Table of Contents

• Fastest Way to Get a Divorce
• How Long Do You Have to Be Separated?
• Cost to File for Divorce
• Grounds for Immediate Divorce

Fastest Way to Get a Divorce

Getting a divorce in Maryland is an emotionally difficult process, and can be complicated depending on your particular circumstances. The fastest way to get a divorce in Maryland is to file for an uncontested divorce. With an uncontested divorce, both you and your spouse agree to the terms of the divorce, as outlined in a Marital Settlement Agreement. This agreement outlines the terms of the divorce, including child custody and visitation, child support, alimony, and division of property. Once you and your spouse have agreed to these terms, you can both sign the agreement and file it with the court.

How Long Do You Have to be Separated?

In Maryland, the law requires that you and your spouse have been separated for at least one year before you can file for divorce. This means that you and your spouse must have lived in separate residences for at least one year. During this period, you cannot live in the same house, even if you are living in separate bedrooms. If you want to file for divorce before the one year separation period is up, you must prove that you and your spouse are living “separate and apart” and there is no chance of reconciliation.

Cost to File for Divorce

The cost to file for divorce in Maryland varies depending on the county. The cost to file a petition for divorce in Baltimore County is $90. In Montgomery County, the cost to file a petition for divorce is $135. Fees may also be charged for additional filing services, such as changing the name of a party or mailing copies of the divorce decree. Additionally, if you and your spouse cannot agree to the terms of the divorce, there may be additional costs associated with hiring an attorney to represent you in court.

Grounds for Immediate Divorce

In Maryland, you can file for an immediate divorce if your spouse has committed adultery, deserted you for at least one year, committed extreme cruelty, or voluntarily abandoned the marital home for at least 12 consecutive months. Additionally, if your spouse has been convicted of a felony and is sentenced to more than three years in prison, you can file for an immediate divorce.

Once you have filed for an immediate divorce, you will need to provide the court with evidence to support your claim. This evidence can include police reports, medical records, photographs, emails, or other documents. If the judge finds the evidence sufficient to grant an immediate divorce, the court will issue a decree of divorce. This decree is the same as any other divorce decree and outlines the terms of the divorce.

Getting a divorce in Maryland can be a difficult process, but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding the process and the requirements, you can make the process smoother and easier. If you have any questions, it is important to consult a qualified attorney who can help guide you through the process.