A contested divorce in Maryland is governed by Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 7-103, which establishes grounds including mutual consent (no separation required) and absolute divorce after a 6-month separation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ firm-wide documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%.
Contested Divorce Lawyer Maryland
Under Maryland law, a contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on key issues such as property division, alimony, child custody, or child support. The statutory framework is found in Md. Code, Family Law Article, Title 7 (Divorce) and Title 9 (Custody). Maryland is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. The Circuit Court (Family Division) in the county where you reside has jurisdiction over all contested divorce proceedings. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience to every contested divorce case.
Last verified: April 2026 | Circuit Courts of Maryland (Family Divisions, statewide) | Maryland General Assembly — official site
For the full text of Maryland’s divorce statutes, visit Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 7-103 (Maryland General Assembly — official site). For custody guidelines, see Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 9-101 (Maryland General Assembly — official site).
In Maryland Circuit Courts, prosecutors and family law judges routinely expect parties to have completed financial disclosure before the first scheduling conference. We have observed that failing to provide complete discovery early can delay the case by months.
- File a complaint for absolute divorce in the Circuit Court (Family Division) of your county.
- Serve the respondent with the summons and complaint via sheriff or private process server.
- Exchange financial affidavits, tax returns, and property appraisals within 30 days.
- Attend court-ordered mediation to attempt settlement on all contested issues.
- If mediation fails, prepare for a contested trial with witness testimony and exhibits.
- Receive the final decree of divorce from the Circuit Court judge.
In Maryland, a contested divorce carries no criminal penalty but involves significant financial and custodial consequences determined by the Circuit Court under equitable distribution principles.
| Issue | Classification | Incarceration | Financial Impact | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equitable Distribution | Civil | None | Division of marital property; potential alimony under § 8-205 | None | Court may order sale of assets or transfer of retirement accounts |
| Child Custody | Civil | None | Child support under § 12-202 guidelines | None | Parenting time schedule; relocation restrictions |
| Contempt of Court | Civil/Criminal | Up to 6 months (criminal contempt) | Fines up to $1,000 | None | Possible attorney fee award to opposing party |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. The firm’s track record in family law matters demonstrates a deep understanding of Maryland’s contested divorce process. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the statute that governs equitable distribution in every Virginia divorce, reflecting the firm’s commitment to shaping family law.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. In Maryland family law matters, the firm has achieved numerous favorable outcomes including dismissals, reduced charges, and negotiated settlements. Results may vary. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Our location in Rockville is approximately 30 miles from the Circuit Court for Montgomery County (Family Division), with access via I-270 and I-495. If you are searching for a contested divorce lawyer near Maryland, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves the communities of Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Wheaton, Kensington, Potomac, Olney, Damascus, Clarksburg, Takoma Park, and Chevy Chase. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Contested Divorce in Maryland
How much does a contested divorce cost in Maryland?
It depends. Contested divorce in Maryland involves filing fees at the Circuit Court (Family Division) plus attorney fees. Costs scale with complexity: custody evaluations, property appraisals, pension analysis, and trial preparation all affect fees. High-asset cases involving business valuation or stock options require substantial retainers. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. discusses fee structure at initial consultation — (888) 437-7747, by appointment only.
Contested divorce costs in Maryland vary based on complexity, including custody evaluations and property appraisals.
What is the contested divorce process in Maryland?
The contested divorce process lawyer Maryland follows begins with filing a complaint for absolute divorce in the Circuit Court. The process includes service of process, discovery, motions practice, and potentially a trial. Under Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 7-103, grounds must be established. The Circuit Court for the relevant county (Family Division) oversees all proceedings.
The contested divorce process in Maryland involves filing a complaint, discovery, mediation, and potentially a trial in Circuit Court.
How long does a contested divorce take in Maryland?
A contested divorce in Maryland typically takes 6 to 18 months from filing to final decree. Factors affecting timeline include custody evaluations (add 2-4 months), pendente lite hearings for temporary support or custody (30-60 days), and trial scheduling. The Circuit Court (Family Division) manages the case timeline.
A contested divorce in Maryland typically takes 6 to 18 months from filing to final decree.
Do I need a lawyer for a contested divorce in Maryland?
Yes. A contested divorce involves complex legal issues including equitable distribution of marital property, alimony under Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 8-205, child support under § 12-202, and custody under § 9-101. A Contested Divorce Lawyer Maryland provides trial representation and navigates the contested divorce process effectively.
Yes, a lawyer is essential for a contested divorce in Maryland due to complex legal issues.
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Last verified: April 2026