If you’re searching for an experienced family lawyer in Rockville, look no further than Jezic & Moyse. With specialized expertise and years of experience in family law and divorce, our attorneys are some of the best qualified to represent you in whatever situation or issue you may face.
Whether dealing with spousal support or managing the division of assets during a divorce proceeding – we have your back from start to finish. Over the years, we have successfully resolved countless cases while gracefully guiding clients through difficult times, ensuring they have the best outcomes for their divorce.
An Overview of Divorce Law in Rockville, MD
In Maryland, divorce law is complicated and can be challenging to navigate. That’s why it’s important to understand family laws and how it applies in your case. Hiring a family attorney or qualified divorce lawyer with experience in local divorce law can help ensure a successful outcome for your divorce proceedings.
The process for filing for divorce in Maryland begins with either party filing a complaint for divorce in the Circuit Court for their county. The complaint must provide details about the marriage, including the date of marriage, whether there are marital assets, children, and what the party is requesting of the Court. Once the complaint has been filed, it must be served to the other party, who will have 30 days to respond.
If the divorce is contested, a divorce attorney can help their client find common ground and reach an agreement through mediation. If the parties can come to an agreement, the divorce attorney can prepare any marital settlement agreements and file all appropriate motions. The parties will have to appear for a Merits Hearing before the divorce is finalized in the Judgement of Absolute Divorce.
However, if the parties are unable to reach an agreement, a divorce attorney can file appropriate motions with the court and prepare their client for all court appearances. Without an agreement, the parties will present their evidence to a judge at the Merits Hearing. At that hearing, the parties will have to present their evidence for the grounds of divorce, marital property, and the best interest of the minor children. In the end, the Judge will determine whether there are grounds for divorce, the equitable distribution of property, custody, and all other issues requested by the parties.
Possible Grounds for Divorce in Rockville, MD
Family lawyers in Maryland can help individuals seeking a divorce learn more about the grounds for which they can seek out a legal separation. The possible grounds for divorce involve the following:
- Mutual Consent – the parties must submit a written agreement that resolves all issues including property, alimony, custody, and child support.
- Irreconcilable Differences – a party must show that there is no hope of reconciliation, a party may use the prior fault-based reasons to prove irreconcilable differences such as adultery, cruelty/abuse, desertion, or by other means.
- Six Months Separation – a party must show that the parties have lived separate lives for six months prior to the filing of the Complaint for Divorce.
Understanding the Role of a Divorce Attorney
An attorney serves a multi-faceted role in Maryland divorce proceedings, leveraging their in-depth understanding of Maryland’s divorce laws and legal procedures to help clients navigate the intricacies of the legal system. Considering how complex divorce can be, having help from a skilled divorce attorney is highly recommended.
Your attorney will guide you through each phase of the process. They will:
- Assess the details of your case, including issues such as spousal support, division of assets, and child custody
- Provide strategic guidance on how to approach existing matters within the framework of Maryland’s divorce laws
- Offer sound legal guidance to help you understand your rights and obligations and make informed decisions
- Advocate for your interests through each step of the legal proceedings
- Represent you in negotiations with the opposing party and their legal counsel, striving to achieve favorable outcomes through mediation or, as necessary, aggressive litigation in court
A divorce can bring about many emotions and challenges, and the added complexity of the legal proceedings can be overwhelming. Your lawyer is there to simplify the process, ensuring you don’t have to traverse the intricate web of Maryland’s divorce laws alone. If you’re divorcing your spouse, our experienced Rockville, MD divorce attorneys can help.
Expert Divorce Attorneys in Rockville, MD
Divorce attorneys like Jezic & Moyse provide an incredible service to their clients, ensuring that their legal rights are not infringed upon during one of the most difficult times of their lives. If you or someone you know are considering divorce, it is essential to find a reliable lawyer to fully understand your situation and help protect your interests.
With our team of experienced family lawyers in Rockville, we are dedicated to assisting with even the most complex divorce cases. So don’t put off dealing with the hard decisions when it comes to family law — schedule a consultation with one of our professional divorce lawyers in Rockville today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get legally separated in Maryland?
Maryland doesn’t acknowledge legal separation. While separation can be grounds for divorce, it isn’t a legally recognized option outside divorce. The only way to legally separate from your spouse is through divorce.
Do I have to be legally separated to get a divorce in Maryland?
While some states require couples to be separated for a specified period, Maryland isn’t one of them. Instead, couples may pursue divorce for multiple reasons without needing to lead separate lives, although a 6-month separation period can be a reason for divorce.
Can I file for a divorce if I still live with my spouse?
Yes, it’s possible to file for divorce on the grounds of legal separation if you’re still living with your spouse. If you and your spouse are still living together but living entirely separate lives, you may pursue a divorce, citing six month separation as the reason for the divorce.
How long does it take to get divorced in Maryland?
Divorces in Maryland can take anywhere from a few months to over a year. The exact timeline depends on factors specific to your case. Generally, simpler cases without unresolved issues can be finalized in as little as six months. However, more complex cases with unresolved issues surrounding asset division, spousal support, or child custody can take considerably longer, potentially taking more than a year to finalize.