When you file for an absolute divorce, it means that there is no reasonable hope that you and your spouse can still work it out as a couple. By deciding to end your marriage, you are taking the first big step into embracing the unknown and welcoming a new beginning for yourself.
To help explore this topic further, here are the three legal grounds for absolute divorce in Maryland:
Six-month separation
When you file for divorce using this reason, it means that you and your spouse have lived separately and without intimacy (or a sexual relationship) for at least six consecutive months.
It also means that you have been using your respective finances “separately” and have had no social life together as a couple during your separation period.
Irreconcilable differences
When you file for divorce using this reason, it means that your issues or problems within the marriage are irreparable. There is no minimum separation period required for filing irreconcilable differences.
Mutual consent
When you file for a mutual consent divorce, it means that you and your spouse have chosen to end your marriage amicably and settle your divorce matters on your own terms through a marital settlement agreement.
This written agreement must include resolutions for:
- Property division
- Debt allocation
- Alimony
- Child custody
- Parenting time
- Child support
Since you have already agreed on all key issues of your marriage, you and your spouse can speed up your divorce and file your legal document with the court.
Your life’s new chapter awaits
By learning about Maryland’s common grounds for absolute divorce, you can become more familiar with the process and pursue the most suitable option for your situation. With this first step out of the way, you can prepare for your divorce with confidence over the timeline and its legal procedures.
