Many people going through a divorce in Maryland are aware of the new law that took effect this past year that allows people to obtain a divorce on the grounds of mutual consent. The advantage of the new law is that people are not required to be separated for at least one year prior to filing for an absolute divorce so long as certain requirements are met. Often we are asked, though, how to prepare for the divorce hearing when moving forward on a mutual consent divorce.
Because the law regarding mutual consent requires that (1) the parties do not have any minor children in common, (2) the parties have executed a marital settlement agreement that resolves all issues related to alimony and property, and that (3) both parties appear for the hearing, there is not much left to do at the actual hearing. The parties will simply need to satisfy the residency requirement and other minor hurdles, as well as state under oath that neither has filed a pleading to set aside the marital settlement agreement. The hearing will only take approximately 10-15 minutes from start to finish.
While the actual hearing may be fairly stress-free, it is important that parties satisfy all legal requirements to have their divorce finalized. Consult a knowledgeable family law attorney to make sure your interests are sufficiently represented. If you need representation for your family law case in Maryland, please contact our family law attorneys or call 301-563-6685 to set up an initial consultation.
Divorce, Custody & Family Law in Maryland
With offices in Silver Spring and Rockville, MD, Andalman & Flynn offers legal representation to divorce clients in Montgomery County as well as in Prince George’s and Howard counties. We know how complex and sensitive matters involving divorce can be, and we want to make sure your best interests are well taken care of as you begin a new way of life.
We can assist you in resolving your divorce and resulting legal matters in court or through alternative means of resolution. Contact us today.
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