial agreements
Adoption, including stepparent and international adoption
Domestic violence matters
Peace orders
Emergency petitions
Support for related matters involving estates, business issues, and property

Visit the Practice Areas page for a full overview of the firm’s services.

A Trusted Annapolis Firm With a Longstanding Legacy

Hillman, Brown and Darrow, P.A. is known for its deep roots in Maryland and for delivering thorough, thoughtful legal services. Social proof is woven into the very foundation of the firm.

A Firm Supporting Annapolis Families Since 1929

When Noah A. Hillman founded the practice, he established a model of community-focused service that would continue through generations of attorneys. His son Richard Hillman joined in the 1960s, and the firm continued to grow through the contributions of Samuel J. Brown, Michael P. Darrow, Daniel J. Mellin, M. Evelyn Spurgin, and many others who would go on to shape the firm into what it is today.

Our nearly 100-year history is a strong indicator of trust, consistency, and commitment to service.

Recognized Leadership in the Legal Community

Our attorneys continue to earn recognition for professionalism and leadership. For example:

Jonathan E. Pasterick was appointed President of the Anne Arundel Bar Association for the 2025 to 2026 term.

Several attorneys have been named among the Leading Lawyers in Anne Arundel County.

Attorneys have been honored as Maryland Super Lawyers and Rising Stars.

The firm has been chosen as Best Attorneys in the Best of Anne Arundel County Readers’ Choice Poll.

These achievements demonstrate the strength of the team supporting your case.

Client Reviews and Testimonials

The trust clients place in our attorneys is reflected in numerous positive reviews. For example:

“Sam Brown is worth his weight in gold. From the initial consultation through the entire divorce process, Sam and his team were on top of every detail. He fought for me every step of the way. You definitely want Sam Brown on your side.”

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“We hired Brian Lyman and could not be happier. He is thorough, knowledgeable, and guided us through the entire process.”

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“I found Crighton Chase to be a great listener with strong communication skills. He was professional, responsive, and helped me resolve a complicated situation.”

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These personal accounts reflect our dedication to providing quality legal representation.

For more information about attorney backgrounds and qualifications, visit the Attorneys page.

Why Hillman, Brown and Darrow, P.A. Is the Right Choice for Your Family

Choosing a family law attorney requires trust. Clients turn to us because we focus on guiding them with clarity, experience, and compassion.

Extensive Experience Across Family Law

Our attorneys have decades of experience handling complex, emotionally charged family law matters. We know how to evaluate cases, anticipate challenges, and guide clients toward practical solutions.

A Holistic Approach to Legal Support

Family matters often intersect with other legal areas. Our firm offers support in:

This allows clients to resolve issues comprehensively.

Personalized Guidance and Honest Conversations

We listen carefully to your concerns, explain your rights, and provide straightforward advice about your options.

Strong Advocacy in Negotiations and in Court

While many cases resolve through agreements, some require litigation. Our attorneys are prepared to advocate for you in Maryland courts with professionalism and strategic skill.

Commitment to Long-Term Stability

Decisions made during family law cases can affect your life for years. We help clients consider outcomes that protect their financial security, parental rights, and personal well-being.

Meet the Team Supporting Your Family Law Matter

Our firm includes partners and associates with extensive backgrounds and strong ties to the Maryland community.

Leadership and Partner Attorneys

Several of the firm’s partners have decades of experience in family law and related legal areas. Their leadership shapes the culture of professionalism and client service that defines the firm.

Examples of leadership and professional recognition include:

  • Partners such as M. Evelyn Spurgin, Jonathan E. Pasterick, and Sarah E. Brown have contributed significantly to the firm’s growth.
  • Attorneys have earned honors such as Maryland Super Lawyers, Rising Stars, Leading Lawyers, and Up and Coming Lawyers.

Attorneys With Deep Community Involvement

Attorneys at the firm often serve the community through volunteer efforts, local events, and leadership organizations. For example:

  • Attorneys have served in leadership roles at GiGi’s Playhouse Annapolis, the Anne Arundel Bar Association, and local nonprofit organizations.
  • Several attorneys have lived in Annapolis for decades, reinforcing the firm’s deep community connections.

Associate Attorneys Who Strengthen the Firm

Associate attorneys such as Carla M. Poole, Katie D’Entremont, and Connor M. Noel contribute valuable support across family law and other practice areas.

Learn more about the team on the Attorneys page.

What to Expect When Working With Our Family Lawyers

Understanding what to expect can make the legal process feel more manageable. When you work with Hillman, Brown and Darrow, P.A., you can anticipate:

A Thorough Initial Consultation

We begin by reviewing your concerns, answering your questions, and explaining your rights under Maryland law.

Careful Preparation and Information Gathering

We help you collect the documents and information needed to support your case.

Clear Strategy and Planning

We collaborate with you to determine goals, identify potential challenges, and outline a practical legal path.

Professional Negotiation With the Other Party

Many cases resolve through negotiation or mediation. We work toward solutions that protect your best interests.

Courtroom Representation When Necessary

If your case requires litigation, you will have experienced trial attorneys prepared to advocate for you.

Guidance Beyond the Final Order

We help you understand the next steps after your case concludes and ensure all documents and agreements are finalized correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland Family Law

Even uncontested cases involve important legal documents and long-term consequences. An attorney ensures your rights are protected.

The timeline depends on whether the case is contested, the complexity of financial issues, and the cooperation between spouses.

Courts prioritize the best interests of the child. Factors may include parental involvement, home stability, the child’s needs, and each parent’s ability to support the child’s well-being.

Many cases resolve through settlement, but some require court hearings or trial. Our attorneys prepare for both approaches.

Financial records, communication records, prior court orders, and any agreements discussed with the other parent or spouse.

Explore Helpful Resources and Family Law Articles

Schedule a Consultation With Our Annapolis Family Lawyers

You do not have to face family changes alone. The attorneys at Hillman, Brown and Darrow, P.A. are here to support you with experience, clarity, and compassion. Whether your case is straightforward or complex, we help you understand your options and take confident steps toward the future.
Call 410.263.3131 or schedule your consultation through the Contact page