If a divorce is what you seek, making it happen requires following a specific legal process. It starts with filling out forms, such as a Civil Domestic Case Information Report. Once the documentation is complete, the person you are divorcing must receive word of your...
Divorce
Maryland legislation brings major shift in divorce process
Recently, Maryland passed legislation that makes it a no-fault divorce state. This legislation is a major shift in the state's divorce laws and has significant implications for Maryland couples seeking to dissolve their marriages. Under the new law, couples seeking a...
Minimizing the long-term impact your divorce has on your life
Splitting from your spouse may drastically improve your life and provide opportunities for growth and success. At the same time, you may grapple with the effects of your divorce for some time. Despite the uncertainty of your current situation, there are things you can...
When can I sign an Affidavit of Parentage?
For a Maryland court to award you custody of your child, the state must recognize you as the legal father of your son or daughter. This may not be a problem if you and your spouse were in a marital union during the birth of your child. Otherwise, you may need to sign...
Understanding divorce paper service requirements in Maryland
Service of the papers is a key step in the divorce process and every state has its own regulations about how that service happens. In some states, the Sheriff’s department or a process server must serve papers. In Maryland, you have a few other options. Understand the...
How do the courts handle student loan debt during a divorce?
One of the biggest stressors during a divorce is how to split your property, assets and debt. Maryland is an equitable distribution state, which means that the court does not divide the property 50/50 but instead divides property on the idea of fairness. In some...
What are three stages of divorce?
When you go through a divorce, you go through phases similar to the stages of grief. Even when divorce is the only decision, it is still a difficult life change. To move forward, it helps to understand some of the stages you may experience. While no two couples have...
How may couples divide their property in a Maryland divorce?
Maryland divorce courts follow the equitable distribution method, which means that a judge could decide to divide marital property based on fairness. As noted by Forbes, any asset, item or debt acquired in marriage classifies as marital property. You and your...
Getting ready for divorce later in life
The divorce process can bring up many concerns and stressors, regardless of your age, individual circumstances and the approach you take to divorce. However, at an older age you likely face a number of unique issues that can make it particularly important to plan...
3 ways to stay mentally healthy during your divorce
Even though ending your marriage may be the right decision for you and everyone else in your family, divorce can take a significant toll on anyone's mental health. In fact, according to Psychology Today, divorce tends to be about as hard on a person as the death of a...