Understanding the Grounds for Divorce in Maryland
If you and your spouse are considering ending your marriage, you wont get very far without proving grounds for divorce in Maryland. Essentially, grounds for a divorce in Maryland show the courts that you have a justifiable reason to end the marriage. In fact, you need it before you can even attempt to file for divorce.
But beware, grounds for divorce in Maryland present a special set of concerns. For instance, if you are unable to prove your grounds for divorce and just make accusations instead, Maryland courts can actually rule against you, which may cause you to incur penalties such as your spouses attorney fees and other incidentals.
With this in mind, youll want to hire a Glen Burnie divorce attorney as you set about your Maryland divorce, to make sure you avoid costly mistakes. In addition, youll want to discuss the circumstances surrounding your marriage and its breakdown to determine how you should proceed. Your Glen Burnie divorce attorney can also advise you on your 2 options for divorce in Maryland, and what grounds youll have to prove to be able to file.
Grounds for a Limited Divorce in Maryland
A limited divorce in Maryland is less stringent in terms of what grounds you must have in order to file. A Glen Burnie divorce attorney will also caution you that this form of divorce is not final. A limited divorce allows the state to legally recognize that you and your husband live apart, but youre still considered legally married.
You and your spouse may file for a limited divorce on the following grounds:
cruelty;
excessively harsh behavior toward spouse or a minor child;
desertion; and
mutual, voluntary separation.
Grounds for an Absolute Divorce in Maryland
An absolute divorce in Maryland effectively dissolves your marriage. This means you can remarry and divide your property.
Proving grounds for an absolute divorce in Maryland requires showing one of the following occurred:
adultery;
desertion (a year or longer);
cruelty and harsh conduct;
one-year separation (with separation agreement);
criminal conviction (felony or misdemeanor);
2-year separation (without separation agreement); and/or
insanity.
Proving grounds for divorce in Maryland can be a time-consuming and exhausting process. Its best to leave your case in the hands of a Glen Burnie divorce attorney, who can most efficiently handle your case and the intricacies of the states divorce laws.
Challenges to Proving Grounds for Divorce in Maryland
Proving grounds for divorce in Maryland is easier said than done. Take for instance, proving adultery as a grounds for divorce in Maryland. While you dont actually have to prove sexual intercourse occurred, you will have to show that someone has the likelihood and the opportunity to commit adultery. This requires substantial evidence and witness corroboration, which is no small feat.
This is known as one of the fault grounds for divorce in Maryland, which can have a profound impact on any Maryland child custody arrangements as well as alimony. This is why youll often have to prove the infidelity occurred, as the other party will likely not fess up, seeing as doing so would have financial repercussions.
Regardless of whether youre trying to show adultery, desertion or even verbal abuse, proving grounds for divorce in Maryland can be difficult, especially if you dont have experience collecting this type of evidence. When you mix the multitude of emotions and stressors with which you are likely dealing with at this time, trying to identify, gather and demonstrate proof may not result in the best outcome for your divorce case.
Seeking Help from a Glen Burnie Divorce Attorney
A Glen Burnie divorce attorney, on the other hand, will have notable experience in the divorce arena and has likely dealt with cases that are similar to yours. A Glen Burnie divorce attorney can also evaluate your case with a clear head, something that may be difficult to do when you are so closely involved.
A Glen Burnie divorce attorney can handle these details for you, and can also advise you of what to do and not to do, as your actions during this time can affect the grounds for divorce in Maryland, and ultimately, your future.
Contacting a Glen Burnie Divorce Attorney
The Glen Burnie divorce attorneys at Jimeno Gray understand the nuances of divorce, child custody and alimony in Maryland. Our Glen Burnie divorce attorney team is ready to help you with your family law needs. Contact us today for a consultation 410-590-9401.’