Contested Divorce in Maryland: Fiercely Advocating for Your Rights Through Life’s Most Challenging Legal Battles
Divorce is never easy—it is an emotional crossroads where the past, present, and future collide. When two people who once shared a life can no longer agree on fundamental issues, the process becomes even more daunting, fraught with legal complexities, financial uncertainty, and personal turmoil. In Maryland, contested divorces arise when spouses cannot reach an agreement on critical matters such as property division, child custody, spousal support, and financial disputes. Unlike amicable, uncontested divorces, these cases often require extensive negotiation, court intervention, and aggressive legal representation to protect your interests.
At Edwards Family Law Group, we understand the profound personal stakes involved in contested divorces. You are not just fighting for assets—you are fighting for your future, your stability, and in many cases, your children’s well-being. Our dedicated Maryland divorce attorneys stand as your unwavering advocates, offering compassionate counsel while fiercely protecting your rights. Whether you are facing a heated child custody battle, a high-net-worth asset dispute, or a disagreement over alimony, we are here to guide you with strategy, strength, and legal excellence.
What Is a Contested Divorce in Maryland?
A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on one or more crucial issues related to their separation. These disputes can span various areas, including:
- Division of Marital Assets and Debts – Determining who gets what, from real estate and retirement accounts to valuable assets and outstanding liabilities.
- Child Custody and Parenting Time – Crafting custody arrangements that prioritize the child’s best interests while safeguarding parental rights.
- Child Support – Ensuring that financial responsibilities are fairly distributed in compliance with Maryland law.
- Alimony (Spousal Support) – Addressing whether one spouse is entitled to financial support, and if so, for how long.
- Business Ownership and High-Value Assets – Navigating disputes over family businesses, stock portfolios, and investment properties.
- Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements – Enforcing or challenging agreements that could impact the divorce settlement.
Contested divorces demand careful legal navigation, meticulous preparation, and a thorough understanding of Maryland’s divorce laws. With court intervention often required, having a seasoned attorney in your corner is essential for ensuring that your rights and assets are protected throughout the proceedings.
The Contested Divorce Process in Maryland: What to Expect
Understanding the steps involved in a contested divorce can help alleviate some of the uncertainty. Here’s what you can expect:
- Filing the Divorce Petition
The process begins when one spouse (the petitioner) formally files a Complaint for Absolute Divorce with the Maryland circuit court. This document outlines the legal grounds for the divorce and details requests related to custody, property division, and financial support. - Serving the Divorce Papers
Once the petition is filed, the other spouse (the respondent) must be served with the legal documents. The respondent then has a set period to respond, either contesting or agreeing to the terms presented. - Discovery Phase: Gathering Critical Evidence
Discovery is a vital stage where both parties exchange financial records, property documents, and other relevant evidence. This process may include:- Interrogatories – Written questions each party must answer under oath.
- Depositions – Sworn testimony from both parties and witnesses.
- Subpoenas – Court orders requiring third parties to provide key documents or testimony.
- Mediation and Settlement Negotiations
Maryland courts often require mediation to encourage spouses to reach an agreement outside of trial. If successful, a settlement is drafted, and the divorce can proceed without further litigation. - Court Hearings and Trial (If Necessary)
If mediation fails, the case moves to trial, where each spouse presents evidence and testimony before a judge. The judge then determines the final resolution on all contested issues, which becomes legally binding. - Final Divorce Decree
Once a judge reaches a decision, a Final Divorce Decree is issued, officially dissolving the marriage and outlining legal obligations moving forward.
Grounds for Contested Divorce in Maryland
Maryland law recognizes both no-fault and fault-based grounds for divorce:
- No-Fault Divorce
- 6-Month Separation – Spouses must live separately for at least six months without reconciliation.
- Mutual Consent Divorce – Available to couples who agree on all divorce-related terms and sign a settlement agreement.
- Fault-Based Divorce
- Adultery – Requires proof of infidelity.
- Cruelty or Domestic Violence – Physical or emotional abuse that endangers a spouse or child.
- Desertion – One spouse abandoning the other for at least 12 consecutive months.
- Criminal Conviction – If a spouse is sentenced to three or more years in prison.
- Insanity – Institutionalization for a severe mental disorder for at least three years.
Fault-based divorces can significantly impact alimony, custody, and property division, making legal representation crucial.
How Our Maryland Contested Divorce Attorneys Can Protect You
When facing a contested divorce, you need a legal team with the experience, skill, and tenacity to advocate for your best interests. Our attorneys provide:
- Strategic Negotiation – Working to secure favorable settlements without the need for prolonged litigation.
- Aggressive Litigation – Building a powerful case to fight for your rights in court when necessary.
- Financial Protection – Ensuring a fair distribution of assets, property, and financial accounts.
- Child Custody Advocacy – Prioritizing your children’s well-being while safeguarding your parental rights.
- Spousal Support Representation – Advocating for fair alimony agreements based on financial need and contributions to the marriage.
Why Choose Our Maryland Contested Divorce Attorneys?
A contested divorce is a pivotal moment in your life, and having the right legal team can make all the difference. Clients trust us because we offer:
- Decades of Family Law Experience – Proven expertise in Maryland family law cases, from high-conflict divorces to custody and child support battles to complex asset divisions.
- Unyielding Courtroom Representation – Skilled trial lawyers who are unafraid to stand up for you in court.
- Tailored Legal Strategies – Every case is unique, and we develop customized solutions to meet your specific needs.
- A Track Record of Success – A history of winning favorable outcomes for our clients in Maryland family courts.
- Comprehensive Legal Support – From financial analysis to custody evaluations, we handle every aspect of your case.
Take the Next Step: Contact Our Maryland Contested Divorce Attorneys Today
A contested divorce is one of the most challenging legal battles you may ever face, but you do not have to face it alone. Our dedicated legal team is here to fight for you, ensuring that your rights, assets, and future are fiercely protected. We understand the emotional and financial toll of family law litigation, and we are committed to guiding you through the process with strength and clarity.
📞 Call us today for a confidential consultation. Let us help you take control of your future and move forward with confidence.
