How long does it take to get a divorce in Maryland?
It typically takes between six months and one year to complete a divorce in Maryland, depending on whether you qualify based on a six-month separation, mutual consent, or irreconcilable differences. Uncontested divorces generally resolve faster, while cases involving child custody and support or division of marital property often take longer.
Speaking with an experienced Howard County divorce lawyer can help you navigate the divorce process and understand the timeline for your situation.
How Maryland divorce laws affect the timeline of your divorce
Maryland updated its divorce laws through SB36, which took effect on October 1, 2023. This law eliminated fault-based grounds for divorce and removed “limited divorce,” which had previously operated like a legal separation. Today, a couple may file for divorce based on three grounds:
- Irreconcilable differences
- Mutual consent
- Six-month separation
Under the law, the six-month separation period does not require spouses to live in different residences. A couple may still meet the separation requirement even if they reside under the same roof, as long as they lead separate lives and do not function as a married unit.
If a couple pursues mutual consent, they have to submit a marital settlement agreement that resolves all issues, including child custody, child support, alimony, division of marital property, and Family Use Personal Property. This approach often shortens the divorce process because there are fewer issues for the Court to decide.
Couples who choose the six-month separation ground may prepare their agreement and financial documents during the required period. Once the six months have passed, the parties may file their Complaint for Absolute Divorce, which allows the Court to begin reviewing the case.
Timeline for settling a divorce in Maryland
Divorce timelines vary depending on whether the case is contested or uncontested. If a spouse files the Complaint for Absolute Divorce, the following steps typically occur:
1. Response deadline
The spouse served with the Complaint has 30 days to file a Response if they live in Maryland. If the spouse fails to respond, the filing spouse may ask the Court for a default judgment, which allows the Judge to grant the divorce and approve the proposed settlement terms without the other spouse’s participation.
2. Court scheduling
Once the Court receives the Response (or enters a default), the Court schedules a hearing or trial date to address the Divorce Decree. In Howard County, the Court’s schedule varies, but hearings are often set several months after filings are complete.
3. Mediation and settlement efforts
While the case moves through the Court System, spouses can continue working on unresolved issues. Many couples participate in mediation, either voluntarily or by Court Order, to reach agreements on child custody, child support, property division, or Family Use Personal Property. Settling these matters during mediation often allows the divorce to finish much sooner than waiting for a trial.
4. Trial
If the spouses cannot reach an agreement, the case proceeds to trial. Contested divorces, especially those involving child custody and support, financial disputes, or business-related assets, may take longer due to required evidence, discovery, witness preparation, and Court availability.
How a lawyer can help you with a divorce in Maryland
Guidance from an experienced Family Law Attorney can make the divorce process easier to manage. At Coover Law Firm, LLC, Mr. Coover helps clients with each step, including filing for divorce and working toward agreements that meet their family’s needs.
Mediation and settlement discussions often move faster when both spouses understand their rights and responsibilities. Mr. Coover helps clients work toward practical resolutions, avoid delays caused by incomplete paperwork, and prepare for Court when needed.
If your divorce requires a hearing or trial, Coover Law Firm, LLC presents your case clearly and ensures the Court has the information it needs to issue a thorough decision. To discuss your Family Law matter, reach out online today or call us at (410) 553-5042.