About David Bulitt
A Family Law Practice Built on Real Experience
David is a shareholder at Joseph, Greenwald and Laake, PA, one of Maryland’s most established law firms. His practice covers the full range of family law issues, including:
- Divorce and separation
- Child custody and parenting disputes
- Alimony and spousal support
- Property division and complex asset distribution
- High conflict custody matters
- Cases involving children with special needs
He regularly handles cases where the financial or emotional stakes are higher than usual. That may include long term marriages, significant assets, or deeply contested custody disputes. These are situations where experience matters, and where a thoughtful approach can make a meaningful difference.
In addition to representing clients, David is often asked by local courts to mediate complicated divorce and custody matters. He is also appointed by the courts to serve as a Best Interests Attorney for children. This role is reserved for particularly difficult custody cases, where the court needs an independent voice focused on what is best for the child. It is one of the more demanding responsibilities in family law, and one that reflects a high level of trust from the court.
Located in Rockville, Maryland
Local Knowledge That Matters
Family law is not one size fits all. The rules, procedures, and even the pace of a case can vary between Maryland courts and Washington, DC. Judges may approach similar issues differently depending on the jurisdiction, and small details can have a real impact on how a case unfolds.
David’s practice spans both Maryland and DC, which is especially valuable in a region where families often live, work, and raise children across jurisdiction lines. A case might involve a home in Bethesda, a workplace in DC, and a custody schedule that crosses both.
He regularly represents clients in:
- Montgomery County, including Bethesda, Rockville, Silver Spring, Potomac, and surrounding areas
- Washington, DC
- Other Maryland jurisdictions including Howard County, Frederick County, and Anne Arundel County
That local familiarity allows him to give advice that is not just legally sound, but also realistic based on how courts actually operate.
A Practical Approach to Difficult Situations
Family law cases can quickly become overwhelming. There is often pressure to react, to push harder, or to escalate conflict. David takes a different approach.
“I treat clients like I would want to be treated by listening, understanding, educating and advising.”
That mindset shapes how he works with clients from the start. He focuses on helping people understand their options, think through the consequences of decisions, and move forward with a clear strategy.
Some cases require litigation. Others benefit from negotiation, mediation, or a more collaborative process. Many involve a combination of approaches over time. David helps clients choose the path that fits their situation, rather than forcing every case into the same mold.
Experience with Complex and High Conflict Cases
Over the years, David has handled a wide range of challenging family law matters. His experience includes:
- Resolving complex alimony cases after long term marriages
- Guiding high conflict custody disputes toward workable parenting arrangements
- Handling property division involving multiple assets and financial considerations
- Supporting families with children who have special needs
For example, he recently resolved a complex alimony matter involving a spouse who had been out of the workforce for many years despite having a strong educational background. In another case, he helped a couple in a difficult custody dispute reach an agreement through mediation that prioritized the needs of their children.
These are not just legal outcomes, they are turning points in people’s lives.
Education
University of Baltimore School of Law, JD, 1986
University of Maryland, College Park, BA, 1983
Admissions
Maryland
District of Columbia
United States District Court for the District of Maryland
United States Supreme Court
David’s work has been consistently by several publications including:
Recognition and Professional Honors
- Best Lawyers in America, recognized from 2008 through 2026
- Potomac Lifestyles magazine – Family Lawyer of the Year 2023, 2025
- Super Lawyers in Maryland and Washington, DC, recognized from 2006 through 2026
- Bethesda Magazine Top Attorneys in Family and Divorce Law
- Maryland Daily Record Leader in the Law (Leader in the Law for Alternate Dispute Resolution)
- AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell
He has also been repeatedly named among the top divorce lawyers in the Washington, DC area by both Washingtonian Magazine and Bethesda Magazine.
These recognitions reflect long term consistency and respect within the legal community, not just short term visibility.
Why Clients Choose David Bulitt
Clients are often looking for more than just legal knowledge. They want someone who can guide them through a difficult process without making it harder than it needs to be.
David is often chosen because he:
Focuses on practical outcomes, not unnecessary conflict
Understands both Maryland and DC family law systems
Handles complex financial and custody issues with care
Keeps the long term picture in mind
Communicates clearly and directly
As one client put it, they were looking for someone who could see the big picture, not just a way to win. That is the role David aims to fill in every case.
A More Personal Side
David was the first member of his family to earn a professional degree, an experience that shaped his work ethic and outlook early on. Outside the office, he spends time writing, staying active, and enjoying time with family.
He is a dog lover, enjoys pickleball and golf, and values time with his grandchildren. Those personal interests may not show up in court filings, but they are part of what makes him relatable to clients who are trying to rebuild and move forward in their own lives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Lawyer David Bulitt
Does David Bulitt handle both Maryland and DC cases?
Yes. He is licensed in both jurisdictions and regularly represents clients across the region.
What types of cases does he focus on?
Divorce, custody, alimony, property division, and complex family law matters.
What is a Best Interests Attorney?
A court appointed attorney who represents what is best for the child in high conflict custody cases.
Does he handle high asset divorce cases?
Yes. His practice includes complex financial and property division matters.