Filing for divorce is often difficult and emotional and is not a decision that is typically made lightly. Even if both parties are in agreement, there are still many tough decisions to be made throughout the process ahead. To ease the stress of this process and streamline its progress, our divorce lawyer Annapolis MD law firm can provide highly skilled counsel at every stage of the proceedings.
Jimeno & Gray helps you face this new chapter of your life. Our team guides you through the necessary steps forward to finalize your divorce. We represent you and protect your interests to ensure you receive fair treatment and that your voice is heard. There are several steps that must be executed in divorce proceedings, and we represent you through all of it and help you navigate it confidently.
Filing for Divorce in Annapolis, Maryland
In the state of Maryland, couples can file for separation and absolute divorce. Maryland does not recognize legal separation — only separation for the purposes of divorce. Spouses must be separated for 6 months before filing for divorce. They may live under the same roof but must lead their own lives independently from the other. Filing for divorce then begins the process of fully and legally dissolving the union between the couple.
According to the Maryland court system, couples may divorce for one of three reasons: One option is to demonstrate that both parties give their mutual consent to dissolve the marriage, show that they have come to an agreement on how their assets should be divided, and have a custody plan in place, if applicable. Another option includes showing that both spouses have been separated for 6 months and are no longer sharing lives. Finally, a couple can get divorced on the grounds of irreconcilable differences, where one or both parties feel that there is no resolution for the problems in the marriage.
It is essential to hire a divorce lawyer near me to ensure all steps are completed correctly and in alignment with all legal requirements. Lawyers have extensive knowledge and experience successfully guiding couples through divorce and brokering the best outcome possible. They may act as facilitators to help spouses reach agreements on all relevant issues. They can also negotiate compromises as well.
Mediation in a Divorce
Mediation can be a great alternative to traditional divorce proceedings and can give you more control over the dissolution of your marriage. It is often faster, less expensive, flexible, and private, as well. In mediation, both spouses sit down together with a mediator to work through dividing up assets and coming to an agreement on a number of issues. Mediation is a more informal process of processing a divorce. The mediator can also provide counsel on a number of problems that should be considered.
The divorce mediation process in Maryland allows you the chance to have more of a say in the outcome of your divorce than you would if you had it settled in court. This can be helpful when dividing up assets or making custody support decisions. Mediation can be ideal for couples who want to work together to come to an agreement that best suits them. Talk to a divorce lawyer to learn more and see if mediation could be a viable option for you and your spouse.
Common Reasons Couples Get Divorced
Couples choose to get divorced for many reasons. Whether they have drifted apart over time or have reached a breaking point, sometimes the marriage may not make sense for one or both parties any longer. At this point, they may decide that separation or divorce might be the healthiest option for themselves and reach out to a divorce attorney to begin the process. Some of the most common causes of divorce include:
- Minimal to no commitment
- Cheating
- Conflict and arguments
- Finances
- Unrealistic expectations
- Gender roles
- Marrying prematurely
- Domestic abuse and violence
- Differing religious viewpoints
- Inequality
- Lack of support from family members
Divorce Timeline in Annapolis, MD
When choosing to dissolve a marriage, it is not uncommon to wonder how long the divorce process takes in Maryland. The short answer is that it depends. There are several factors that can affect how fast a divorce can be settled. Division of assets, custody agreements, court schedules, and disputes between the individuals each have the potential to affect the divorce timeline.
In divorces where both individuals are in agreement and have swiftly come to a consensus, the process could take only 3-4 months to finalize. On the other hand, when the divorce process is contentious, and there is significant disagreement between the couple, the process can be drawn out. A divorce like this could easily take a year or more to be able to settle and finalize.
It is important to hire divorce attorneys near me who are skilled facilitators and negotiators and who can help streamline the process and de-escalate situations as needed. They may have recommendations and strategies for coming to an agreement while also protecting your share of the assets.
Divorce Lawyers Near Me Provide Guidance When Dividing Assets
Dividing assets is a big undertaking in a divorce, but it is also necessary. The purpose is to ensure each spouse receives a fair split of assets and sharing of debts. While property must be distributed equitably, there is not necessarily a 50/50 split of assets in Maryland divorces.
Property types and several factors can all influence what each spouse walks away from the marriage with. Asset division may not be split down the middle, per se, but it is intended to fairly distribute what the couple acquired during their marriage and still strike a balance in the end. Some factors that can impact how assets are divided up include:
- Duration of the marriage
- Age
- Health
- Financial circumstances
- Reason for divorce
- Custody accommodations
- Separate and marital property
While divorce proceedings strive to divide property up fairly and equitably, these factors may create a unique balance of assets between the parties. By taking each spouse’s needs and situation into consideration, the distribution can be conducted in a manner that still meets each person’s needs.
The Distinction between Separate and Marital Property and its Impact on Asset Division in Annapolis, MD
When dividing property during a divorce, the type of property it is considered makes a big difference in whether or not it can be divided between the individuals. Separate property pertains to items or gifts an individual had prior to the marriage. Conversely, marital property is any item that was acquired during the course of the marriage. Marital property is subject to asset division, while separate property remains in the possession of the spouse who owns it, and it is not considered when distributing assets.
It is vital to have the guidance of a divorce lawyer in Annapolis, MD throughout this process to help identify and clearly determine what types of property are involved, what will be split up, and how. At times, there may also be more complicated property to divide up, such as in the event of business ownership. Your attorney can provide clarity on these matters and help you navigate the many decisions that must be considered and made.
Navigating the Big Decisions in Divorce Proceedings
In addition to dividing up assets, there are a couple of other big decisions that need to be made when filing for divorce, such as custody issues and finances. While reaching a custody agreement may not be applicable for every couple, finances generally are. These are also areas that can create a great deal of tension between couples during a divorce. Below is a closer look at each consideration.
Custody
Custody decisions can quickly turn into a battle if spouses cannot come to an agreement on a number of factors. Each spouse must take into account their situation and what they can offer the children involved. A lawyer can help you consider a variety of factors that can help determine what is in the best interest of the children and how to come to an agreement on matters of custody, visitation, child support, and more. All of these elements are needed to create the required parenting plan in a divorce that involves children.
Finances
If you and your spouse had joint finances, then you both must come to a decision on how these accounts will be divided up and separated. The same applies to retirement and investment accounts as well. It is also important to plan ahead and consider what your financial situation will be once your monies are separated. Depending on how this might affect you, you can try to negotiate other assets in the divorce to help offset potential financial difficulties.
Preparing for the Divorce Process is Essential
Whether it occurs under amicable circumstances or not, divorce is a difficult process. It can be exhausting and emotionally draining, which is why it is beneficial to have a strong support system around you during a divorce. Self-care and outside help can give you the support you need to move ahead.
To make the divorce less stressful than it already is, planning ahead as much as possible can make the process more manageable and give you the endurance you need to get through it. Identifying and even writing down your goals for the outcome of your divorce can help keep you focused on the end goal.
Finding the right representation is crucial when facing divorce and should be carefully considered before moving ahead. The person you choose to represent you can make a big difference in how smoothly your divorce goes and what your life may look like after the divorce is finalized. Know what you are looking for when selecting divorce attorneys in Annapolis, MD, and ask questions to learn more about them and evaluate their:
- Experience
- Whether or not they have handled similar cases
- How much involvement the lawyer will have in your case
- Estimated timeline
- Situational approach
- Level of aggressiveness
- Fees and payment options
Hire a Compassionate and Experienced Divorce Attorney Near Me to Oversee Proceedings
An experienced lawyer can make a significant difference in your divorce proceedings. Not only do they advocate for you and help protect your assets, but they also provide valuable support so you are prepared and can make the best decisions possible. With their expansive knowledge of the law, your lawyer will ensure there are no legal violations while filing for divorce. They will also file all of your divorce paperwork and ensure it is filled out correctly and submitted in a timely manner.
Additionally, a lawyer is equipped to help diffuse and de-escalate conflict when it arises during a divorce. Emotions can run high in a divorce, and discussions can quickly get derailed. Not only does this extend the length of the divorce process, but it can also make the process more difficult and draining for each spouse. With the guidance of a lawyer, they can negotiate an understanding between both parties and keep everything on course.
Divorce lawyers in Annapolis, MD also know how difficult the process can be, especially if you and your spouse have children together. As your lawyer helps you make custody decisions, determine the type and value of your property, and separate your lives that have been so closely connected, they will protect your rights and ensure they are not ignored.
Your lawyer will also take the time to listen and understand your situation and goals so they can provide the most effective representation and support possible. They can also empower and prepare you for what to expect after the divorce.
Jimeno & Gray Equip You to Move Forward
When your marriage has not turned out as planned, Jimeno & Gray are here to compassionately guide you through the divorce process as painlessly as possible. We understand how hard a divorce can be, and our team works hard to help you and your partner reach an outcome you both are satisfied with. To take control of your future, contact us online to schedule your free consultation today with our divorce lawyer Annapolis MD law firm.