Law Office of Nicholas T. Exarhakis Law Office of Nicholas T. Exarhakis
Providing empathetic legal counsel with your families' best interest in mind

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Annapolis Divorce Lawyer

Experienced in Absolute & Limited Divorce in Anne Arundel County, Maryland

Divorce is the dissolution of a marriage and it allows for two people to legally move forward separately. When two people within a marriage make a mutual decision to go their separate ways, or if only one person decides to end the marriage, a petition for divorce must be filed in the state of Maryland.

At the Law Office of Nicholas T. Exarhakis, we offer aggressive, yet professional legal representation for individuals experiencing divorce or any complex family law matters involving divorce. We can help to protect your legal rights, as well as your financial interests. It is always our personal goal to help a client obtain the outcome that they desire for now and in their future.

Contact us online or call (410) 593-0040 for a free phone consultation with our Annapolis divorce lawyer. We have more than 25 years of experience.

Types of Divorce in Maryland

In the state of Maryland, there are two types of divorce: absolute and limited.

  • Absolute Divorce - This will legally end the marriage by settling all issues such as property division, custody, and support. Once this has been finalized, you and your spouse are eligible to re-marry.
  • Limited Divorce - This occurs when not all issues are agreed upon. It is common for couples to attend a court hearing to address these concerns. If both parties eventually agree, via mediation or negotiation, then they will be eligible for an absolute marriage.

Unlike some states, Maryland does not provide for legal separation. However, a period of separated living under specific conditions can serve as grounds. It’s important to work with knowledgeable legal counsel to navigate these nuances effectively.

At the Law Office of Nicholas T. Exarhakis, we also handle divorce involving:

What Are the Grounds for Divorce in Maryland?

  • Adultery
  • Desertion
  • Mutual consent
  • Insanity
  • Violent treatment
  • Incarceration of 3+ years
  • At least 1-year of separation

If the grounds for divorce did not happen in the state of Maryland, there is a 6-month residency requirement. If the grounds for divorce is insanity, then the residency requirement is 2 years. If both spouses reside in Maryland and that is where the grounds for divorce happened, then there is no residency requirement.

Understanding the specific grounds for divorce is crucial. Each ground has detailed criteria, and some may require proof of behavior or circumstances. Seeking professional legal advice from a divorce attorney in Annapolis can ensure that you understand and meet these requirements, leading to a smoother process.

Do You Need a Divorce Attorney in Annapolis?

While a divorce lawyer is not required for divorce in Maryland, they can significantly help when your divorce involves children, retirement, asset division, or financial support. Our divorce attorney will also put your best interests first when formulating a strategy. This will help you in the short and long term. Attorney Nicholas T. Exarhakis intends to save you both time and money, as well as the headache that ensues with divorce.

A knowledgeable divorce attorney can help anticipate challenges, create a personalized approach for your case, and ensure that your rights and assets are protected. This assistance becomes invaluable when facing complex negotiations or court proceedings.

Divorce Blogs

Call (410) 593-0040 to setup a phone consultation with an Annapolis divorce lawyer. Your first call is free of charge. Do not hesitate to reach out to us today.

 

Navigating Child Custody During Divorce in Annapolis

Child custody is often the most contentious issue in a divorce. In Annapolis, and more broadly in Maryland, custody can be classified into legal and physical custody. Legal custody refers to the right to make significant life decisions on behalf of the child, such as education and healthcare, while physical custody pertains to where the child will live. Maryland courts focus on the best interests of the child, examining factors like the stability of the home environment, the child's relationship with each parent, and each parent’s ability to meet the child's needs.

For parents embarking on the divorce journey, it's crucial to create a comprehensive parenting plan that outlines living arrangements, visitation schedules, and decision-making protocols. We provide mediation services that guide parents through these sensitive negotiations to avoid courtroom disputes. Our collaborative approach ensures that both parents' voices are heard, focusing on the child's well-being. This process can make a significant difference in achieving an amicable and balanced approach to co-parenting.

Understanding Property Division in Maryland Divorces

Property division in Maryland follows the principle of equitable distribution, which doesn't always translate to equal. Instead, the division is based on fairness and considers various factors like the length of the marriage, the contributions of each spouse to the marriage, and the circumstances surrounding the divorce. Marital property includes any assets acquired during the marriage, with certain exceptions such as gifts and inheritances that are kept separate.

Our Annapolis divorce attorneys help clients identify which assets are subject to division and provide strategic advice to protect their financial interests. We understand the importance of your financial future and work diligently to ensure a fair distribution. Whether negotiating property settlements or litigating in court, our focus remains on providing comprehensive legal support to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family. Our experience in handling high-net-worth divorces allows us to address complex asset issues, from business ownership to investments.

We Handle a Variety of Matters Involving Divorce

Our Annapolis divorce lawyers have years of experience and can handle complex matters that are affected by the separation. This can be a stressful time -- do not go through it alone. Our attorneys can help!

Other matters involving divorce:

Each divorce case involves distinct challenges, whether it’s dividing complex financial portfolios or arranging suitable custody arrangements for your children. At the Law Office of Nicholas T. Exarhakis, we focus on understanding these unique elements and strive to find amicable solutions for all involved parties, leaning on our comprehensive experience in handling diverse family law matters.

We Can Protect Your Rights & Safeguard Your Future

An experienced Anne Arundel County divorce lawyer at the Law Office of Nicholas T. Exarhakis will be well aware of your legal rights and what you may be entitled to. Please contact an experienced Annapolis divorce lawyer at our firm immediately to discuss your legal rights and to learn more about divorce. We are dedicated to ensuring that our clients receive personal attention and commitment throughout the entire divorce process. We provide superior legal commitment to clients throughout Maryland.

Reasons To Choose Our Firm:

  • Backed By Over 25 Years Of Experience
  • Cost-Effective Legal Solutions
  • Complimentary Case Consultations
  • Exceptional Track Record Of Success

Please contact or our divorce attorney in Annapolis at (410) 593-0040 to set up a free initial consultation.

Commonly Asked Questions

What is the difference between absolute and limited divorce in Maryland?

In Maryland, an absolute divorce is the legal termination of a marriage, resolving all related issues such as property division, custody, and support, and allowing both parties to remarry. A limited divorce, on the other hand, is granted when not all marital issues have been agreed upon, and it may require court hearings to address these concerns. Limited divorce does not end the marriage legally, but it can lead to an absolute divorce once all issues are settled.

Is legal separation recognized in the state of Maryland?

Maryland does not recognize legal separation in the same way some other states do. However, if spouses live apart with the intention of ending their marriage and do not engage in sexual intercourse, this can be considered grounds for divorce under the condition of separation. It's important to note that this separation must be continuous and without interruption to qualify as a ground for divorce in Maryland. Continuous separation needs to be proven, often requiring detailed documentation and possibly testimonies to affirm the intent and duration of the separation.

How can a divorce attorney in Annapolis assist me with my divorce?

An Annapolis divorce attorney can provide significant assistance during your divorce, especially when dealing with complex issues such as child custody, asset division, spousal support, and financial matters. The attorney will prioritize your interests and develop a strategy to save you time, money, and stress. With professional legal representation, you can navigate the divorce process more effectively and secure a favorable outcome for your future.

What are the residency requirements for filing a divorce in Maryland?

The residency requirements for filing a divorce in Maryland depend on where the grounds for divorce occurred. If the grounds happened outside of Maryland, at least one spouse must have resided in the state for a minimum of six months before filing. If the grounds for divorce are based on insanity, the residency requirement extends to two years. However, if both spouses live in Maryland and the grounds for divorce occurred there, there is no residency requirement.

What should I expect during a divorce mediation process?

During divorce mediation, both parties work with a mediator to address and resolve various issues related to their separation. This includes property division, child custody, and support arrangements. Mediation is often a preferred method because it encourages cooperative problem-solving and is typically faster and more cost-effective than litigation. The process involves an open dialogue where both parties are encouraged to express their needs and preferences.

How can I prepare for my first meeting with a divorce attorney?

Preparation is key for your first meeting with a divorce attorney. Make sure to gather financial documents, such as tax returns, bank statements, and property deeds. Create a list of questions or concerns you want to discuss. Being organized and clear about your priorities helps your attorney understand your case and develop a tailored strategy. This approach allows your attorney to provide more focused, effective advice from the start.
  • “I am speechless that this attorney fights for the people. It was not about the money or just another case. He came prepared to fight for you and get the settlement you deserve. He was able to get my nephew custody of his daughter.” - Kerron Y.
  • “Hands down the best attorney in Maryland. If you need an attorney that will come prepared ready to fight for your case. He is by far the best. If you are in Maryland and need an attorney please call Nick. You will not be disappointed.
    ”     - Omar R.
  • “When our young family was going through a difficult time, he demonstrated uncommon understanding and support, in addition to his expertise in divorce law. Mr. Exarhakis later guided us through a complex family real estate transaction.” - R. H.
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