Divorce
The Divorce Attorneys You Want on Your Side
Ending your marriage might be the right decision, but that doesn’t mean that the process of ending your marriage is an easy one. At Z Family Law, our family lawyers know the stressors and challenges divorce brings, from disagreements in dividing marital assets to negotiating the custody of your children to redefining your sense of self. At Z Family Law, we believe that a divorce case isn’t the end of your story—it’s the beginning of a new chapter. Our mission is to help you write it.
Guided by the knowledge that every divorce case is unique, our accomplished team of divorce attorneys is here to create a tailored strategy for you rooted in high-quality representation. Through a professional attorney-client relationship, we’ll help you navigate any roadblocks in your path to create the happily ever after you are looking for in the midst of the dissolution of your marriage.
Changes to Maryland Divorce Law
With the recent passage of SB 0036, Maryland has joined 39 other US states in adopting a “no fault” divorce policy. Previously, the law required couples filing for divorce to do so on the basis of a 12-month separation; mutual consent (where couples must agree in writing on all divorce-related matters); or another specific divorce “ground”. In the past, most of these grounds were fault-based, meaning that they placed blame for the breakdown of the marriage solely on one party — typically for reasons such as adultery, abuse, desertion, or insanity. Under the new law, however, couples no longer need to cite fault-based grounds in order to get divorced. Instead, they can name irreconcilable differences or file on the basis of a 6-month separation, or mutual consent.
With these changes, it’s become quicker and easier to get divorced in Maryland than ever before. How? By simplifying the process and removing barriers that sometimes keep individuals trapped in unhappy, toxic, or even abusive circumstances. The removal of certain fault-based grounds may also help minimize conflict between separating spouses and reduce the social stigma around divorce, by recognizing that the breakdown of a marriage is not always the burden of one party alone. In addition, the new process allows couples and families to protect their privacy and keep their personal business out of court.
Despite these revisions, fault-based factors will still play a role in Maryland divorces. Things like adultery, abuse, and insanity continue to have the power to impact critical matters — from the division of assets to custody arrangements, alimony, and child support.
Click here for more information on SB 0036 and what it could mean for you.
What Qualifies as a Separation Today?
Under the updated Maryland law enacted in 2023, couples can be considered separated even if they continue to live in the same physical household — so long as they are “pursuing separate lives.” This evolution in policy significantly reduces the financial and emotional burden for many couples as they map out the details of their impending transition — from finding a new home to navigating life as co-parents.
When filing for divorce, you must cite one of the following grounds:
01
Irreconcilable Differences: Couples file under these grounds when they feel they cannot resolve their differences enough to reunite or coexist within the marriage.
02
Six-Month Separation: While couples previously had to cite a full 12-month separation as grounds for divorce, Maryland law now allows you to file on the basis of a 6-month separation instead.
03
Mutual Consent: Under grounds for mutual consent, couples must agree — in writing — on all divorce-related matters.
Finding the Right Divorce Attorney for You
As you navigate this challenging time, a Maryland divorce lawyer with years of experience in divorce negotiations and divorce cases is essential to help you make rational, well-guided decisions. After all, when it comes to writing your new happily ever after, the importance of finding strategic and compassionate legal counsel from a divorce law firm focused solely on family law cannot be understated. By combining our vast legal experience, our tenured team of divorce attorneys can design a tailored strategy to help you take back your power, secure your financial future, and protect your children’s best interests. Visit one of our offices today for an initial case assessment to learn more about your legal rights when it comes to getting a divorce as a Maryland resident.