Divorce Lawyer

As a divorce lawyer couples rely on can share, choosing divorce is not often an easy decision to make. Most people may grapple with this decision for a significant time before finally taking action. However, when one or both people in the relationship are unhappy and efforts to repair the relationship are unsuccessful, divorce may be the appropriate option. Despite this, it’s important to note that even when two people agree with the decision, the process is still incredibly challenging and often deeply emotional. Dividing a once-shared life can be painful and even result in discord amongst parties, especially when they do not agree on critical decisions that will be required during the process. As our friends at Peeples Law Group can attest, when working with a firm you should be choosing them to help protect your interests and assist in navigating the legal process. The following are common questions divorcing couples often have regarding divorce and the legal road ahead. 

How should divorcing couples initiate the divorce process?

First, before filing for divorce in Maryland, the parties must be state residents. To initiate the process, one party will begin by determining whether they will file for an absolute or limited divorce. Several forms will need to be filed to start, which must be filed in the county where the married couple is living. One person typically files, and the other person is then provided with a copy of the paperwork, also known as the service of process. 

Does Maryland require grounds for divorce?

Yes, grounds for divorce are required when pursuing the process. However, it’s important to note that in Maryland, filers can choose to pursue either a no-fault or fault divorce. A no-fault divorce means that it is considered uncontested, meaning that neither party blames the other. The reason listed is called “irreconcilable differences.” A fault divorce is when one party claims the other’s action caused the marriage to dissolve. However, fault divorces can be more complicated, contentious, and take longer to resolve. Acceptable reasons for a fault divorce include:

• Infidelity
• Abandonment
• Imprisonment
• Insanity
• Abuse/Domestic Violence

What are irreconcilable differences?

In no-fault divorces, irreconcilable differences are the reason that is provided. Irreconcilable differences mean that parties can no longer remain in the marriage and that there is no chance of resolving the marriage. In addition, no-fault divorces are when neither party blames the other for the divorce. While irreconcilable differences may be referred to differently in other states, it essentially means the same thing. 

Do couples have to wait a period after filing for divorce before the divorce is finalized?

For an uncontested divorce, there is no waiting period after filing. Depending upon the couple’s ability to develop agreements, it’s possible to reach a resolution in as little as a few months. The process can take much longer when a divorce is contested because a judge may need to weigh in on the case before reaching a resolution.

What are common reasons that a divorce may take longer than average?

One of the primary reasons divorce can take longer is when there is discord among the parties. It comes as no surprise that divorce can be emotionally fueled, but when couples are unable to reach an agreement or one party does not wish to move forward with the divorce, it can cause the process to take longer. It’s important to note that divorcing couples must work together to form agreements. Regardless of whether a person wants a divorce, it’s essential to remember that a divorce cannot be stopped. While delaying the process can certainly slow it down, in the long run, this can only be costly and result in people walking away with decisions that the court may hand down. 

Divorce is a time of transition for couples and their children, one that will take some time to adjust to. However, prolonged divorce can take even longer for families to adjust to their new normal. To ensure the smoothest process possible, divorcing couples should consider assistance from a divorce lawyer in their area.