Hollie S. Cutler, Esq.

A graduate of the University of Maryland and the University of San Diego School of Law, Cutler returned from California to Annapolis in 1981 and focuses specifically on family law involving matters of separation, divorce, child custody, and support. Cutler primarily serves Anne Arundel, Prince George’s, Calvert, and Queen Anne’s counties. Cutler is a trained mediator, both private and court appointed, who helps clients reach agreements in matters that include custody, visitation, and child support, as well as other general disputes.

In addition to litigation, Cutler is certified by the Maryland Collaborative Law Association in the practice of collaborative law, a method used to resolve disputes without going to court. Each party has their own attorney, and the attorneys and clients work together to come to a resolution. Conflicts can range from child access and business evaluation, to support issues and division of property. The parties and their attorneys enter into a Participation Agreement which defines the environment in which the parties and their counsel commit to reach a mutual agreement, without court intervention. The end result lessens the impact of divorce on all involved, which is of particular importance for children.

“I saw mediation and collaborative law as a way for people to decide their own fate,” says Cutler, and adds that she finds it to be very rewarding after so many years of litigation. “But in the event that the collaborative process is not appropriate, or a mediated or other settlement cannot be reached, I am more than willing to take the issue to court to ensure the best possible outcome for my client.”

Cutler has worked with the Anne Arundel County Court Appointed Special Advocate Program (CASA) and served on their advisory board. Cutler has also taught numerous courses at the University of Maryland, College Park, in addition to teaching Business Law at Anne Arundel Community College. She is also a speaker for the program “Legal Aspects of Divorce and Separation” at the YWCA.

Cutler is an accomplished horsewoman, regularly competing in dressage competitions, and a member of the Potomac Valley Dressage Association. Dressage is a form of riding in which horses are trained to perform delicate and complicated athletic maneuvers in response to subtle body signals given by their rider. Cutler competes at the Prix St. George’s level with her 16.2 hand Oldenburg, Anton. Cutler lives on a farm in Harwood with her husband and their eight-year old daughter, who is also an ardent horse fan.