How to File for No-Fault Divorce in Maryland

In Maryland, you can file for a no-fault divorce if you and your spouse have been separated for at least one year. This type of divorce is also known as a 'uncontested divorce.' Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

1. Meet the residency requirement: One of you must have been a resident of Maryland for at least six months before filing for divorce.
2. File the divorce petition: You'll need to fill out a divorce petition form, which can be obtained from the Maryland Court of Appeals website or from your local circuit court.
3. Serve your spouse: You'll need to serve your spouse with a copy of the divorce petition. This can be done by a process server or by certified mail.
4. Wait for your spouse's response: Your spouse has 30 days to respond to the divorce petition. If they don't respond, you can move forward with the divorce.
5. Attend a settlement conference: In Maryland, you'll need to attend a settlement conference with a mediator to try to resolve any issues related to the divorce.
6. Attend a final hearing: If you're unable to resolve all issues, you'll need to attend a final hearing in front of a judge.
7. Get a divorce decree: Once the judge has made a decision, you'll receive a divorce decree, which is the official document that ends your marriage.

It's important to note that this is just a general overview of the process. You should consult with an attorney to ensure that you're following the correct procedures and to help you navigate any complex issues that may arise during the divorce process.