With nearly fifty percent of marriages in the United States ending in divorce, it is a common life transition—but that doesn’t mean it is an easy one. Divorce changes so many things, from your living arrangements, to your parental responsibilities, to your finances. It’s the end of a legal relationship, but it’s more than just a legal process: it’s an emotional, financial, and social one, too.

All of this change happening all at once can be overwhelming—even if you know that the divorce is the right thing. The right divorce attorney makes the process easier, not only for you, but for your children.

The Maryland Divorce Process

There are some things that need to happen in every divorce: figuring out what property needs to be divided and how to do so; determining whether one spouse will need financial support (alimony) from the other, and if so, the terms; and, of course, legally terminating the marriage. If there are children, establishing parental responsibility, parenting time arrangements, and child support are added to the list.

While there are common requirements, the divorce process can be very different from one couple to another. It stands to reason that if every family is unique, every divorce should be, too. As a life changes attorney, I will help you find the best way for you to make this challenging transition.

Divorce process options in Maryland include:

  • Mediation, in which you and your spouse meet with a neutral mediator to work out the terms of your divorce
  • Collaborative settlement, in which you and your spouse are supported by specially-trained collaborative attorneys and other professionals in reaching settlement
  • Negotiation, either directly with your spouse or through your divorce lawyers, to arrive at the terms of your divorce settlement
  • Litigation, which puts decision-making about the terms of the divorce in the hands of the court.

Each of these processes has its advantages and disadvantages. I have had experience with all of them, and can help you identify and pursue the divorce process that is best aligned with your goals.

Because the great majority of divorce cases settle, many divorce attorneys do not have a lot of litigation experience. While I do believe that reaching settlement is the best outcome in most cases, I am also a seasoned litigator and am more than comfortable trying your divorce case in court if that is what’s best for you.

Work with an Experienced Maryland Life Changes Attorney

I have been helping Maryland families navigate divorce and other family law matters for over 20 years. Much of my work with clients revolves around Maryland divorce and related issues, but I consider myself a life changes attorney, not just a divorce attorney. Divorce isn’t just an ending; it’s a transition to a new chapter in your life.

My goal is to make the transition itself as easy, understandable, and stress-free as possible, and to create a strong foundation for your future and that of your children.

To learn more about my experience and training or to learn more about the Maryland divorce process, check out my blog or contact me to schedule a consultation.