About Geoffrey S.

Geoffrey S — Platnick practices family law at Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield, located in Potomac, Maryland. He joined the Maryland State Bar in 2003, starting a dedicated legal career focused on family law issues. His practice primarily involves divorce and domestic violence cases, areas that require both sensitivity and legal acumen. Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield is well-regarded in the community for its commitment to providing comprehensive legal services to families navigating complex issues, making it a trusted resource for clients in need. Geoffrey earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from SUNY Buffalo Law School in 2002. Prior to that, he obtained a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Communications from West Virginia University in 1991.

This educational background laid a strong foundation for his legal career, equipping him with essential skills for effective advocacy in family law matters. His ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly has proven invaluable in his practice, particularly in high-stakes situations involving custody disputes and divorce negotiations. Since the start of his legal career, Geoffrey has taken on various roles within the firm, progressing from trial lawyer to managing shareholder. Most of his work involves representing clients in divorce proceedings, custody disputes, and domestic violence cases. Each case often requires careful negotiation and, when necessary, litigation to protect his clients' rights and interests. His experience as a trial lawyer enhances his ability to navigate the courtroom effectively, ensuring that each case is handled with the utmost professionalism and attention to detail.

Before becoming managing shareholder in 2021, Geoffrey served as an equity shareholder and senior associate at the firm. His leadership roles within Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield demonstrate his dedication not only to his clients but also to his colleagues. He has contributed to the legal community through various leadership positions, including serving as co-chair of the Family Law Section of the Montgomery County Bar Association. This involvement shows his commitment to advancing the field of family law and supporting fellow practitioners. In addition to his legal practice, Geoffrey is an active member of several legal associations, including the Maryland State Bar Association and the Washington, DC Bar Association. His participation in these organizations allows him to stay current with developments in family law, ensuring that he and his colleagues provide informed and effective representation.

He also engages in continuing legal education initiatives, which further enhances his expertise. Recognized for his leadership within the Montgomery County Bar Foundation, Geoffrey has established himself as a respected figure in family law. He continues to advocate for his clients with compassion and expertise, striving to achieve the best possible outcomes in their cases.

Education

SUNY Buffalo Law School

J.D. (2002) | Law

1999

West Virginia University

B.A. (1991) | Communications

1987

Languages

English (Spoken, Written)

Experience

Managing Shareholder

Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield
2021

Equity Shareholder

Shulman, Rogers, Gandal, Pordy & Ecker
2009

Senior Associate

Strickler, Sachitano & Hatfield
2007

Associate

Gimmel, Weiman, Ersek & Blomberg
2005

Trial Lawyer

Office of the Lawyer General for the District of Columbia
2003

Accepted Jurisdictions

Maryland
District of Columbia

Court Admissions

Maryland Court of Appeals State Supreme Court
District of Columbia Court of Appeals State Supreme Court

Types of Cases Handled

family law divorce domestic violence

Legal Services Scope

Negotiation Litigation

Certifications & Awards

Licensed to Practice Law

Washington, DC Court of Appeals

Licensed to Practice Law

Maryland Court of Appeals

Professional Associations

Maryland, Bar Foundation, Inc. Montgomery County

Bar Leader 2012 - Current

Montgomery County Bar Association, Family Law Section

has membership 2005 - Current

Washington, DC Bar Association

has membership 2003 - Current

American Bar Association

has membership 2002 - Current

Maryland State Bar Association

has membership 2002 - Current

Montgomery County Bar Association

has membership 2002 - Current

Montgomery County Bar Association, Family Law Section

Co-chair 2009 - 2011

Montgomery County Bar Association, Family Law Section, Continuing Legal Education Committee

Co-chair 2007 - 2009

Office Locations

Main Office

 1201 Seven Locks Road Suite 360-7A Potomac MD 20854

Videos

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What are the differences between joint and sole child custody?
1
What are the differences between joint and sole child custody?
Can a court order a spouse to transfer property to the other spouse at the time of divorce?
2
Can a court order a spouse to transfer property to the other spouse at the time of divorce?
Can a prenuptial or post-nuptial agreement override normal property division and support rules?
3
Can a prenuptial or post-nuptial agreement override normal property division and support rules?
Can my child s preference be considered during a custody case?
4
Can my child s preference be considered during a custody case?
How are retirement assets divided during divorce?
5
How are retirement assets divided during divorce?
How Are Valuable, Tangible Assets Valued During a Divorce?
6
How Are Valuable, Tangible Assets Valued During a Divorce?
How can our assets be fairly divided during divorce?
7
How can our assets be fairly divided during divorce?
How Do Child Support Guideline Calculations Work?
8
How Do Child Support Guideline Calculations Work?
Is Maryland an equitable-distribution or a community-property state?
9
Is Maryland an equitable-distribution or a community-property state?
What happens if divorcing spouses want to keep the same property?
10
What happens if divorcing spouses want to keep the same property?
What is the difference between marital and non-marital property?
11
What is the difference between marital and non-marital property?
What steps can you take to preserve your inheritance during divorce?
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What steps can you take to preserve your inheritance during divorce?