The Impact of Infidelity on Divorce Proceedings: Legal Considerations

Infidelity is a complex issue that can have far-reaching implications, both emotionally and legally. When a marriage ends due to infidelity, the ensuing divorce proceedings can become a battleground for hurt feelings and legal disputes. Below aims to explore the multifaceted impact of infidelity on divorce, covering both the legal and emotional aspects that couples must navigate. Understanding these considerations can help you make informed decisions and prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.

Infidelity on Divorce

Alimony and Spousal Support

Maryland, as of October 1, 2023, will be only a “no-fault” divorce state, meaning neither spouse has to prove any marital misconduct or wrongdoing like adultery to divorce. Alimony, also known as spousal support, is often a point of contention in divorce cases impacted by adultery. Fault-based factors like infidelity are considered in alimony determinations. Some factors focus solely on financial need and the ability to pay. However, a minority of states still permit judges to factor in infidelity and behavior leading to divorce when awarding alimony. In these states, the adulterous spouse may face some financial consequences. If you are perceived as the main cause of the failed marriage due to your affair, you could get less alimony based on your “guilt”. However, an experienced divorce lawyer can argue to limit the impact of adultery on the alimony outcome. Carefully examine the laws in your state to anticipate how infidelity could sway alimony and spousal support decisions.

Property Division

When divorcing couples have to divide marital property and assets, most states follow the “equitable distribution” model versus an equal 50-50 split. Maryland abides by equitable distribution, meaning property is divided in a fair manner based on factors like need and contribution, not necessarily equally. Marital misconduct like adultery can potentially be considered under the contribution factor. For example, if one spouse’s infidelity directly led to major financial losses, or they misused marital funds to support an affair, judges may award a greater share of assets to the innocent spouse. However, showing a direct financial impact is crucial for adultery to affect property division. Using marital money for gifts, travel, or living expenses related to the extramarital relationship could be persuasive evidence. Hiding assets or secretly draining accounts due to an affair could also influence property division. Consulting experienced divorce counsel is key to understanding how infidelity fits into equitable distribution arguments in your unique case.

Child Custody and Visitation

In child custody disputes within a divorce, a parent’s adultery often does not directly determine custody arrangements. Rather, the circumstances and impact surrounding the affair are considered. For instance, if the cheating parent exposed children to physical, psychological, or moral harm through their actions, like neglecting childcare duties to carry on an affair, it could weigh against them in custody decisions. If the children were impacted by parental fighting over the infidelity, reducing contact with the adulterous parent may be appropriate. However, if the affair was truly kept separate from parenting duties and caused no direct impact on the minor children, custody may be unaffected. Adultery alone does not definitively dictate custody outcomes. Skilled divorce lawyers can argue how the nuances of a parent’s infidelity should or should not sway custody and visitation based on the children’s best interests.

Practical Steps and Tips

If you are going through a divorce and infidelity is involved, the first critical step is to consult with an experienced family law attorney in your state. An attorney who specializes in divorce cases can provide invaluable guidance on how adultery factors into divorce proceedings in your jurisdiction and what legal strategies you should consider adopting. For example, an attorney can advise if proving adultery would impact asset division or alimony awards. A competent divorce lawyer will know the nuances of state laws and court practices regarding infidelity. With proper legal counsel, you can make informed decisions on how to navigate the complex divorce process. Do your research to find a reputable law firm and set up a consultation. Going into a divorce with legal expertise on your side will make a big difference, especially when sensitive issues like adultery are present.

Financial Planning

Divorces involving infidelity often have complex financial implications that require expert planning. Meeting with a financial advisor who specializes in divorce finances can help you gain clarity. They can analyze your assets, account for debts and projected expenses, and estimate post-divorce incomes to devise a viable financial plan. This planning is crucial because divorces are financially draining; adding the costs of infidelity such as legal fees, therapy, and more makes comprehensive planning a must. A financial planner can also advise you on dividing assets equitably, budgeting during the divorce, planning for single-income living, and adjusting investment and retirement accounts. If alimony is on the table, a financial expert can calculate justified amounts based on lifestyle needs. Further, they can help you avoid financial pitfalls like hiding assets or improper documentation. With professional financial guidance tailored to your divorce situation, you can make sound choices to preserve wealth and achieve financial stability.

Infidelity complicates the already intricate process of divorce as it can affect the ultimate legal determination or resolution. By understanding these implications, you can better prepare for the legal battles that lie ahead.

Charting the Course for Co-Parenting: The Importance of a Parenting Plan and How to Create One that Meets the Needs of Both Parents and Children

Navigating the waters of co-parenting after a divorce or separation can be a challenging journey. One of the most effective tools to ensure smooth sailing is a comprehensive parenting plan. A well-crafted parenting plan can provide a clear roadmap for co-parenting, reducing conflicts and ensuring the needs of both the parents and children are met. Below details the importance of a parenting plan and provides guidance on how to create one that serves the best interests of your family.

What Not to Do When Grieving Your Divorce: 5 Tips for Moving through Divorce and Getting on with Your New Life

Understanding the Role of a Parenting Plan

A parenting plan is a written agreement that outlines how parents will raise their children after a divorce and/or during a separation. It covers various aspects of parenting, including custody arrangements, visitation schedules, decision-making responsibilities, and procedures for resolving disputes. A well-thought-out parenting plan can provide stability and consistency for children, reduce conflicts between parents, and ensure that both parents remain actively involved in their children’s lives.

Key Elements of a Comprehensive Parenting Plan

  1. Custody and Visitation Schedule: The parenting plan should clearly outline where the children will live and when they will spend time with each parent. This includes regular schedules, as well as arrangements for holidays, vacations, and special occasions.
  2. Decision-Making Responsibilities: The plan should specify who will make decisions about the children’s education, health care, religious upbringing, and other important matters. This can be joint (shared by both parents) or sole (one parent has the authority).
  3. Communication Guidelines: The plan should establish guidelines for communication between parents, including the methods and frequency of communication, and how to share information about the children.
  4. Dispute Resolution: The plan should include a process for resolving disputes, such as mediation or arbitration, to avoid returning to court.
  5. Adjustments and Modifications: The plan should allow for adjustments and modifications as the children grow and circumstances change.

Steps to Create a Parenting Plan

  1. Consider the Needs of the Children: The best interests of the children should be the primary consideration when creating a parenting plan. Consider their ages, personalities, routines, and special needs, and how to provide a stable and nurturing environment for them.
  2. Communicate Openly and Respectfully: Effective communication is key to creating a successful parenting plan. Discuss your expectations and concerns openly and respectfully and be willing to compromise.
  3. Seek Legal Guidance: A family law attorney can provide valuable guidance in creating a parenting plan. They can help you understand your rights and responsibilities, and ensure the plan complies with the law.
  4. Use a Mediator or Counselor: If communication is difficult, consider using a mediator or counselor to facilitate the discussion and help you reach an agreement.
  5. Review and Revise: Once the plan is drafted, review it carefully and revise it as needed. It’s important to ensure the plan is practical, fair, and meets the needs of both parents and children.

Creating a comprehensive parenting plan is a crucial step in establishing a successful co-parenting relationship. While the process requires careful thought and open communication, the result can provide a clear roadmap for co-parenting and ensure the needs of both parents and children are met.

At Cynthia H. Clark & Associates, we understand the importance of a well-crafted parenting plan, and we’re here to help. Our experienced attorneys can provide the guidance and advocacy you need to create a parenting plan that serves the best interests of your family. Contact us today for a consultation.

Navigating the Rough Seas: Understanding the Grounds for Divorce in Maryland

Divorce is a difficult process and requires help and guidance. It’s a whirlwind of emotions, legal jargon, and paperwork. And when you’re dealing with the specific laws of Maryland, it can feel like you’re navigating rough seas in a storm. We’re here to help you understand the grounds for divorce in Maryland, and guide you through this challenging journey.

annapolis maryland divorce attorney

No-Fault Divorce: When It’s Nobody’s Fault

In Maryland, a no-fault divorce is granted when both parties agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Separation: The couple must have lived apart, without cohabitation, for at least 12 consecutive months.
  2. Mutual Consent: If the couple has a written settlement agreement, they can file for a no-fault divorce without the separation period, whether or not they have minor children.

Fault-Based Divorce: When The Blame Game Comes Into Play

Maryland also recognizes fault-based grounds for divorce. These include:

  1. Adultery: Adultery is one of the most emotionally charged grounds for divorce. It involves a spouse engaging in a sexual relationship outside the marriage. Proving adultery can be a complex process, as it requires clear and convincing evidence. This could include witness testimonies, photographs, or other forms of evidence. It’s important to note that the act of adultery can have significant implications on the division of marital assets and alimony in divorce proceedings. However, the impact varies depending on the specific circumstances and the laws of the jurisdiction.
  2. Desertion: Desertion, also known as abandonment, occurs when one spouse leaves the marital home without the consent or agreement of the other spouse, with the intent to end the marriage. The deserted spouse must not have provoked the desertion, and a 12-month period of continuous desertion is required for it to be a ground for divorce. Desertion can be a challenging ground to prove, as it involves demonstrating and proving the deserter’s intent to end the marriage. It’s also worth noting that constructive desertion, where one spouse’s behavior forces the other to leave, can also be a ground for divorce. A 12-month period is also required for constructive desertion.
  3. Conviction of a Crime: If a spouse is convicted of a crime, it can serve as a ground for divorce. The specifics can vary, but generally, the crime must be of a certain severity, resulting in imprisonment of at least three years. Additionally, a spouse must also serve at least twelve months of a sentence prior to the other spouse filing for divorce. The conviction of a crime can add a layer of complexity to the divorce process, particularly when it comes to issues like child custody. It’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable attorney to understand the potential implications of this ground for divorce.
  4. Insanity: Insanity is a less common but still valid ground for divorce. It involves a situation where a spouse has been diagnosed with a mental illness and has been confined to a mental institution for at least three years prior to filing for divorce, along with other requirements. This ground for divorce can be particularly complex and emotionally challenging, as it involves sensitive health information and stringent legal requirements.
  5. Cruelty or Excessively Vicious Conduct: This ground for divorce involves cases where one spouse has been physically abusive or cruel to the other, or to the minor child(ren), to the extent that cohabitation is unsafe or unbearable, resulting in no reasonable expectation of reconciliation. This could include physical violence, emotional abuse, or other forms of harmful behavior. Proving cruelty or excessively vicious conduct requires substantial evidence, including but not limited to medical records, photographs of injuries, and witness testimonies. It’s important to remember that anyone experiencing this type of behavior should seek immediate help from local authorities or a domestic violence hotline.

Each of these grounds comes with its own set of legal requirements and evidentiary standards.

Strategies for Navigating Your Divorce

Divorce in Maryland involves several steps, from filing the complaint to the final divorce decree. Understanding this process can help you navigate your divorce journey effectively.

Having an experienced lawyer by your side can make a world of difference in your divorce proceedings. They can guide you through the legal maze, advocate for your rights, and help you achieve a fair outcome.

Divorce is not easy, but with the right information and legal guidance, you can navigate this challenging process with confidence.

FAQs

Can I file for a no-fault divorce in Maryland if my spouse doesn't agree?

If your spouse doesn’t agree, you can still file for a no-fault divorce on the grounds of a 12-month separation if no other grounds are available.

What evidence is needed to prove adultery in a Maryland divorce?


Proving adultery in a Maryland divorce requires clear and convincing evidence. This can include witness testimony, photographs, or other forms of evidence.

What evidence is needed to prove adultery in a Maryland divorce?

Proving adultery in a Maryland divorce requires clear and convincing evidence. This can include witness testimony, photographs, or other forms of evidence.

Divorce and Mental Health: How to Cope with the Emotional Stress of Divorce and Prioritize Your Mental Health

Divorce can be a stressful and emotional process, with a range of complex legal, financial, and personal issues to navigate. It’s not uncommon for individuals going through a divorce to experience a range of emotional and mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and stress. In this article, we will explore the connection between divorce and mental health and provide guidance on how to cope with the emotional stress of divorce and prioritize your mental health.

annapolis maryland divorce attorney

Divorce can be a traumatic event that can have a significant impact on mental health. In fact, research has shown that individuals who go through a divorce are at a higher risk of developing mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.

There are a number of factors that can contribute to the link between divorce and mental health, including:

  1. Loss of social support: When a couple divorces, they often lose the social support network that they had as a couple. This loss of support can be particularly challenging for individuals who are already dealing with mental health issues.
  2. Financial stress: Divorce can be a financial strain on both parties, and financial stress can exacerbate mental health problems.
  3. Uncertainty: Divorce can bring a great deal of uncertainty and unpredictability, which can be difficult for individuals who struggle with anxiety or depression.
  4. Changes in routine: Divorce can disrupt an individual’s routine and sense of stability, which can contribute to feelings of anxiety and stress.

How to Cope with the Emotional Stress of Divorce

Coping with the emotional stress of divorce is critical for maintaining positive mental health and well-being. Here are some strategies for coping with divorce-related stress:

  1. Seek support: It’s important to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist during the divorce process. Talking about your feelings and concerns can help you process your emotions and feel less alone.
  2. Take care of yourself: It’s important to prioritize self-care during the divorce process. This may involve getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly. Taking care of yourself physically can help you feel better emotionally.
  3. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.
  4. Focus on what you can control: There may be many aspects of the divorce process that you cannot control, but focusing on what you can control can help reduce feelings of helplessness and uncertainty.
  5. Consider therapy: If you are struggling with mental health issues during the divorce process, it may be helpful to consider therapy. A therapist can provide support and guidance as you navigate the emotional challenges of divorce.

Prioritizing Mental Health During Divorce

In addition to coping with divorce-related stress, it’s important to prioritize mental health during the divorce process. Here are some strategies for prioritizing mental health:

  1. Take breaks: It’s important to take breaks from the divorce process and engage in activities that you enjoy. This can help reduce stress and provide a sense of balance and normalcy.
  2. Set boundaries: Setting boundaries with your ex-partner can help reduce conflict and protect your mental health. This may involve setting limits on communication or establishing clear boundaries around co-parenting.
  3. Be kind to yourself: Divorce can be a challenging and emotional process, and it’s important to be kind to yourself. This may involve giving yourself permission to feel sad or angry or seeking help when you need it.
  4. Stay focused on the future: While divorce can be a difficult process, it’s important to stay focused on the future and the opportunities that lie ahead. Focusing on positive aspects of your life can help you maintain a sense of hope and optimism.
  5. Stay organized: Staying organized and keeping track of important documents and deadlines can help reduce stress and provide a sense of control during the divorce process.

Divorce can be a difficult and emotional process, and it’s important to prioritize your mental health and well-being during this time. By understanding the link between divorce and mental health, and taking steps to cope with the emotional stress of divorce, you can protect your mental health and well-being. Remember to seek support, take care of yourself, and prioritize your mental health as you navigate the divorce process.

If you’re struggling with mental health issues related to divorce, it’s important to seek help from a licensed mental health professional. They can provide guidance and support as you navigate this challenging time in your life. With the right support and resources, you can emerge from the divorce process with a strong sense of resilience and a renewed focus on your mental health and well-being.

The Role of Social Media in Divorce Cases: Understanding How Social Media Can Affect the Outcome of a Divorce Case

Social media has become a ubiquitous part of our daily lives. We use it to connect with friends and family, share our thoughts and experiences, and even conduct business. However, social media can also have a significant impact on divorce cases. In this article, we will explore the ways in which social media can affect the outcome of a divorce case and provide advice for couples who are currently in a divorce or thinking about one and are active on social media.

Divorce in a Time of Facebook

How Social Media Can Affect Divorce Cases

Social media can affect divorce cases in several ways. First and foremost, social media posts and messages can be used as evidence in court. For example, a post or message that shows a party engaging in illicit behavior, such as infidelity or drug use, can be used to discredit that party’s character and potentially impact the outcome of the case.

Secondly, social media can also impact child custody and visitation arrangements. Posts that show a party engaging in inappropriate or dangerous behavior, such as excessive drinking or drug use, can be used to argue that the party is not fit to have custody or unsupervised custodial time with the children.

Finally, social media can also impact property division and spousal support arrangements. Posts that show a party engaging in lavish spending or living beyond their means can be used to argue that they do not need as much financial support or assets as they are requesting. Alternatively, it can be used to show that a party being asked to pay financial support to a spouse has the financial wherewithal to do so.

Advice for Couples in a Divorce or Thinking About One and Currently Active on Social Media

If you are currently in a divorce or thinking about one and are active on social media, there are several things you can do to protect yourself:

  1. Be mindful of what you post: Think twice before posting anything on social media that could be used against you in court. Avoid posting anything that could be seen as inappropriate or damaging to your case.
  2. Keep your accounts private: Consider making your social media accounts private, so only your closest friends and family can see your posts.
  3. Think before you message: Be cautious when sending private messages on social media. Remember that anything you say can be used as evidence in court.
  4. Don’t delete anything: If you have already posted something that could be damaging to your case, do not delete it. Deleting posts or messages can be seen as an attempt to hide evidence and can make you look suspicious.
  5. Consult with a lawyer: If you are unsure about how social media could impact your divorce case, it’s important to consult with a lawyer. We can provide you with specific advice and guidance based on the details of your case.

Social media has become an important part of our lives, but it’s important to remember that anything we post online can potentially be used against us in a divorce case. If you are currently in a divorce or thinking about one and are active on social media, it’s important to be mindful of what you post and how it could impact your case. By following the advice outlined in this article and consulting with a lawyer, you can help protect yourself and ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

Conquering Separation Anxiety: A Guide to Navigating Maryland Divorce with Confidence

Going through a divorce is a difficult and emotional time for many people. It can be overwhelming to think about ending a marriage and starting a new chapter in life. It is normal to feel anxious about the future, especially when it comes to divorce. Separation anxiety can manifest in many different ways, such as feeling worried, panicked, or uncertain about what lies ahead. However, it is important to understand that these feelings are normal and that you are not alone in your experience. Cynthia H. Clark and Associates, isn’t just a law firm in Maryland, we’re people too who have witnessed the anxiety caused by a divorce first hand, and we’re here to provide support and guidance during this challenging time.

Separation anxiety

Here are some tips for managing separation anxiety and preparing for a Maryland divorce:

  • Seek Support: One of the most effective ways to manage separation anxiety is to reach out for support from loved ones, friends, family, or a therapist. Talking about your feelings with someone you trust can help you process your emotions and provide a sense of comfort during this difficult time. Surrounding yourself with supportive people who care about you can help you feel less alone and more empowered to handle the challenges of divorce.
  • Create a Plan: Having a clear understanding of the steps involved in the divorce process, as well as a timeline, can help you feel more in control and reduce stress. When you have a plan, you know what to expect and can take the necessary steps to prepare yourself for each stage of the process. Your plan should include a timeline for important deadlines, a list of documents and information you need to gather, and a list of goals for the outcome of your divorce.
  • Educate Yourself: Understanding the laws and procedures of divorce in Maryland is important for making informed decisions and knowing what to expect during the process. Doing your research will give you a better understanding of the legal system, your rights, and the steps you need to take to protect your interests. You can also consult with an attorney to learn more about the process and how you can prepare yourself.
  • Focus on Self-Care: Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being during this time is crucial. Engaging in activities you enjoy, practicing mindfulness, or seeking therapy can help you manage stress and anxiety, and boost your overall sense of well-being. Exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep are also important for maintaining physical and mental health during this time.
  • Hire an Experienced Divorce Attorney: An experienced divorce attorney can guide you through the process, advocate for your rights, and help you reach a fair settlement. Your attorney can also help you understand the legal aspects of divorce, such as property division, alimony, and child custody. By hiring an attorney, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you have a strong advocate on your side.

At Cynthia H. Clark and Associates, we’re people too so we fully understand that divorce is a difficult and emotional time for many people. Our experienced divorce attorneys are here to provide support and guidance during this challenging time. We are committed to helping our clients navigate the divorce process and ensuring that their rights are protected. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you with your Maryland divorce.

In conclusion, separation anxiety is a normal response to the stress and uncertainty of divorce. By seeking support, creating a plan, educating yourself, focusing on self-care, and hiring an experienced divorce attorney, you can manage your anxieties and prepare yourself for the divorce process in Maryland. At Cynthia H. Clark and Associates, we are here to provide support and guidance during this challenging time.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.

Things to keep in mind when healing after a divorce

 When a marriage comes to an end, no matter how long it lasted, it can be a very difficult time for all involved. Often times the healing that occurs after a divorce can feel just as stressful as the divorce itself. One may wish for what used to be, one may choose to harbor resentment towards their ex-spouse or one may replay the failed relationship over and over again their minds to attempt to figure out why the marriage ended.

  Healing after a divorce is certainly a process that is different for each person. Jennifer Twardoski, a relationship coach and blogger for The Huffington Post, offers some things to keep in mind when healing after a divorce:

  • Healing takes time and patience. The length of time it takes one to heal can be days, months or years. For others, they may never truly fully heal. Be compassionate with yourself and give yourself the full amount of time you need to heal – do not base your period of healing off of what others have experienced.
  • Analyzing and replaying what happened over and over again is not going to change anything or make you feel better. This is not healthy as you are remaining attached to your suffering, which keeps you out of the present. You can get worn down physically as you put yourself through the grieving process over and over again.
  • Forgiveness is key.  Forgive not only your ex-spouse, but yourself. Even if you feel you are not able to do so, simply saying out loud “I forgive you”, despite whether or not you mean it, will aid in your healing process.
  • No relationship fully ends – it just changes form. Even though you are no longer married to your ex-spouse, the relationship doesn’t end. It has, at one time, existed and therefore continues to impact your life. If you have children with ex-spouse, you will continue to forever have a relationship with them. It will just be in a different form. When you come to accept the new state of the relationship, the healing can begin.

 Cynthia H. Clark & Associates, LLC is an Annapolis-based family law firm serving clients throughout the state of Maryland. If you and your spouse are considering a divorce, please contact our firm to reserve a consultation time at our office.

Emergence of Pet Custody Disputes

Often times, a client will be sitting in their attorney’s office discussing settlement terms of their divorce matter will bring up pet custody. They will say “she can have the timeshare … I don’t care about the Porsche … but under no circumstances can she have Fido!” Fido, or course, is not one of the parties’ children. He is the parties’ eight year old Beagle.

pet custody lawyer

This scenario is becoming more common as pets are not treated as items of property, but rather as members of one’s family and their companions. Elderly persons have a therapeutic, if not spiritual, attachment to their pets. Single persons rely on their pets for security. Grieving persons rely on their pets as a source of comfort. Young children experience pure joy and contentment at the companionship and friendship their pets provide. The Courts are beginning to change their outlook regarding pet custody disputes to adopt this point of view as well. More often than not, people are willing to expend copious amounts of legal fees to ensure that they receive ownership of their companion pets.

This scenario is becoming more common as pets are not treated as items of property, but rather as members of one’s family and their companions. Elderly persons have a therapeutic, if not spiritual, attachment to their pets. Single persons rely on their pets for security. Grieving persons rely on their pets as a source of comfort. Young children experience pure joy and contentment at the companionship and friendship their pets provide. The Courts are beginning to change their outlook regarding pet custody disputes to adopt this point of view as well. More often than not, people are willing to expend copious amounts of legal fees to ensure that they receive ownership of their companion pets.

Animals are technically considered to be property, and in divorce matters, as with any other items of property, the presiding Judge or Magistrate will typically equitably divide up all items of property between the parties. Animals would be included in this mix, similar to items of furniture or kitchen appliances. However, an increasing trend that is now emerging is that the Court is beginning to reject the strict property analysis when determining custody of parties’ pets, and is now using the best interest standard applied to determining child custody disputes. Many Courts are finding that animals have feelings and are individuals, and their welfare and best interest need to be taken into consideration when an award of custody is made.

Among those factors to be considered are which party paid attention to the pet’s basic daily needs; who takes the pet to the veterinarian; who provides for the pet’s social interactions (in the case of dogs) with other dogs and/or people; which party maintains appropriate supervisions to ensure state and local regulations are complied with; and which party has the greatest financial capability of providing for the pet’s needs.

I consider my dog, William Wallace (named after the valiant tough-as-nails warrior in Braveheart, but he is really more of a soft teddy bear), to be my first born child. I treat him just as I treat my son – he gets a birthday party, birthday presents, Christmas presents, and presents for no reason at all. I take him on car rides, and have special “Mommy-Wallace” time with just us. These issues speak to my heart, and if you find yourself in a dispute regarding pet custody, please contact me at Cynthia H. Clark & Associates, LLC

Restoration of Former/Maiden Name

 When a party divorces, often times a spouse will desire returning to your maiden name afterwards.

returning to your maiden name

 Under current Maryland law, a spouse who took on the other party’s name during the marriage may be restored to any former name:

  1. if they no longer wish to use that name;
  2. the name change is requested in the divorce action;
  3. the request is not for any fraudulent, illegal or immoral purpose. The request to begin returning to your maiden name name needs to be made at the time of the divorce and entry of a Judgment of Divorce.

HB793 of the 2017 (PDF) legislative session revised some of these requirements. Effective October 1, 2017, the request to be restored to a former name may now be granted within eighteen (18) months of the date of the divorce upon motion of the party requesting the restoration. Additionally, the request must be made by the spouse seeking the restoration of their former name. A spouse may not request the name change for the other spouse.

Cynthia H. Clark & Associates, LLC is an Annapolis-based family law firm serving clients throughout the state of Maryland. If you and your spouse are considering a divorce, please contact our firm to reserve a consultation time at our office.

Financial Preparation for Divorce

Financial preparation for divorce

Financial preparation for divorce is a large part of discussion when filing for a divorce in Maryland. It is important to review your financial situation when considering a separation to make sure you have a handle on your current financial position.

Review your debt and expenses. What are your monthly household expenses? If you are moving out of the marital home, will any of these monthly expenses increase? For what debt are you going to be responsible for? What assets will you have to fund your expenses and pay for your debt?

Focus on your personal financial preparation for divorce. Look into getting your own credit card if you have a joint card with your spouse or if you need an additional source of funds. Open your own bank account and have your salary directly deposited into this account. Set yourself up for financial success and to be independent.

Consider child support and alimony. If you have children, determine whether you will be responsible for payment of child support to your spouse or if you will be receiving support. Calculate the monthly expenses of your children – activities, clothes, food, etc. If you are the primary monetary contributor to your marriage,

Cynthia H. Clark & Associates, LLC. is an Annapolis-based family law firm serving clients throughout the state of Maryland. If you and your spouse are considering a divorce, please contact our firm to reserve a consultation time at our office.