How to Prepare for Divorce in Maryland
Preparing for divorce in Maryland can feel overwhelming, especially with the state's specific timelines and property laws. The more organized you are before filing, the more control you retain over the process from every angle, including financially, legally, and emotionally.
Understanding Divorce Laws in Maryland
Fault Type
Both fault and no-fault
Waiting Period
6 months separation (mutual) or 12 months
Property Division
Equitable distribution
Residency Requirement
Varies by grounds
- Maryland allows both fault and no-fault divorce.
- Recent law changes reduced waiting periods significantly.
- Mutual consent divorce has no waiting period if no children.
How to Prepare for Divorce in Maryland
⚖️ Legal Preparation
- Collect marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, and prior court orders
- Understand residency requirements (Varies by grounds)
- Decide whether an attorney or mediator best fits your situation
- Research Maryland's both fault and no-fault divorce options
💰 Financial Preparation
- List all assets, debts, and income sources
- Gather tax returns (last 3–5 years)
- Open accounts in your own name
- Document all shared accounts and credit cards
Maryland divides marital property equitably. Courts consider monetary and non-monetary contributions.
👨👩👧👦 If You Have Children
- Learn Maryland custody standards
- Document children's schools, healthcare, and activities
- Consider ideal custody schedules
- Gather records of parenting involvement
Maryland courts focus on the child's best interest and consider factors like fitness of each parent.
🔐 Personal & Digital Preparation
- Secure passwords and financial access
- Preserve important communications
- Build emotional and logistical support
- Create copies of important documents
Maryland Divorce Resources
Stay Organized with Divorce Diary
Divorce Diary helps you track documents, deadlines, and decisions so nothing gets missed during Maryland's divorce timeline. Walk into your first attorney meeting prepared and saving $1,000+ in intake fees.
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