Despite your best efforts, you and your spouse have decided that it is the end of the road for your marriage. Divorce, unfortunately, is your next step. But how do you proceed? You’ve heard from friends that you must move out first. Others tell horror stories about how a seemingly amicable separation turned into an ugly divorce. You know that there are is mutual consent divorce maryland, but what does that actually mean? While an attorney can explain your options when you meet, you may want to do some research on the types of divorce before you go.
Mutual Consent Divorce
This is a new type of uncontested divorce for those living in the state of Maryland. It changes the previous requirement to live separately for a year prior to the divorce being legally granted. This is a good option for couples who currently still live together, don’t have minor children together and are both willing to appear at the hearing. You also must have both agreed in writing before the hearing to all property settlement and alimony.
Default divorce
Sadly, sometimes a divorce is the only option for one partner to move forward when they’ve been abandoned. Whether it is due to mental illness, infidelity or avoidance, there are those who find themselves alone when their spouse disappears. In this instance, a default divorce can be sought. It does not require the other spouse to be there or even respond to the petition since they cannot be found. This may also be known as a divorce in absentia.
Summary divorce
This is similar to the mutual consent divorce in Maryland but for states. Also known as a “simple divorce” it is designed for couples who are cooperatively seeking to end their marriage. Couples must have no significant assets, have not been married for long and have no children.