Divorce
Compassionate Family Law Divorce Attorney in Greater Montgomery County
Divorce law governs how a marriage is formed and terminated. In Maryland, the court recognizes no-fault divorce, meaning the person who files does not have to prove any wrongdoing by their spouse. Whether a divorce is amicable (uncontested) or contentious and acrimonious (contested), it’s important to hire an experienced attorney. The legal process can be lengthy and can take a huge financial and emotional toll, especially if you have children. If you and your spouse share complex assets like multiple real estate properties, a business, or high-value accounts, it’s even more important to secure representation. Cohen & Hertz, P.C. is an experienced divorce law firm in Maryland. Our attorneys offer personalized, experienced legal guidance for Maryland families, providing one-on-one attention and strategic protection of assets, children, and legal rights. Call to schedule a consultation with one of our family law divorce attorneys in Greater Montgomery County.
Divorce Issues We Help Resolve
We have decades of experience and a deep understanding of Maryland divorce law. We have a long track record of providing compassionate guidance and tireless legal representation in and out of court on family law matters. Some of the most common divorce issues we help clients resolve are:
- Child custody, support, and visitation
- Asset valuation and division
- Equitable distribution of property and businesses
- Division of rental property
- Marital home buyouts
- Maryland’s Assumption of Law benefit
- Prenuptial agreements
- Spousal support or alimony
- Hidden assets
- Property owned before marriage
- Alternative dispute resolution or mediation
Understanding the Divorce Process in Maryland
In your initial consultation with our divorce attorneys, we will take the time needed to make sure you understand your rights, get answers to your questions, and know what to expect from the divorce process in Maryland. The process is governed by laws that enforce strict statutory frameworks and timelines to mitigate stress and delays. While each case is different, the general process includes:
- Determining residency rules and divorce grounds
- Meeting the required six-month timeline or separation requirements
- Preparing and filing the complaint
- Serving the other party with the legal paperwork
- Waiting for a formal answer or response to the complaint
- Undergoing the discovery process
- Attending court-ordered mediation and settlement conferences
- Proceeding to a formal trial before a judge
- Issuance of the final divorce decree
Why Choose Cohen & Hertz, P.C.
Cohen & Hertz, P.C. offers one-on-one advocacy, representation, and guidance as you navigate Maryland’s complex divorce laws. Our attorneys have extensive experience and provide personalized client services. We will never pass your case off to someone else, and we make sure we provide consistent, transparent communication and continuity. We offer bi-jurisdictional representation in Maryland Circuit Courts and the District of Columbia Superior Court, and operate as a comprehensive partner. Our goals are to protect your assets, lifestyle, children, and rights by providing boutique-level representation. We offer tailored solutions for any divorce or family law matter, from uncontested proceedings to complex, high-net-worth divorce cases.
Speak With a Bethesda Divorce & Child Custody Lawyer
Before filing a petition for dissolution of marriage or requesting a divorce in Maryland or Washington, DC, it’s in your best interests to speak with an experienced attorney. We can provide full-service representation, from aggressive courtroom litigation to alternative dispute resolution and certified family law and divorce mediation. Call us now or fill out our online contact form to schedule an initial divorce lawyer free consultation.
Answers to FAQs About Divorce, Child Custody, & Splitting Assets
A no-fault divorce means that neither spouse will have to prove marital misconduct in order to petition for a divorce. The parties just need to state under oath that the marriage is irretrievably broken or that you have lived separately through the state’s required waiting period.
Maryland requires spouses to live separate and apart, without interruption, for at least 6 months before filing a complaint. You do not have to maintain two separate residences, however. You and your spouse can live in the same house if you pursue entirely separate lives, including separate bank accounts and bedrooms. If you and your spouse can agree on how to split your assets and custody of your children, you can sign a mutual consent agreement to waive this waiting period. However, if you are fighting and do not get along, it may be easier to live apart. Neither spouse can force the other out of the home without a court order, however, and the court does not automatically grant custody to one parent during this time. You will both retain equal parental rights during the separation. You should establish a clear, written temporary parenting schedule to avoid conflicts.
Yes. Even if your spouse doesn’t want a divorce, they cannot force you to stay married. If your spouse is avoiding service or refuses service, your attorney can pursue alternative means of service. If they won’t sign the paperwork, your attorney will proceed with filing for a contested divorce.
Maryland does not issue decrees of legal separation. Instead, your attorney can create a private contract known as a separation agreement that outlines how the household will operate while you live separately.