Thomas E Mulinazzi

Thomas E Mulinazzi

also known as Mulinazzi Law Office, MLO, Family Law Practice

4.8
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 22 years

Child custody Lawyer at Columbia, MD
Practice Areas: Child Custody, Divorce & Separation, Alimony ... +2 more

Ste B215, 10015 Old Columbia Rd, Columbia, MD

About Thomas

Biography

Practice Areas

5

Practice Areas

Alimony 20%

This is a very difficult and emotionally charged area of the law. The outcomes are often unclear and Mr. Mulinazzi's honesty and insight are essential if a client is to truly understand the likely alimony outcomes and the reasons for it - without that the client cannot make his or her own decision on alimony amount and duration.

23 years

20%
Child Custody 20%

Mr. Mulinazzi has successfully resolved or litigated custody cases from all sides of the issue: mom, dad, grandparent, and the Court often appoints him to represent children in these cases. His personality, skill set, and experience as a former school teacher are invaluable to the presentation, management, and resolution of custody disputes.

23 years

20%
Divorce and Separation 20%

Mr. Mulinazzi is an experienced and strong advocate in all issues involving divorce and various ways to resolve divorce disputes to include COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE. He handles property division, business valuation and preservation, spousal support/alimony, tax consequences of divorce, non-marital property, and all child-related issues.

23 years

20%
Family 20%

This area of law includes all the subsections of divorce, separation negotiation and drafting agreements, collaborative law, custody, alimony, etc. Mr. Mulinazzi takes a "family-centered" approach to resolving cases which reflects the Judge's perspective on these issues. This reduces conflict and stress on the family while the cost of litigation.

23 years

20%
Mediation 20%

Mediation and Collaborative Divorce practice -- Mr. Mulinazzi is trained and certified in both basic and advanced training. He is very proud of his work in this area and how it has helped families and reduced conflict.

20 years

20%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Retainer

Always


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Looking for an attorney? Avvo can help.

search module image

Search our directory

Quickly connect with top attorneys through our legal directory to get help with your legal issue.

chat module image

Avvo's live chat agents can help coordinate a consultation with a local attorney.

Chat with a live agent who can match you with the right attorney for your legal needs.

Chat with

Licenses

Licensed in Maryland for 22 years

State: Maryland

Acquired: 2003

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Mulinazzi Law Office, LLC

Ste B215, 10015 Old Columbia Rd, Columbia, MD, 21046-1703

Ad

Transform legal challenges into solutions.

Connect now to review your situation.

The Avvo Rating explained

display-bg

The Avvo Rating explained

Thomas E Mulinazzi's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

4.8 /5.0

111 Client Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 23 reviews | General Knowledge

Posted by LaKiesha | August 19, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Divorce & Separation

Excellent service

The Mulinazzi Law Office was instrumental in providing aid to me in my Divorce, Custody, and Child Support case. The team of attorneys that I worked with, including Mr. Mulinazzi himself, were knowledgeable and worked diligently to address any issue or new development presented in my case. They truly... demonstrate care and concern for the legal and personal matters of their clients as it pertains to the given case. I would absolutely recommend working with this team.

Posted by anonymous | December 06, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Great Lawyer

Thomas is a fair, honest and extremely knowledgeable lawyer. He is reasonable in thinking, and has helped me above and beyond with my PL case. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing representation and advice. MM, Howard County

Thomas Mulinazzi

Replied last December 06, 2020

Thank you or these words. Our Office was very pleased that we were able to get you the custody schedule and financial support you wanted at the Pendente Lite Hearing and that we did so at almost 1/2 the cost.

Posted by GHT | September 22, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Child Custody

Second to None!

Thomas represented me in a pretty bitter, ugly and contentious custody battle. It was clearly one of the most stressful times of my life and I did not want to return to the attorney who represented me for my divorce as I simply did not have a good experience. I had to shop around a bit but as soon as... I met Thomas, I knew he was a different type of attorney. He was honest, candid and told me what I needed to hear- not what I wanted to hear. He asked thorough questions and actually made me feel like he cared about my situation (yes- an attorney who actually cares about his clients and how stressful this process is for those who go through it!). Throughout the process, Thomas remained the consummate professional- timely with responses and always taking the high ground with my ex-husband's attorney- as well as reminding me to stay on high ground. He attempted to settle in a way that would bring our case to a close sooner than later and for a more reasonable price but sadly, that was not possible and the case went to trial. In court, Thomas has masterful in presenting our case. He was thoroughly prepared and kept me focused on what was most important. The three-day trial was exhausting and nerve-racking but watching Thomas exude such professional decorum and confidence in court only brought me more courage and calmness as I waited and mentally prepared to take the stand to testify. To summarize it, Thomas is not your show-off, arrogant, cut-throat-type of attorney but when it comes to custody cases, I really do not believe that is what works or what wins cases. What I did get from Thomas was a laser-focused, honest individual, who knows the law, has an impeccable reputation in the courts, is reasonably priced and who keeps it real with his clients- leading to many wins and victories- including winning my case. This combination is what makes him the best family law attorney you can find and undoubtedly, second to none!

Posted by Haytham | January 24, 2020 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Great Lawyers , professional team !

Though I asked Thomas for his help in my case in really short period of time , not only he took it , but also he showed empathy and understanding . I didn't feel like i'm his client . He made me feel he's on my side fighting my case . Gave me honest and accurate advise still realistic . While in cour...t i felt so confident standing next to him with his great knowledge and smart responses . I'm really grateful for him and his team .

Posted by anonymous | November 20, 2019 | Divorce & Separation

Personable and knowledgeable!

Thomas spent time answering my questions in a consultation with detail and care that went above and beyond. We spent time reviewing my options which he gave his knowledgeable and fair opinions on but also let me decide what would be best for me. I will be hiring him to help me through my divorce.

See All Client Reviews

Thomas E Mulinazzi's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Thomas
Megan Renee O'Connor headshot
Megan O'Connor

Family lawyer | Jul 24

Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"I have had the opportunity to work for and with Mr. Mulinazzi on a large number of matters over the last several years. Every single time I have worked with him, I have been impressed by his knowledge of the law and dedication to his clients. I have honestly never known another lawyer who will work as tirelessly for his clients as Mr. Mulinazzi. Whether you simply need a little direction on a family law question, or you are looking for a tough and experienced litigator to fight for you in a highly contested divorce case, you can't go wrong with Mr. Mulinazzi on your team."

Hollie S Cutler headshot
Hollie Cutler

Family lawyer | Dec 10

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer. As a family law attorney in a different county, I asked people familiar with Howard County attorneys who to hire. I am thankful I did—Thomas did an excellent job. Because of the opposing party’s behavior, I continue to be represented by Thomas so he can seek enforcement of the order(s) he secured on my behalf. So, I have had an opportunity to watch Thomas in Court several times. On each occasion, he was professional, well prepared, and respected. I endorse Thomas, as a fellow attorney and from a client’s perspective as well."

Joseph Martin Maher headshot
Joseph Maher

Divorce and separation lawyer | Dec 20

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I have had numerous cases where Thomas was opposing counsel. He was prepared and appropriately represented his clients, while at the same time remaining professional."

Shirley Elaine Long headshot
Shirley Long

Child custody lawyer | Sep 26

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Thomas Mulinazzi is a great mentor for young lawyers just starting out in the area of family law. He's very knowledgeable on the issues and on how to build a relationship with a client going through them."

W Steven Smitson headshot
W Smitson

Family lawyer | Dec 05

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Thomas is an excellent attorney who understands the importance of strongly advocating for his clients in a most civil and professional manner. He is highly respected for his excellent and effective work on behalf of clients."

Gary Anthony Anderson headshot
Gary Anderson

Divorce and separation lawyer | Apr 10

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Thomas Mulinazzi is a tremendous defense lawyer and is deeply committed to provide excellent representation to his clients. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing assistance."

Jessica Butkera headshot
Jessica Butkera

Family lawyer | May 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Mulinazzi is a wonderful attorney - he is as diligent as he is compassionate, making him an extraordinary family/domestic law attorney."

Hovanes Margarian headshot
Hovanes Margarian

Unknown lawyer | Nov 09

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Jason Christopher Molidor headshot
Jason Molidor

Family lawyer | Oct 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Mulinazzi is very knowledgeable in his fields and courteous and professional to work with. I would certainly support anyone using Mr. Mulinazzi. I endorse this lawyer."

Jessica E. Zadjura headshot
Jessica Zadjura

Family lawyer | Jul 17

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Thomas is a highly skilled, knowledgeable attorney in the family law arena for whom I have the utmost respect. He is always polite and respectful of his colleagues and the bench as well as a zealous advocate for his clients. I fully endorse him."

Kimberly Thorn Arn headshot
Kimberly Arn

Family lawyer | Jul 08

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Thomas Mulinazzi is an exceptionally skilled attorney with an in depth knowledge of the law. More importantly, however, Mr. Mulinazzi utilizes his skills and knowledge in a respectful, responsible and conscientious manner when representing his family law clients. He is honest and professional."

John M O'Brien headshot
John O'Brien

Child custody lawyer | Jun 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community, I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible."

Josh Friedman headshot
Josh Friedman

Family lawyer | Dec 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Mulinazzi is an outstanding practitioner and an exceptional mentor for young lawyers as well. He possesses a keen knowledge of Maryland Family Law and Civil Procedure."

Christian K. Lassen II headshot
Christian Lassen

Unknown lawyer | Sep 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."

Jeffrey Archer Miller headshot
Jeffrey Miller

Divorce and separation lawyer | Apr 12

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mr. Mulinazzi is everything you could hope for in a family lawyer: experienced, competent, and compassionate. I recommend him without reservation."

Beth L Rogers headshot
Beth Rogers

Family lawyer | Dec 18

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. We have worked as opposing counsel in a high conflict case and were able to reach a very appropriate settlement for all involved. He is knowledgeable and professional."

Neveen H. Kurtom headshot
Neveen Kurtom

Child custody lawyer | Aug 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I know Thomas from his work in the family law arena and I endorse his work. He is knowledgeable and works hard for his clients. I highly recommend him."

Thanh Van Thi Doan headshot
Thanh Doan

Family lawyer | Mar 25

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Thomas and I have known each other since law school. I knew then that Thomas was going to be a talented lawyer and a credit to the profession. He is knowledgeable, compassionate, and well regarded in the legal community. I have all the confidence in Thomas' skills both as litigator and a collaborative practitioner. For these reasons, I have referred clients to him because I know they will be in good hands."

William Paul Blackford headshot
William Blackford

Family lawyer | Mar 24

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Thomas is an extremely bright lawyer who is preeminently knowledgeable about divorce, child custody, and other family law matters (including collaborative divorces) who is also extraordinarily gracious and generous with his time. I highly recommend him to any other lawyer or potential client."

Chad Gregory Spencer headshot
Chad Spencer

Family lawyer | Mar 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"As a fellow attorney in the community, I have consistently been impressed by Mr. Mulinazzi's ability to effectively and zealousy represent his cients while at the same time maintaining consistent cordiality with his peers. I endorse this lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Michael Aidan Dubey headshot
Michael Dubey

Criminal defense lawyer

Michelle Dauksha Pycha headshot
Michelle Pycha

Domestic violence lawyer

Darin L Rumer headshot
Darin Rumer

Divorce and separation lawyer

Kim Stepanuk headshot
Kim Stepanuk

Child custody lawyer

Tracey Levin Perrick headshot
Tracey Perrick

Family lawyer

Sandra Maria Holt headshot
Sandra Holt

Criminal defense lawyer

Jessica E. Zadjura headshot
Jessica Zadjura

Family lawyer

Shelly Maynard Ingram headshot
Shelly Ingram

Divorce and separation lawyer

Alice Elaine dansker Doyle headshot
Alice Doyle

Mediation lawyer

William C Wood headshot
William Wood

Criminal defense lawyer

Diana Beth Denrich headshot
Diana Denrich

Divorce and separation lawyer

Timothy Joseph Mummert headshot
Timothy Mummert

General practice lawyer

Barry Silber headshot
Barry Silber

Mediation lawyer

Kimberly Thorn Arn headshot
Kimberly Arn

Family lawyer

Keith R Havens headshot
Keith Havens

Family lawyer

Chad Gregory Spencer headshot
Chad Spencer

Business lawyer

David Andrew Burkhouse headshot
David Burkhouse

Business lawyer

Thanh Van Thi Doan headshot
Thanh Doan

Immigration lawyer

Colby S. Hall headshot
Colby Hall

Family lawyer

Alisa Gross Cummins headshot
Alisa Cummins

Divorce and separation lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2021

Super Lawyer, Maryland Super Lawyers

2021

Top 100 Attorneys (all practice areas), Maryland Super Lawyers

2020

Best of Howard County, Family Law Office, Baltimore Magazine

2020

Top 100 Attorney (all practice areas), Maryland Super Lawyers

2020

Super Lawyer!, Maryland Super Lawyers

2019

Best Family/Domestic Law Office in Columbia, Best of Columbia Awards

2019

Super Lawyer, SuperLawyers

2019

Top 100 Attorneys in Maryland (all areas), Super Lawyers

2019

2019 Maryland Law Firm of the Year, Pro Bono Resource Center

2019

Client Champion Award, Martindale-Hubbell®

2019

Ten Year Volunteer Award, Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service

2019

Best of Howard County, Family Law Office, Baltimore Magazine

2018

Best Family/Domestic Law Office in Columbia, Best of Columbia

2018

Best of Howard County, Family Law Office, Baltimore Magazine

2018

Top 100 Attorneys in Maryland (all areas), Maryland Super Lawyers

2018

Super Lawyer, Maryland Super Lawyers

2017

Law Office of the Year, Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service

2017

Best of Howard County, Family Law Office, Baltimore Magazine

2017

Top Contributor, Avvo

2017

Top 10 Attorneys, National Academy Of Family Law Attorneys

2017

Award of Excellence, Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service

2017

Super Lawyer, Maryland Super Lawyers

2016

Super Lawyer, Maryland Super Lawyers

2016

Top Ten Attorney, National Academy Of Family Law Attorneys

2015

BEST OF Howard County Family Lawyer, Baltimore Magazine

2015

Client's Choice Award, Avvo.com

2015

Super Lawyer, Maryland Super Lawyers

2014

Client's Choice Award, Avvo.com

2014

SuperLawyer, Maryland Super Lawyers

2014

Best of Howard County - Honorable Mention, Howard County Magazine Reader's Choice Award

2014

Featured Volunteer and Case of the Month, Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service

2013

Client Choice Award, Avvo

2013

Top Contributor, Avvo

2013

Rising Star, Super Lawyers Magazine

2012

Avvo's Client Choice Award 2012, Avvo.com

2012

Featured Volunteer and Case of the Month, Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service

2012

Rising Star, Maryland Super Lawyers

2010

Annual Report Recognition, Maryland Volunteer Lawyer Service

Work Experience

2018 - Present

Blue Ribbon Panelist, Maryland Super Lawyer

2017 - Present

Mediator for Court/NFRC's Family CONNEX Mediation Program, Circuit Court For Howard County, Maryland

2014 - Present

Settlement Facilitator, Circuit Court for Baltimore City

2007 - Present

Court-Appointed Best Interests Attorney for Children, Circuit Courts for Howard County, Baltimore County, and Baltimore City

2007 - Present

Founder, Mulinazzi Law Office, LLC

2020 - 2020

Board Member, Section Czar, Howard County Bar Association

2005 - 2006

Associate, Weinberg & Schwartz

2002 - 2004

Judicial Law Clerk, Circuit Court for Baltimore City

Associations

2022 - Present

Howard County Bar Association

President-Elect

2016 - Present

National Academy of Family Law Attorneys

Member

2008 - Present

Inns of Court, Howard County

Member

2007 - Present

International Academy of Collaborative Professionals

Member

2007 - Present

Howard County Collaborative Profressionals

Member

2003 - Present

Maryland State Bar Association

Member

2019 - 2021

Howard County Bar Association

Judicial Merits Committe

2010 - 2011

Howard County Bar Association, Family Law Section

Co-chair

Sample of Legal Cases

Leveling the Playing Field

Client wins custody

$85,000 in attorney's fees

Increased child support, $85,000 in attorney's fees, and denial of adverse party's claims

Immediate Child Support

$2,500 in support same day!

Enforcing Settlement Agreement

Victory and 100% Attorney's Fees

Voluntary Impoverishment Proven

Victory and 85% attorney's fees!

Alimony for disabled client

12 years of alimony for client

Long term alimony for homemaker

Long term alimony acquired

Assets Protected

Huge reduction in payment to spouse

Five Attorney Fee Awards in one case

Significant Alimony to pay for education

Spouse refused to split assets

Satisfied Client gets her share and alimony

Mutual Consent Divorce

Quick Divorce with property split

Immediate Order/Exceptions

Sole Custody to Client

Parent runs away with kids

Children returned to client

17 years of alimony

financial security for client

Pre-marital equity determination

Fair percentage agreed upon

Building trust and solutions for the family

Shared Custody/Amicable Result

Emergency Custody - out of state

Children protected from abusive household

Alimony Award

100% Atty Fees & big alimony award

More time for deserving Dad

Dad's time w/daughter doubles

Relocation -- Best Interests Attorney

Mom able to relocate quickly

child support increased

child support increased and attorney fees

Business protected

Client keeps business/saves litigation costs

Collaborative Case Success

"step down" alimony helps both spouses

$7,500 saved + future contribution

$7,500 reduction in back child support

Alimony Denied

Opposing Party denied alimony

Protecting child from parent w/mental health issues

Protected child, attorney's fees,

100% Legal Fees Awarded

Court awards all relief requested

Defending false allegations

Custody, $2,000 interim attorney fees

Best Interests Attorney

Reunification process

Uncontested Divorce

Amicable uncontested divorce in 19 days

Defending Custody Modification

Successful defense and 100% attorney's fees

Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Findings

Emergency Custody awarded

Proving Child Neglect

Father wins custody and protects child

Alimony for Husband

$2,400/month in alimony for husband

Appeal of Attorney Fees and Child Support

Law Office wins on all issues

Opposing party hiding all income

$2,300/month child support and 100% of attorney's fees

Use and Possession of Family Home

Full three years of use + possession

Cruelty of Treatment/Vicious Conduct

Divorce granted - no contact by abuser

Business Valuation/Marital Share

Negotiated settlement - savings and dsicretion for client

Annulment and Custody

Full custody and 100% attorney fee award

Changing custody when CPS report inconclusive

Child is safe and custody modified

Pendente Lite

Court Orders 4x the money opposing counsel was offering

Emergency Child Visitation

Immediate weekly and overnight access for terminally ill Father

Custody Modification defendant against other side earning 21x more $$

$35,000 child support arrears and $10,000/month future child support

Refusal to pay for child's expenses

Contempt Finding and 100% Attorney's Fees

Custody Decision on Appeal

Appellate Victory and finality for the client

Relocation

Client able to relocate with child

StepParent Adoption

Successful adoption - happy family!

Preserved Share of Joint Venture

Preserved Share of Medical Practice

Collaborative Divorce Settlement

Preserved Business -- Collaborative Settlement

See More Legal Cases

Education

2003

University of Maryland School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1995

Towson University

Masters of Art in Teaching

1991

Dickinson College

B.A.

Speaking Engagements

2018

Self Help Workshop

Navigating Divorce Cases in Circuit Court

2016

Self Help Workshop

Navigating Self Representation in Domestic Cases

2015

Best Practices for New/Pro Bono Lawyers

Effective Mgmt. of Service of Process, Default, and difficult Defendants

2014

2012

Best Interests Attorney Training Representing Children in Divorce/Custody Disputes

2010

Family Law Course

Best Interests Attorney for Minor Children

2010

Equal Justice Conference, Baltimore, MD

Pro Bono Representation in Domestic Cases

2009

Monthly Educational Session

Identifying and Managing Personal/Professional Biases in cases

2008

PBRC Family Law Training Series

Effective Representation in Child Custody Cases

Publications

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution