Divorce can be overwhelming, and it is far more than just another legal issue. For most divorcing couples, it is also a financial and, of course, an emotional one. We are here to provide you with the clarity you need during this confusing and stressful time. Contact an experienced Baltimore, Maryland divorce lawyer from Sheri Hoidra Law Office, LLC today to learn more about the divorce process in Maryland and how our legal team can help you through it.
Divorce Lawyer Helping Clients in Baltimore, Maryland through the Process
In many ways, divorce is the end of a chapter in a person’s life. However, it is also the beginning of a new chapter. Hiring a skilled Baltimore, Maryland family law attorney can help ensure you start this next chapter of your life on the right foot.
Maryland is a “No-Fault” State
In the state of Maryland, spouses seeking divorces can either file a “no-fault” divorce or choose to cite specific fault grounds. To file a no-fault divorce, one spouse will simply claim that they have been living apart for at least one year. In most cases, it’s best to file a no-fault divorce, and for several reasons. To start, citing specific fault grounds, such as adultery, insanity, cruelty, or desertion, will give your spouse a chance to respond to your allegations. This typically drags out the divorce process, costs both spouses more time and money, and, moreover, seldom works to benefit the spouse citing fault grounds. That said, just because a spouse files a no-fault divorce doesn’t mean they necessarily agree on all terms of their divorce.
You should also note the distinction between “absolute” and “limited” divorce. An absolute divorce in Maryland is a real and final divorce and can only be attained if the spouses meet one of the grounds for divorce, such as living apart for one year if filing a no-fault divorce. That said, if you’d like to file a no-fault divorce but you haven’t lived separately for one year, you can still file a limited divorce, which will allow one spouse to receive temporary support and will prime you for an absolute divorce.
Contested Divorce Vs. Uncontested Divorce
An uncontested divorce is when spouses agree on all terms of their divorce, such as child custody and property distribution. On the other hand, a contested divorce is when spouses cannot agree on the terms of their divorce. Contested divorces are more common than uncontested divorces, as many spouses are simply unwilling to compromise or at least won’t compromise enough to work out an agreement that satisfies both spouses.
Common Divorce Terms
When a couple is in a contested divorce, they will have to go through litigation, wherein they (along with their attorneys) will make their arguments for the divorce terms they desire. A judge will ultimately decide on all divorce-related terms spouses cannot agree upon, such as the following:
- Child Custody
- Child Support
- Alimony
- Property Distribution
Why You Need an Attorney
Divorce is a complex issue, and should never be handled without an experienced Baltimore, Maryland family law attorney. Whether you’re in a contested or an uncontested divorce, having the right attorney on your side can make a world of a difference. If you’re in a contested divorce, you already have a lot at stake. If your divorce is currently uncontested, it can turn contested at any time. With the future of your family and finances on the line, it’s simply best to proceed with competent and compassionate legal counsel.
Contact a Baltimore, Maryland Divorce Lawyer
Sheri Hoidra Law Office, LLC takes pride in helping clients through difficult times. If you’re going through the divorce process or you are about to, the most important thing you can do is hire a seasoned attorney who cares. Contact Sheri Hoidra Law Office, LLC today to schedule your initial consultation with our firm.
