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Limited Divorce

Our Attorney Helps Clients Arrange a Limited Divorce in Montgomery County

We can explain your options to end a marriage

If you’re considering ending your marriage, you should know your options under Maryland law. At the Law Offices of Ellen L. Lee in Rockville, we’ve provided comprehensive family law and divorce services to our clients for more than 35 years. Our attorney offers you wise counsel and emotional support as you navigate a difficult time in your life.

Maryland law offers limited divorce and absolute divorce

In Maryland, two types of divorce are available. Absolute divorce is akin to a traditional divorce — a complete termination of the marriage. In an absolute divorce, the marital assets are divided, and custody and support issues are settled. To file for an absolute divorce, the law requires you to have legal grounds for dissolving the marriage, which include:

  • Adultery
  • Desertion
  • Conviction of a crime
  • Insanity
  • Cruelty of treatment
  • Excessively vicious conduct

When you do not have grounds for an absolute divorce, you can seek a Maryland limited divorce — also known as a legal separation. Limited divorce can be a step toward absolute divorce, because spouses who live separately for at least 12 consecutive months are eligible for an absolute divorce without any other grounds.

In a limited divorce, you and your spouse live separately, but you are still legally married. Limited divorce also provides an opportunity to work out arrangements for the following issues, which would be settled in an absolute divorce:

  • Child custody
  • Child support
  • Spousal support (alimony)
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Division of property

Grounds for limited divorce in Maryland

Like absolute divorce, you must have grounds to file for limited divorce in Maryland. At the Law Offices of Ellen L. Lee, we help you establish one of the following grounds to meet the criteria for limited divorce:

  • You and your spouse mutually agree to separate
  • Your spouse treated you or your child cruelly or abusively
  • Your spouse was excessively vicious toward you or your child
  • Your spouse deserted you or forced you out of the home

Limited divorce can be the path to a no-fault absolute divorce in Maryland. If you and your spouse live separately for at least 12 consecutive months, you are eligible for an absolute divorce without assigning fault.

Consult an experienced family lawyer today

When you decide to pursue a limited divorce, Maryland attorney Ellen Lee is here to support you. Learn more about your options by calling 301-417-5351 or contacting the Law Offices of Ellen L. Lee online.