Westminster Divorce Lawyer

Choosing to end your marriage is a difficult decision, even if you believe it is for the best. Going through the process will be emotionally challenging, and there are significant legal and financial considerations. If you are thinking about getting a divorce or have recently been served papers, a Westminster divorce lawyer could help you navigate each step with confidence.

Maryland has tried to make the process more straightforward, so couples can seek a divorce based on mutual consent or irreconcilable differences. This removes the need to prove fault and eliminates the old, limited divorce option. Our experienced family attorneys could explain the differences and how they apply to your situation.

What Does the Divorce Process Look Like?

Under Maryland Code, Family Law § 7-103, the court may decree a divorce based on one of three grounds: being separated for six months, irreconcilable differences, or by mutual consent of both spouses. Regardless of the reason, the couple must make several major decisions, such as:

• Division of marital property
• Spousal support obligations
• Child custody and parent access
• Child support arrangements

Each of these needs to be addressed either through a written agreement or by a court order. An attorney could guide individuals through the paperwork and the Westminster family court procedures so that things proceed smoothly and with minimal delays.

Splitting Properties and Other Financial Considerations

Maryland follows an equitable distribution principle when dividing marital assets, which means that it is done fairly and not necessarily equally. The judge examines several factors when making this determination, including each spouse’s contributions to the family, the duration of the marriage, and their overall financial circumstances. The judge may also consider events that contributed to the breakdown of the marriage and how the assets were acquired. Sometimes this is easy, but it can be a challenge for certain properties, like real estate and investment portfolios.

Spousal support may be awarded to help one spouse maintain the standard of living that they enjoyed during the marriage, but this is not automatic and requires separate consideration. A knowledgeable divorce attorney could ensure all assets and income sources are collected and provided to the Westminster judge to help them make their ruling.

Child Custody, Support, and Access

Going through a divorce is difficult, especially if children are involved. Deciding on custody arrangements and access for the other parent is often the most sensitive stage of the process. State courts determine custody based on the best interest of the child and each parent’s ability to provide a caring, stable, and supportive household.

Child support is determined by a statutory formula, found in Md. Code, Fam. Law § 12-204, based on both parents’ combined income. However, the judge may deviate from this in unique circumstances, such as shared physical custody or extraordinary medical expenses.

Resolving these issues can be highly emotional, and it is common for the situation to become contentious. That is why parents in Westminster could benefit from the advice of a skilled divorce attorney. Our legal team knows that every case requires a personalized approach and could help parents develop a plan that preserves the relationship with their children while also defining financial responsibilities.

Discuss Your Divorce With a Westminster Attorney

If you are considering an end to your marriage or need help responding to a petition from your spouse, it is best to seek professional guidance. A Westminster divorce lawyer is ready to assist you with every step of the process.

Divorce is never easy for anyone, but with experienced representation, you could make informed decisions and move on with your life. Contact our firm to talk with a member of our team about your situation.