Understand Self-Representation from Maryland Divorce Lawyers
For various reasons, spouses may choose to resolve their cases without the help of Maryland divorce lawyers. The procedures you must follow for self-representation are the same as if you had a lawyer, except you will be responsible for complying with all of the Court Rules and filing the proper legal forms. Read more about our online legal services that provide all the documents you need and legal advice.
Some of the factors that are considered in whether or not to use a lawyer in a divorce are:
- Lawyers fees involved
- The complexity of the case
- Desire to control the timing of procedures and costs
Before you decide whether or not to go the self-representation route in your legal matter, consider the legal and emotional aspects of the divorce. If you find it challenging to keep one from interfering with the other, hiring a family law lawyer is best. Dividing marital property, deciding child custody and access issues, negotiating spousal support, if any, and determining child support will have long-lasting consequences.
You have the right to proceed without a divorce lawyer, but the divorce process can be complex. If you choose to move with self-representation, we offer online legal services that will provide you with legal advice plus all the legal forms you need for a fixed and affordable fee. We provide detailed instructions so you can represent yourself effectively and know what to say and how to act in the divorce hearing. Read More.
What is Involved:
The spouse who files for the divorce is called the Complainant. The other spouse is called the Respondent. If you are the Complainant, you will file a Complaint for Divorce. If you are the Respondent to the Complaint, you will have been served with a Writ of Summons and Complaint and will have to respond in a timely manner.
Below are factors to consider before filing a Complaint for Divorce:
- Where to file the Complaint.
- How to file.
- Grounds for Divorce – Fault vs. No-fault
Where to File:
You can file the divorce in the county where you live or where your spouse lives or works.
Filing Your Complaint for Divorce:
You can hand deliver or mail the Complaint to your local Court Clerk. You must serve a copy of the Complaint on your spouse through The Sheriff or a private process server.
Grounds for Divorce:
Your choice of filing for a fault vs. a no-fault ground will affect how your spouse will respond and react to your Complaint, so careful consideration must be given. The grounds for divorce can also involve property and support issues. A lawyer can assist you in making this decision.