Maryland has enacted new laws regarding divorce provided you do not have any minor mutual children. Effective October 1, 2015 a party can file for and absolute divorce immediately after the execution of a written Settlement Agreement provided the parties have no minor children together and the Settlement Agreement resolves the all issues related to alimony and distribution of property. Both parties must appear before the court at the absolute divorce hearing. The new legislation does not change the residency requirements before the filing is allowed, but if you meet those requirements there is no separation period before the filing.