Absolute Divorce

Maryland & Virginia Divorce Attorney

Guiding You Through the Process of Absolute Divorce with Care and Experience

When a marriage can no longer be repaired, obtaining a divorce in Maryland and Virginia provides the legal finality you need to move forward. At The Burton Firm, our experienced Maryland and Virginia divorce attorney helps clients navigate every step of the process — from filing the initial complaint to resolving issues involving property, support, and custody. We understand how personal these cases can be and provide the steady guidance you deserve during this important transition.

Serving Southern Maryland and Northern Maryland, including Fairfax County, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, Howard County, Charles County, and Calvert County, we handle all aspects of divorce law with professionalism, compassion, and proven skill.

What Is an Absolute Divorce in Maryland and Virginia?

An absolute divorce permanently ends a marriage and allows each spouse to remarry. It also addresses all legal issues between the parties, including property division, alimony, and child-related matters. Unlike a limited divorce, that is available in Virginia only, an absolute divorce results in a final judgment that fully dissolves the marriage.

Our firm ensures every detail is handled properly, from filing the correct documents to representing you in court when necessary. We take the time to explain your rights and help you make informed decisions about your future.

Grounds for Absolute Divorce in Maryland

Maryland law allows for no-fault divorces. Moreover, in Maryland, parties do not need to live separate and apart to obtain a divorce in certain circumstances.

• 6 month separation
• Mutual consent
• Irreconcilable differences

Your divorce lawyer in Maryland will explain how these grounds may affect alimony, custody, and property division so you can make informed decisions about your case.

Grounds for Absolute Divorce in Virginia

Virginia law allows for both “no-fault” and “fault-based” divorces.

• Fault-based: The fault-based grounds include: (1) adultery, sodomy, or buggery committed outside the marriage; (2) conviction of a felony with sentencing to confinement for more than one year, actual confinement, and no resumption of cohabitation after knowledge of confinement; and (3) cruelty, reasonable apprehension of bodily hurt, or willful desertion or abandonment, with a required one-year waiting period from the date of such conduct
• No fault-based: The parties have lived separate and apart without cohabitation and without interruption for one year. However, if the parties have entered into a separation agreement and there are no minor children (either born of the parties, born of either party and adopted by the other, or adopted by both parties), the separation period is reduced to six months.

Issues Resolved During an Absolute Divorce

An absolute divorce case may involve several key issues that must be resolved before the court enters a final judgment. We provide comprehensive legal support for every stage, including:

• Alimony and Spousal Support
• Division of Marital Property
• Division of Retirement and Pension Assets
• Child Custody and Visitation
• Child Support

We approach each case with careful preparation and a focus on achieving fair, lasting resolutions — whether through negotiation, mediation, or courtroom advocacy.

Why Choose The Burton Firm

At The Burton Firm , we take pride in providing personalized, effective representation that prioritizes your needs. Attorney Aubrey Burton, Jr. brings decades of legal experience and a reputation for strong communication, professionalism, and integrity. We understand that divorce is both a legal and emotional process, and we are committed to helping you move forward with confidence and clarity.

Speak with a Maryland or Virginia Divorce Attorney Today

If you’re ready to take the next step toward an absolute divorce, our team is here to help. Contact The Burton Firm to discuss your situation with a knowledgeable Maryland or Virginia divorce attorney who will listen, guide, and advocate for you every step of the way.

Call (301) 420-5540 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation. You can also request a consultation directly through our website.