Depending on who you ask, you might hear a litany of theories on how many married couples seek a divorce. Some may claim that half of all marriages end in divorce, while others may say it is even higher. However, these estimates may not be as accurate as you may think. No couple sets out in a marriage with the intent of divorce, but there is an assumption that they are increasingly more common. If you need divorce advice, contact a Maryland divorce lawyer today.
Here, we explore the national trends for divorce and how those trends compare to marriages in Maryland.
While divorce rates may have increased over the decades, there are still far more marriages occurring than divorces. Additionally, divorcing couples are not always in their first marriage.
Since 2000, the rate of divorce has decreased from 4 per 1000 to 2.5 per 1000. However, this may also be the result of a decline in marriage rates. In that same time, the marriage rate has dropped from 8.2 per population to 6.0.
These statistics again speak to the type of marriage.
These are just some of the more recent divorce trends. The reason for divorce and the difficulties in a marriage can come from a multitude of reasons, and each marriage is unique and based on a unique set of circumstances.
While every couple will have different experiences, there are several common reasons by which couples end their marriage:
Maryland’s divorce rate ranks relatively low compared to other states, with an average of 1.6 per 1000. This is part of the general trend downward for the state as it has fallen from 3.4 since 1990. This puts Maryland at 41st in divorce rates across the country.
A: In October of 2024, Maryland’s divorce law changed to eliminate specific grounds for divorce and categorize them instead into one of two categories. Instead of listing a reason for divorce as adultery, desertion, criminal convictions, 12-month separation, insanity, or violence, those seeking divorce can now do so after six months of separation or by identifying irreconcilable differences.
A: The amount of alimony a spouse can qualify for is based on a number of factors. When determining alimony, the length of the marriage, the capacity to earn, the income disparity, and other factors will play a role in the determination. Generally speaking, those marriages that last longer than ten years are more likely to have higher alimony payments.
A: Divorces are emotionally charged experiences that can fill both spouses with many lingering questions. While one spouse may recognize it is time to end the marriage, the other may not and refuse to allow the divorce. In these circumstances, the spouse seeking the divorce may file a Complaint for Absolute Divorce, which does not require the other party’s consent. It will be adjudicated, and final judgment will be rendered without agreement from both parties.
A: Under Maryland’s new law, you may seek a divorce from your spouse after separation for six months. Previously, couples needed to separate for a period of twelve months. The purpose of this separation is to allow both parties the opportunity to reconcile or work through the details of the divorce before the proceeding. If couples can agree on a divorce settlement during this time, the process after filing will be quicker and may save you money.
Choosing the person with whom you spend your everyday life is a decision that we hope will last forever, but sometimes people grow apart, or circumstances change. No matter the reason, the team at the Law Offices of Todd K. Mohink, PA, is here to help. Our team is ready to answer your questions about divorce and to help you navigate the difficult process. Contact us today.
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