Divorces are never easy. The emotional, financial, and sometimes physical toll can oftentimes become overwhelming. But one of the most difficult aspects of divorce is not knowing what to expect. While every divorce is different, there are a few processes that plenty of divorces go through.
Filing a Complaint for Absolute Divorce
The first step to permanently ending a marriage in Maryland is filing a Complaint for Absolute divorce in the circuit court of the county where you or your spouse live. This complaint will cover such things such as
- Residency
- Children
- Parenting plan
- Child Support
- Alimony
- Marital Property
- Grounds for absolute divorce
- Property
Serving Documents
Once you have filed a Complaint for Absolute Divorce and received a case number and a summons, your spouse must be served. The service package must include the original copy of the summons and one copy of all the forms you filed with the court. The Maryland Rules govern service of the Complaint.
Hearing
Every divorce, regardless if it’s uncontested or contested, will have a hearing. During this hearing, you and your spouse will present documents and evidence supporting your request for divorce. The judge will consider evidence and testimony on one or more aspects of your divorce, including things like child support, alimony, and property division.
Judgment of Divorce
After your hearing, the court will prepare a Judgment of Divorce. Depending on what county you file for divorce, you may have to prepare this form yourself. You will also have to file a “blue form”. A blue form is an official form that amends your records with the State of Maryland and officially notifies the state that you are divorced.
A Divorce Lawyer Can Help the Process
Divorces rarely are simple. Every divorce case has its unique aspects that will affect the divorce process. When you work with an experienced Maryland divorce lawyer, like Alan Billian, it can make the process simpler and easier. Alan Billian has over 30 years of experience in divorces and Maryland and will explain what you can expect in your unique divorce case.
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