Divorce in Maryland
State-specific overview · Family Law
Maryland requires either mutual consent or a 12-month separation before a no-fault divorce is final.
How Maryland treats Divorce
Maryland permits no-fault divorce either by mutual written consent (with no waiting period) or after 12 months of separation if one spouse initiates the action. The state also recognizes fault grounds including adultery, cruelty, and desertion, which can shorten the timeline. Maryland courts divide marital property equitably and award alimony based on factors such as the length of marriage, each spouse's financial situation, and ability to support themselves.
The general definition of Divorce
The legal dissolution of a marriage, ending the spouses' rights and responsibilities to each other.
Divorce is the legal process by which a married couple ends their marriage. It involves a court officially terminating the marriage and typically requires decisions about property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support. The process can be contested, where the spouses disagree on terms, or uncontested, where they agree on the major issues. Once a divorce is finalized, both parties are free to remarry and are no longer legally responsible for each other.
Read the full Divorce entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.