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Divorce A Fierce Advocate On Your Side

Divorce Attorney in Queen Anne’s County

Contested and Uncontested Divorce on Kent Island

couple divorcing in Maryland

Divorce is one of the most stressful experiences you can go through.

It involves major decisions about almost every aspect of your marriage, from child custody arrangements to what will happen to:

  • The family home
  • Your pets
  • Your finances
  • And more

Few people realize how complicated the divorce process can be until confronted with its many questions, challenges, and anxieties.

Because of the emotional toll divorce can take, it is imperative to have legal counsel from a Queen Anne’s County divorce attorney who knows the statutes, case law, procedures, and local courts. At Matthew Penick Law, we have helped hundreds of people navigate this complex family law matter with outstanding knowledge, service, and commitment to their specific needs and goals.

Get proven legal representation! Contact Matthew Penick Law online or call F:P:Sub:Phone} to schedule a free consultation with our experienced Queen Anne’s County divorce lawyer.

Divorce Laws in Maryland

Maryland law refers to divorce as “absolute divorce.” This is opposed to a “limited divorce,” which is the equivalent of a legal separation. Like other states, Maryland has adopted a no-fault option.

What Are the Requirements for a No-Fault Divorce?

In a no-fault divorce, neither party has to prove any wrongdoing. The requirement for a no-fault divorce is generally a 12-month period of living separate and apart, after which the divorce action may be filed.

What Are Fault Grounds for Divorce?

Maryland also offers fault grounds for divorce, which include:

  • Adultery
  • Desertion
  • Cruelty and vicious conduct
  • A criminal conviction
  • And insanity

When filing under fault grounds, you will have to prove your allegations to the court. A fault-based divorce action could impact alimony, custody, and other facets of your divorce order.

Contested vs Uncontested Divorce in Maryland

In Maryland, a divorce can be contested or uncontested:

  • Contested Divorce: If both spouses cannot come to a mutual agreement on the terms of their divorce, then they will have to file as contested and attend a court hearing. Issues that may be disagreed upon include child custody, support, and visitation. A contested divorce usually takes longer than an uncontested case, but it can be helpful if you are trying to discover things such as hidden assets.
  • Uncontested Divorce: If both spouses agree to all terms of the divorce, then it is deemed uncontested and may not require a court hearing. These cases are usually much shorter in length as well.

Addressing All Aspects of Your Divorce in Queen Anne's County

In any divorce, you and your spouse must resolve all the issues pertinent to your situation before your divorce can be finalized.

These include:

  • Alimony
  • Child custody and visitation
  • Child support
  • The division and distribution of marital property

Our divorce lawyer in Queen Anne’s County can help you address each of these matters and resolve them favorably. Though we strive to resolve divorce disputes through mediation, negotiation, and other means of alternative dispute resolution, we are never afraid to take a case to court when necessary.

Learn more about how we can help with your divorce. Call Matthew Penick Law at (410) 618-0863 or by contacting us online now!

Maryland Divorce FAQ

Do You Need a Lawyer to Get a Divorce in Maryland?

You are not required to have legal representation for divorce in Maryland, but it is very unwise to try and represent yourself in a divorce. Only a divorce attorney will have the thorough understanding of Maryland divorce laws and the experience needed to ensure that you get the best possible results regarding property division, support, and custody.

Additional reasons to hire a lawyer for divorce include:

  • If your spouse retains legal defense, it is in your best interests to do so as well
  • An attorney can take the load of the paperwork and court documents off your plate
  • If you suspect your spouse is hiding assets
  • If your case involves minor children, or children about to be born

We can strategically construct your divorce case that prioritizes your short and long-term goals. Our objective is to save you both time and headache. Call today for a consultation to discuss your options!

How Long Does it Take to Get a Divorce in Maryland?

Divorce cases can take anywhere from 30 days to years to settle. Uncontested divorce cases are quicker than litigated (contested) divorce cases. If you and your spouse are able to agree on the details of your divorce without going to court, you can save a significant amount of time and money.

How Long Do Contested Divorce Cases Take?

Contested divorces can take months — or even years, in complex cases — since they are disputed and depend on busy court schedules. Every divorce is unique, so it is not possible to know exactly how long your divorce will take. Learn more about this by calling our Maryland divorce attorney for your free consultation.

Do You Have to Be Separated Before Divorce in MD?

If you are filing for a grounds-based divorce, then you do not need to live separately first. If you are filing for a no-fault divorce based on separation, however, then you must have lived apart without sexual intimacy for at least 12 months.

What is the difference between absolute divorce and limited divorce in Maryland?

In Maryland, an absolute divorce is the legal termination of a marriage, allowing the parties to remarry. It addresses all legal issues such as property division, alimony, and child custody. A limited divorce, on the other hand, is similar to a legal separation where the marriage is not fully dissolved, and the parties cannot remarry. It may be granted when spouses do not have grounds for an absolute divorce and need the court to address issues like child support and custody while they are separated.

Can I file for divorce in Queen Anne's County if my spouse is at fault?

Yes, you can file for a fault-based divorce in Queen Anne's County if you believe your spouse is at fault for the breakdown of the marriage. Grounds for a fault-based divorce in Maryland include adultery, desertion, cruelty, vicious conduct, certain criminal convictions, and insanity. Proving fault can affect various aspects of the divorce settlement, such as alimony and custody. However, it's important to consult with a divorce attorney to understand the implications and legal requirements of filing a fault-based divorce.

How can a Queen Anne's County divorce attorney assist with child custody and visitation issues?

A divorce attorney in Queen Anne's County can provide invaluable assistance with child custody and visitation issues by helping you understand your legal rights and options, negotiating custody terms that prioritize the best interests of your children, and representing you in court if necessary. They can also help establish a parenting plan that outlines the responsibilities of each parent and create a visitation schedule that works for all parties involved.

What are the benefits of an uncontested divorce in Maryland?

An uncontested divorce in Maryland offers several benefits, including a typically faster and less expensive process since both parties agree on all terms and may not require a court hearing. It also tends to be less stressful and allows for more privacy, as the details of the divorce agreement are not argued in a public courtroom. Additionally, uncontested divorces often result in more amicable post-divorce relationships, which is particularly beneficial if children are involved.

Call today at (410) 618-0863 to consult with an experienced divorce attorney in Queen Anne's County, MD.

Why Choose Matthew Penick Law?

  • Easy & Quick Communication & Free Initial Consultations
  • Competent Legal Representation in the Community
  • Outstanding Legal & Negotiating Skills
  • Personalized, Client-Centered Approach

Contact Us Today!

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