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Annapolis Divorce Attorney

Experienced in Absolute and Limited Divorce in 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 divorce lawyer in Annapolis. 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.

Keep in mind that legal separation does not exist in Maryland. Still, if you and your spouse live apart with the intention of ending the marriage, and do not have sexual intercourse, then separation can be utilized as a ground for divorce.

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.

Do You Need a Lawyer for Divorce?

While a 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.

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.


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:

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.

How can an Annapolis divorce attorney 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.

  • “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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