Divorce & Family Law in Maryland

Maryland offers both fault (adultery, desertion, cruelty) and no-fault (mutual consent or 6-month separation) grounds. The filing fee is $165. Uncontested mutual consent divorces cost $5,000-$8,000 and don't require a separation period. Contested cases average $15,000. Maryland follows equitable distribution with specific rules distinguishing marital from non-marital property. The state reformed alimony law in 2020 to require courts to consider both parties' needs, ability to pay, and specific statutory factors. Montgomery County (Bethesda, Rockville) and Anne Arundel County attorneys charge $300-$600/hr driven by proximity to DC. Maryland requires child support calculations using the Income Shares model and comprehensive parenting plans.