What Types of Divorce Exist in Maryland?

Deciding on divorce is something that does not happen overnight. Typically, many factors all lead to the same conclusion: the marriage is over. A repair is not possible.

Living in Maryland, you may want to know what options you have for ending your marriage. The rules set forth by the state legislature define the different ways a divorce can go, but there exist two main routes to sever a marital bond: absolute and limited.

What Is an Absolute Divorce?

When you know the marriage is over, you feel no need to continue in the relationship. You want property, assets, debt and child custody divided so you can continue in your life. When looking to legally end a marriage for good, you want to petition for an absolute divorce. When the court enters a final order, your legal binds will no longer exist, and you can remarry.

What Is a Limited Divorce?

If you do not necessarily want to completely sever your ties to your spouse, but you do want to get some issues legally straight while you spend some time apart, a limited divorce proceeding may do the trick. This is a legal separation where parties agree on the division of money and how other things may work, such as child visitation and custody. However, both parties remain legally bound under the law. A person who goes this route cannot remarry.

Which Way Is Best?

When it comes to deciding which of the two types of divorce routes to go, you need to consider what your final goal is. Is there a chance you and your spouse will start seeing eye-to-eye and want to return to living together? Do you want to go back to using your maiden name and begin a new single life? Each circumstance is different and warrants a personal choice.

Check with an attorney to help you decide what option works best for your given situation. Whatever route you go, it is important you know what to expect throughout the process.