Divorce and separation in Rockville, Maryland
Some couples choose separation because they do not wish to divorce for religious, financial, or other reasons. Legal separation can also serve as a trial period while couples discover whether they can resolve their differences. Stacy Blondes Talbott helps clients determine whether separation best suits their needs.
Legal separation
In many states, legal separation refers to a signed separation agreement that lays out the terms of the separation, such as stipulations regarding child custody, child support, alimony, and property division.
However, in Maryland, legal separation as such does not exist. To accomplish the same purpose and obtain the same benefits that legal separation affords in other states, you need to file for a limited divorce in Maryland. The limited divorce or separation can be based on the following:
- Voluntary separation with no reasonable expectation of reconciliation
- Desertion
- Cruelty
- Excessively vicious conduct
Because most couples eventually get an absolute divorce, many attorneys avoid separation or limited divorce, saving the client the cost of two lawsuits. However, if insufficient grounds for absolute divorce exist, or one party is financially harming the other, then a client may benefit from a limited divorce. Limited divorce can sometimes offer tax or health insurance advantages that an absolute divorce does not provide.
Tailoring an effective and fair separation agreement
When you sit down with Ms. Talbott to review your situation, she can help you weigh the pro’s and con’s of obtaining a separation or limited divorce. Your reasons and objectives for considering separation and the practicality of moving forward with a separation agreement are discussed.
Together we select the approach most suited for your circumstances, using negotiated settlement, mediation, collaborative law, or litigation to achieve your goals. As your Rockville divorce attorney, Ms. Talbott always keeps your best interests in mind. She feels compassion for your situation, but can be as aggressive as necessary in pursuing a fair and effective separation agreement on your behalf.
Similar to other family law services provided by our firm, you receive personalized attention and have direct contact with your lawyer. She explains the process, answers your questions, and keeps you apprised of progress.
Arrange a consultation with Stacy Blondes Talbott to discuss your separation
Rely on an experienced attorney for legal advice regarding family law issues. Call 301-637-8591 or contact us online today to arrange a confidential, no obligation consultation with an experienced family law attorney. The Stacy Blondes Talbott law office is located one block from the Montgomery County, Courthouse. Parking is available. The law firm offers legal services at reasonable fees.