Annapolis and Glen Burnie Family Law
Ending a relationship is never easy and asking for a Maryland separation agreement can seem confusing and intimidating on top of an already stressful time. If you are seeking a separation, you should contact an Annapolis separation lawyer to learn about your options.
Terminating your marriage is a serious issue that can have long-lasting emotional and financial effects. If you are considering a Maryland separation agreement there are some factors to keep in mind that may help you make the right decision. It is important to take time to evaluate your relationship and situation before taking this critical step in your life.
Questions to ask yourself Before filing a Maryland Separation Agreement
You should ask yourself the following questions to make sure a separation is right for you:
What is the motivation in seeking a separation?
Is this what you really want?
Have you exhausted all of your options for reconciliation such as couples therapy?
What will be the consequences of separating or not separating?
Are you or your spouse involved in an affair? and
and Has the relationship turned abusive?
If you and your spouse have no children, shared debt or property you may not need a Maryland separation agreement and can, instead, opt for a non-fault divorce. If you have considered all of these situations and are ready to ask your partner for a separation you should contact an Annapolis separation lawyer to get started.
While Maryland doesnt have a certain legal procedure for separations, it is a good idea to have an Annapolis separation lawyer help you with this process.
A written document is much easier to enforce than verbal agreements. Married couples can enter into a Maryland separation agreement while they are waiting to go through the procedure of divorce or even after a divorce has taken place. Having a separation agreement can help expedite and ease the process of dividing your assets as a couple.
Issues that a Maryland Separation Agreement Can Help Resolve
With a separation agreement, you may be able to resolve:
division of property including real estate, personal possessions and even pets;
alimony payments and schedules;
shared financial debt; and
and custody of children and child support.
Although it is not required that you file your Maryland separation agreement in court, your agreement will be legally binding and can be enforced by the law.
However, the court cannot alter any conditions of your separation agreement aside from issues revolving around a minor like child custody and support. You should seek the assistance of an Annapolis separation lawyer if you need to go back and change any part of your agreement.
This agreement could also be used in court as part of an eventual divorce. You can essentially think of this document as a road-map of what will happen to your property, financial affairs and family matters once you have decided to separate.
If your children are involved in the process, and are of appropriate age, you may want to solicit the childrens feedback and opinions in making custody and child support arrangements.
Having clearly set guidelines and rules regarding your separation can make the situation easier to bear and will help in avoiding conflicts with your spouse or family that can erupt during this difficult and emotional time.
This road-map can serve as a reference when you run into a difficult situation you are not sure how to handle and/or as a way to back up your actions if questioned by your spouse.
Contacting an Annapolis Separation Lawyer
Telling your spouse you want a Maryland separation agreement can be difficult. The Annapolis separation lawyers at Jimeno & Gray understand the nuances of divorce, child custody and alimony in Maryland. Our Annapolis separation lawyer team is ready to help you with your family law needs. Contact us today for a consultation 410-590-9401.
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