Your Guide to Legal Separation Assistance in MD

Worried about losing your health insurance if you separate? It’s a major financial concern and a key reason many couples look into separation before divorce. In Maryland, a “limited divorce” can be a solution. This legal step might allow you to stay on your spouse’s health plan—a benefit that disappears with a final divorce. It provides a way to live apart while setting clear rules for your finances. But it’s a formal process. Getting experienced legal separation assistance in Bel Air MD is crucial to protect your financial future and understand all your options.

Key Takeaways

• Maryland uses a “limited divorce,” not legal separation: Our state doesn’t have a formal status called legal separation; instead, a court can grant a limited divorce. This allows you to live apart and get enforceable orders for child custody and financial support while remaining legally married.
• A separation agreement is your most important tool: This written contract acts as a roadmap for living apart. It outlines how you’ll handle finances, property, and parenting, which helps prevent conflict and can make a future divorce process much smoother.
• Separation is a practical but temporary step: A limited divorce can be a strategic choice that preserves benefits like health insurance, but it does not end your marriage. If you decide to divorce later, you must go through a separate legal process to finalize the split.

What Does Legal Separation Mean in Maryland?

If you’re looking for information on legal separation in Maryland, you might be surprised to learn that our state doesn’t officially recognize it. Instead, Maryland offers something called a “limited divorce.” When you hear someone say they are legally separated, they most likely have a limited divorce, which is a court order that allows a married couple to live apart while settling important matters.

A limited divorce is not a final end to the marriage. Think of it as a legally recognized pause. It allows you and your spouse to resolve issues like who lives in the family home, how finances will be handled, and what the arrangements will be for your children. This process provides structure and legal protection while you are physically separated. It can be a temporary measure, giving you both time and space to decide whether to reconcile or move toward a final, absolute divorce. For many couples, it’s a practical first step toward figuring out the future without making an irreversible decision.

Legal Separation vs. Divorce: What’s the Difference?

The main difference between a limited divorce and an absolute divorce is finality. A limited divorce does not end your marriage; you are still legally married to your spouse. An absolute divorce permanently dissolves the marriage. During a limited divorce, a court can issue orders for financial support and child custody, but it cannot divide marital property. One of the key reasons some couples choose this path is to maintain certain benefits, such as allowing one spouse to remain on the other’s health insurance plan, which is not an option after an absolute divorce.

Impact on Tax Filing Status

Since a limited divorce means you are still legally married, your tax obligations are a key consideration. The good news is that you retain flexibility. According to MetLife, “Separated couples can still file taxes as married (jointly or separately).” This is a significant difference from an absolute divorce, after which you must file as single. Choosing to file jointly can sometimes offer tax advantages, but it also means you are both responsible for the information on the return. Filing as married but separately is another option. It’s wise to consult with both a financial advisor and your attorney to decide which approach best suits your specific financial situation during the separation period.

“Next of Kin” Status and Medical Decisions

An often-overlooked aspect of separation is that you may still be considered your spouse’s “next of kin.” This means that in a medical emergency, you could be the person legally authorized to make critical healthcare decisions for them. While this might be what you both want, it can also create complicated or unwanted situations. Divorce typically severs these ties, but during a limited divorce, they often remain intact unless specified otherwise. This is why it’s crucial to have clear legal documents, like an advance directive or healthcare power of attorney, that reflect your current wishes. It’s a detail that overlaps with estate planning and is too important to leave to chance.

How It Differs from an Annulment

It’s easy to get legal terms mixed up, but a limited divorce and an annulment are fundamentally different. A limited divorce is granted for a valid, legal marriage. It’s a tool for couples who need to live apart and sort out their affairs under the court’s supervision. An annulment, on the other hand, essentially declares that the marriage was never valid in the first place. As one legal group explains, an annulment applies when there was a legal barrier to the marriage from the start, such as fraud or one party already being married. In Maryland, a limited divorce acknowledges your marriage’s validity while giving you a path to live separately.

What if One Spouse Objects to Separation?

You can’t force a separation if your spouse is determined to end the marriage. If you file for a limited divorce but your spouse objects and wants an absolute divorce instead, the court will likely proceed with the divorce case. A judge generally won’t grant a limited divorce if one party has grounds for and desires a final divorce. This scenario underscores the importance of clear communication, if possible, and strong legal representation. Understanding the potential outcomes and having a family law attorney to guide you is essential when you and your spouse are not on the same page about the future of your marriage.

Don’t Believe These Legal Separation Myths

One of the biggest misconceptions is that a limited divorce is just a simpler version of a final divorce. While it can be a stepping stone, it involves its own legal process. Another common myth is that it’s always cheaper and less stressful. If you and your spouse disagree on key issues like finances or parenting time, a limited divorce can become just as contentious and costly as a final divorce. It’s not a casual agreement; it’s a formal legal action that requires careful consideration and often the guidance of an experienced family law attorney to protect your interests.

What Does Maryland Law Require for a Separation?

When you and your spouse decide to separate, it can feel like you’re stepping into a new world with its own set of rules. In Maryland, the law has specific requirements for couples who are separating, especially if you plan to file for divorce later. Understanding these rules from the start can make the process much clearer and less stressful. It’s about knowing what the state expects so you can prepare properly and protect your interests. Let’s walk through the key legal requirements you’ll need to meet, from where you live to how you live apart.

Do You Meet the Residency Rules in Bel Air?

Before you can take any formal legal steps, you need to meet Maryland’s residency requirements. The rule is straightforward: at least one of you must be a resident of Maryland to file for a limited divorce, which is the state’s version of legal separation. Additionally, the grounds, or the legal reason for your separation, must have taken place within the state. This is the first checkpoint in the legal process, and it ensures that Maryland courts have the authority to handle your case. If you’ve recently moved or are unsure if you qualify, it’s a good idea to confirm your residency status before moving forward.

What Counts as “Living Apart” in Maryland?

Maryland law is very specific about what it means to be “separated.” To use separation as grounds for a divorce, you and your spouse must live completely separate lives for at least six consecutive months. This means more than just sleeping in different bedrooms under the same roof. You must live in separate homes and not engage in marital relations. The clock on this six-month period starts the day you begin living apart, and it must be uninterrupted. This waiting period is designed to show the court that the marriage is truly over, so it’s a critical step you can’t skip.

Why You Might Need a Separation Agreement

While Maryland doesn’t legally require you to have a separation agreement, it’s one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself. Think of it as a roadmap for your separation. This written contract outlines how you’ll handle important issues like dividing property, managing finances, and co-parenting. Creating a separation agreement with the help of a family law attorney can prevent misunderstandings and conflict down the road. It provides clarity and structure during an emotional time and can make the transition to a potential divorce much smoother and more predictable for everyone involved.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Legal Separation?

Deciding to separate is a major life event, and it’s important to understand what you’re walking into. Legal separation can be a useful tool for some couples, but it isn’t the right path for everyone. It comes with a unique set of benefits and challenges that look different from a divorce. For some, it’s a practical way to live apart while preserving certain marital benefits. For others, it can feel like a complicated middle ground that prolongs uncertainty. Thinking through the advantages and disadvantages can help you clarify your goals and decide if this is the best step for your family.

The Financial and Legal Advantages of Separating

One of the most common reasons couples choose legal separation is to maintain health insurance coverage. In many cases, a legal separation allows one spouse to remain on the other’s employer-sponsored health plan, which isn’t possible after a divorce is finalized. This can be a significant financial relief. You may also be able to keep other benefits, like certain Social Security benefits or tax advantages. A separation agreement provides many of the same legal protections as a divorce, creating clear rules for finances and parenting without officially ending the marriage. It’s a structured approach to living apart that can be a core part of your family law strategy.

Understanding the Potential Drawbacks

While legal separation can seem like a simpler option, it can become just as complex and costly as a divorce if you and your spouse can’t agree on the terms. If you have to litigate issues like property division or spousal support, you’ll face similar legal fees. It’s also important to remember that a legal separation doesn’t automatically turn into a divorce. If you eventually decide to end the marriage for good, you will have to go through a separate legal process. This makes it crucial to consider your long-term goals. If a divorce is what you ultimately want, a separation might just be an extra step.

Coping with the Emotional Side of Separation

Separation can provide much-needed space, but it can also leave you in a state of limbo. Without the finality of a divorce, some people find it difficult to move on and start a new chapter. This uncertainty can prolong the emotional stress of a troubled relationship for everyone involved. While divorce involves a clear grieving process, separation can sometimes feel like an open-ended pause, making it harder to find closure. The emotional well-being of your family is paramount, especially when you need to establish new routines around child custody and co-parenting.

How to Start the Legal Separation Process in Bel Air

Taking the first step toward separating from your spouse can feel like a huge challenge. The path forward might seem unclear, but understanding the process can bring a sense of control. In Maryland, starting a separation involves a few key actions. It begins with the practical step of living apart and can include creating a formal agreement to manage your affairs. For some couples, it may also involve a specific court action to settle immediate concerns. Here’s a straightforward look at how to begin the process in Bel Air.

Taking the First Steps to Live Separately

In Maryland, you don’t need to file any special paperwork with the court to begin a separation. The process starts when you and your spouse begin living in separate homes. This is a crucial first step, as you must live apart for at least 12 months before you can file for certain types of divorce. “Living apart” means maintaining two different residences; you cannot simply live in separate rooms under the same roof. This period of separation is a foundational element of Maryland family law and establishes the timeline for formally ending the marriage later on. It’s the physical act of separating your lives that officially starts the clock.

Gathering Key Financial and Personal Information

Before you make any major decisions, it’s time to do some homework. Start by gathering as much financial and personal information as you can. Many people are surprised to find out about assets or debts they didn’t even know their spouse had. Collecting documents like bank statements, tax returns, investment account details, property deeds, and retirement plan information will give you a complete picture of your shared financial life. This isn’t about being sneaky; it’s about being prepared. Having this information organized will help you and your attorney create a fair and comprehensive separation agreement, which is a cornerstone of any family law matter. It ensures nothing is overlooked and you can advocate for yourself effectively.

Tips for Communicating with Your Spouse

Communicating with your spouse during a separation is often the hardest part. Emotions are high, but it’s crucial to treat your conversations like a business transaction, not an emotional battle. Stick to the facts and focus on logistics. Avoid sending angry texts or emails, no matter how tempting it might be. Remember that anything you write can be used in court later, and a judge seeing hostile messages can seriously damage your credibility. This is especially true when determining child custody arrangements. If you receive a frustrating message, take a breath and wait to respond until you can do so calmly. Keeping your communication professional protects you and helps keep the process from becoming more difficult than it needs to be.

How to Create Your Separation Agreement

While not legally required, a separation agreement is a powerful tool that can make your separation much smoother. Think of it as a private contract between you and your spouse that outlines the rules for your time apart. This document can cover everything from who pays which bills and how you’ll divide property to arrangements for your children. Having a clear agreement in place helps prevent misunderstandings and disputes while you are separated. It also provides a solid foundation if you decide to divorce later. Working with an attorney to draft this document ensures your rights are protected and the terms are fair and legally sound.

When Should You File for a Limited Divorce?

The term “legal separation” can be confusing in Maryland because it’s not an official legal status. When people say they are legally separated, they often mean they have a limited divorce. A limited divorce is a court order that formalizes your separation without actually ending your marriage. You might need one if you and your spouse cannot agree on important issues during your separation. A judge can issue orders for financial support, use of the family home, and child custody. This provides a legally enforceable structure for your separation period, which is especially helpful when one spouse needs immediate financial or parental support.

Where to Find Affordable Legal Separation Assistance in Bel Air

Navigating a legal separation can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re worried about the cost. The good news is that you have several options for affordable and even free legal support right here in the Bel Air area. From private law firms offering consultations to non-profit organizations and court resources, there are paths available to help you move forward without breaking the bank. Finding the right support starts with knowing where to look.

The Law Office of Thomas K. Mallon, LLC

If you’re looking for personalized guidance, working with a dedicated family law attorney is an excellent choice. At The Law Office of Thomas K. Mallon, LLC, we specialize in helping individuals through the complexities of legal separation, including sensitive issues like spousal support and protective orders. We believe you should feel confident in your legal partner, which is why we offer free consultations to discuss your situation. Our office is conveniently located at Hickory Ave, Bel Air, MD 21014, and you can reach us at 410-838-9060 to schedule a meeting and get the clear, supportive advice you deserve.

Maryland Legal Aid Services

For those who meet certain income requirements, Maryland Legal Aid is a fantastic resource. This organization provides free civil legal services to low-income residents across the state. Generally, they assist households with an income below 125% of the federal poverty guidelines. If you are concerned about the cost of legal representation, it’s worth checking their eligibility criteria. You can find more information on how to get help and services directly from their website to see if you qualify for assistance with your legal separation.

Specialized Programs for Specific Groups

In addition to general income-based aid, you can find many Maryland organizations that offer free legal help designed for specific situations. Groups focused on supporting vulnerable populations—like domestic violence survivors, veterans, and the elderly—provide specialized assistance from a place of understanding. For instance, the Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service is a key resource that offers pro bono legal help to residents who can’t afford an attorney, focusing on critical areas like family law. These programs are designed to connect you with lawyers who volunteer their time for separation and divorce cases, ensuring your circumstances don’t stand in the way of getting quality legal advice.

Harford County Bar Foundation Pro Bono Programs

The Harford County Bar Foundation (HCBF) is another vital resource for residents of Harford and Cecil Counties who cannot afford legal representation. Through their pro bono programs, local attorneys volunteer their time to provide essential legal help for free. These programs are especially helpful for people dealing with family law matters like custody, divorce, and separation. The HCBF connects individuals in need with lawyers who can guide them through the legal process. You can learn more about their pro bono and referral service to find support for your case.

Using Court-Provided Self-Help Resources

The court system itself offers resources to help you manage your legal separation. The Circuit Court for Harford County provides access to several programs, including the Maryland Court Help Centers, which offer free legal assistance for civil cases. These centers are designed to help you understand court procedures and fill out forms correctly, which can be a huge help if you are representing yourself. Taking advantage of these legal assistance programs can give you the confidence to handle your separation effectively and ensure you are following the proper legal steps.

Using a Certified Document Preparer

You might also consider using a certified document preparer, which can seem like a cost-effective way to handle the paperwork for your separation. A preparer can help you draft a separation agreement, the formal contract that details the terms of how you will live apart. While this can be helpful for getting the forms in order, it’s crucial to know their limitations. A document preparer is not an attorney and cannot offer legal advice or advocate for your best interests. Since a separation agreement is a legally binding document that will shape your future, working with an experienced family law attorney is the best way to ensure your rights are protected and the agreement is fair and complete.

What Key Issues Will You Need to Address?

A legal separation is more than just living in different homes. It’s a formal process that requires you and your spouse to make important decisions about your shared responsibilities. Without clear agreements, a separation can become just as complicated and stressful as a divorce. Addressing these key areas from the start protects both of you and provides a stable foundation for the future, whether you eventually reconcile or decide to formally end the marriage. By tackling these topics head-on, you can create a separation agreement that works for your family.

How to Arrange Child Custody and Support

When children are involved, their well-being is the top priority. A legal separation allows you to establish clear and enforceable arrangements for their care while you live apart. You’ll need to create a parenting plan that outlines both physical and legal child custody. This includes deciding where the children will live and how you will make important decisions about their education, health care, and religious upbringing.

Beyond custody, you must also determine child support. This is the financial contribution one parent provides to the other to cover the children’s living expenses. Maryland has specific guidelines for calculating this amount, and putting a formal agreement in place ensures your children’s needs are consistently met.

How to Divide Your Property and Finances

Figuring out your finances is a critical step. During a legal separation, you remain legally married, which has significant financial implications. You’ll need to decide how to handle marital property, assets, and debts. This includes everything from who stays in the family home to how you’ll manage joint bank accounts and credit card bills.

Creating a separation agreement can clarify property division and prevent future disputes. For some couples, separation offers a way to maintain certain financial benefits, like filing taxes jointly or keeping a spouse on a health insurance plan. A comprehensive family law attorney can help you understand your options and protect your financial interests during this transition.

Understanding Separate vs. Marital Property

It’s essential to know the difference between marital and separate property. In simple terms, marital property is anything you or your spouse acquired during the marriage, like your home, cars, or retirement accounts. Separate property is anything you owned before the marriage, or assets you received individually as a gift or inheritance during the marriage. While a court won’t divide your property during a limited divorce, identifying and listing everything now is a critical step. This process forms the basis of your separation agreement and sets the stage for a fair and equitable distribution if you later decide to pursue an absolute divorce.

How New Property and Debts Are Handled

A common question is what happens to assets or debts acquired after you separate. Generally, any property you buy or debt you take on after the date of separation is considered your separate property. However, this is precisely why a separation agreement is so important—it establishes a clear cut-off date, preventing future arguments. This formal agreement protects you from being held responsible for your spouse’s post-separation spending and clarifies that your new assets are yours alone. A separation is also a crucial time to update other legal documents to reflect your new reality, which is a core component of estate planning.

How to Settle Spousal Support and Insurance

In some cases, one spouse may need financial assistance from the other during the separation. This is known as spousal support or alimony. The goal is to ensure both partners can maintain a reasonable standard of living while they are apart. Your separation agreement should clearly state whether one person will pay support, how much will be paid, and for how long.

One of the main reasons couples choose legal separation over divorce is to maintain health insurance coverage. Often, an employer’s health plan will allow a separated spouse to remain on the policy, which isn’t possible after a divorce is finalized. Addressing these details in your agreement provides financial clarity and security for both of you.

How Much Does Legal Separation Cost in Maryland?

Thinking about the financial side of a legal separation can be stressful, but understanding the potential costs can help you plan and feel more in control. The total expense depends heavily on your unique situation, especially whether you and your spouse can agree on the major issues. The two main costs you’ll encounter are court filing fees and attorney fees. While every case is different, knowing the typical ranges can give you a clearer picture of what to expect as you move forward.

What to Expect for Attorney Fees and Court Costs

When you file for a limited divorce in Maryland, you’ll start with a court filing fee, which is generally between $165 and $185, depending on the county. This is a standard administrative cost to get your case into the court system.

The more significant expense is typically attorney fees. If your separation is uncontested, meaning you and your spouse agree on all terms, the total cost could range from $2,000 to $5,000. This usually covers your attorney’s time for drafting agreements and filing paperwork. However, if your separation is contested and you disagree on key issues, the cost will be higher because it requires more time for negotiation, or even litigation. An experienced family law attorney can give you a more precise estimate during an initial consultation.

Average Costs for Legal Separation

It’s helpful to have a general idea of what to expect financially, but remember that costs can vary dramatically. While some studies show that the average legal separation costs in the U.S. can be quite high, this figure is often skewed by extremely complex cases. A more useful way to think about it is in terms of a range. If you and your spouse agree on most issues, your separation could cost as little as a few thousand dollars. However, if your case involves significant conflict, extensive assets, or a custody battle, the costs can climb much higher. The single biggest factor influencing the final price tag is the level of cooperation between you and your spouse.

Typical Hourly Rates for Attorneys

The primary driver of your legal costs will be your attorney’s fees, which are almost always billed on an hourly basis. Across the country, these rates can range from $200 to $500 per hour, with highly experienced attorneys in major metropolitan areas sometimes charging more. This hourly rate reflects a lawyer’s experience, reputation, and the complexity of the work involved. The total number of hours your case requires will depend on how much negotiation is needed. This is why we offer a free consultation at The Law Office of Thomas K. Mallon, LLC. It gives you a chance to understand our approach and discuss potential costs before making any financial commitment.

Potential Fees for Additional Experts

In some separations, you may need to bring in other professionals to provide specialized advice, which adds to the overall cost. For example, if you and your spouse own a business or have complex investments, you might need a forensic accountant or a financial advisor to help sort through the details. If you own real estate, a property appraiser will be needed to determine its value. In cases with significant conflict over child custody, a court may sometimes appoint a child psychologist to provide recommendations. These expert fees are not required in every case but are common when specific, high-value assets or contentious parenting issues are involved.

How to Keep Your Legal Expenses Down

You have more power over your legal costs than you might think. The most effective way to keep expenses down is to work toward an uncontested separation. If you and your spouse can communicate and find common ground on your own, you’ll save a significant amount on legal fees.

If you hit a few roadblocks, consider mediation. A neutral third-party mediator can help you resolve disagreements without the high cost of going to court. You can also reduce costs by being organized. Gather all your financial documents and complete as much paperwork as you can on your own. This reduces the number of hours your attorney needs to spend on your case. Finally, be upfront about your budget. During a free legal consultation, you can discuss fees and create a strategy that works for your financial situation.

Can a Legal Separation Become a Divorce?

Yes, a separation can absolutely become a divorce later on. In Maryland, many couples view separation as a necessary first step toward formally ending their marriage. While the state doesn’t offer an official status called “legal separation,” the act of living separately is a critical component of the divorce process. If you and your spouse live in different homes, are not intimate, and both intend for the separation to be permanent, you are establishing grounds for an eventual divorce.

This period of separation is more than just a waiting game. It’s a valuable opportunity to work through the details of your split before heading to court. By creating a comprehensive separation agreement, you can outline arrangements for your finances, property, and children. This document can then be incorporated into your final divorce decree, making the entire process smoother and more predictable. Think of separation as the foundation you build before finalizing the structure of your divorce. It allows you to untangle your lives thoughtfully and deliberately, setting the stage for a more amicable resolution.

How to Transition from Separation to Divorce

Making the move from separation to a formal divorce involves a few key legal steps. The most important tool in this transition is your separation agreement. This document, which you and your spouse create together (ideally with the help of your respective attorneys), addresses all the major issues, from asset division to spousal support. Once signed, it can be presented to the court and integrated into your final divorce judgment. This makes the court process much more straightforward, as you’ve already done the hard work of negotiating the terms. To officially begin the process, one spouse must file a Complaint for Absolute Divorce and ensure the other spouse is properly served with the legal papers.

What’s Required to Finalize a Divorce After Separating?

To finalize your divorce in Maryland, you need to meet specific legal requirements. If you and your spouse can agree on all terms, you may qualify for a mutual consent divorce. This path requires you to submit a signed separation agreement that resolves all issues, including property rights, alimony, and matters related to child custody and support. If you cannot reach a full agreement, you will likely need to use the 12-month separation ground. This requires that you and your spouse have lived completely separate and apart, without interruption, for at least one full year before the court can grant your divorce.

Find the Right Legal Support for Your Situation

Going through a separation can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. Finding the right legal support is a key step in protecting your interests and making the process smoother. Fortunately, Bel Air residents have several options, whether you need full representation or just some initial guidance. Your best choice will depend on your specific circumstances, including your financial situation and the complexity of your case.

For those with limited income, several organizations offer help. Maryland Legal Aid provides free civil legal services to qualifying individuals, covering family law issues like divorce and child custody. Another excellent resource is the Harford County Bar Foundation, which works to help residents access legal assistance when they cannot afford an attorney. These programs are designed to ensure everyone has support, regardless of their ability to pay.

If your situation requires more dedicated attention, seeking personalized legal representation from a family law attorney is often the best path. A lawyer can offer tailored advice, handle all the paperwork, and represent you in negotiations or in court. Many firms, including ours, offer free consultations to help you understand your options before making any commitments. Additionally, the Maryland Courts website lists various legal assistance programs and self-help resources for those who may be representing themselves. Taking the time to explore these avenues will help you find the support that feels right for you.

Related Articles

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a court order to be considered separated in Maryland? No, you don’t need to go to court just to start the separation process. In Maryland, separation begins the day you and your spouse start living in separate homes with the intention of ending the marriage. However, if you need the court to make decisions about finances or child custody during your separation, you would file for a “limited divorce,” which is the court-ordered version of a legal separation.

Can my spouse and I still live in the same house while we are separated? To meet the legal standard for a divorce based on separation, you must live in completely separate residences. Maryland law is very clear on this point; simply sleeping in different bedrooms under the same roof does not count. The court requires this physical separation to show that there has been a true break in the marital relationship.

What happens if we don’t create a separation agreement? While a separation agreement isn’t legally required, proceeding without one can create a lot of confusion and conflict. Without a written plan, you and your spouse may disagree on how to handle bills, share parenting time, or use joint property. This uncertainty can lead to expensive legal disputes. A separation agreement acts as a clear, private contract that provides stability and predictability for everyone involved.

Can I start dating other people during a legal separation? This is a sensitive area because even with a limited divorce, you are still legally married. Dating someone else could potentially complicate your case, especially if you later file for a divorce on fault-based grounds like adultery. It’s wise to proceed with caution and discuss the potential legal implications with your attorney before you begin a new relationship.

If we get a limited divorce, do we have to get a final divorce later? Not at all. A limited divorce is a tool to help you and your spouse live apart with legal protections in place. It does not automatically lead to a final, absolute divorce. Some couples use this time to work on their relationship and eventually reconcile. Others use it as a structured stepping stone toward a final divorce. The choice of what comes next remains entirely up to you.

Read more: the current grounds for divorce in Maryland.