WHAT IS A WIFE ENTITLED TO IN A DIVORCE IN MARYLAND
DIVORCE ATTORNEY IN MARYLAND
What is a Wife Entitled to in a Divorce in Maryland
In Maryland, what a wife is entitled to in a divorce depends on various factors, but generally, the division of property, alimony, child custody, and child support are common considerations. Here are some key elements:
Marital Property Division
- Equitable Distribution: Maryland follows an equitable distribution rule, meaning marital property is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. Marital property includes assets acquired during the marriage, such as homes, vehicles, retirement accounts, and other financial assets. Courts consider factors like each spouse’s contributions to the marriage, the length of the marriage, and the financial circumstances of both parties.
- Non-Marital Property: Assets acquired before the marriage, inheritances, or gifts specifically given to one spouse are considered non-marital property and are generally not subject to division.
Alimony (Spousal Support)
A wife may be entitled to alimony if she demonstrates a financial need for support and if the court finds it appropriate based on factors like:
- The standard of living during the marriage.
- The duration of the marriage.
- The age, physical and mental condition of each spouse.
- The ability of the spouse seeking alimony to become self-supporting.
- The financial ability of the other spouse to pay alimony.
Alimony can be awarded on a temporary (pendente lite), rehabilitative, or indefinite basis.
Child Custody and Support
If children are involved, custody arrangements (legal and physical) will be determined in the best interest of the child. Factors include each parent’s ability to care for the child, the child’s relationship with both parents, and other relevant considerations.
- Child Support: The non-custodial parent (which could be the wife or husband) may be required to pay child support, calculated based on both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and other factors like health insurance and daycare costs.
Retirement and Pension Benefits
Marital portions of retirement accounts, pensions, and other long-term savings plans may be subject to division. A Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) might be necessary to divide certain retirement benefits.
The court considers various factors unique to each case to determine what the wife (or husband) is entitled to, aiming for fairness based on the circumstances of the marriage and divorce.
CALL Maryland Family Law Lawyer TODAY
Family law legal matters can be a very stressful and troubling topic for divorced couples, especially if children are involved. The Burton Firm understands how crucial it is to ensure legal matters are set up with the children in mind. Give us a call at (301) 420-5540 to speak to a Maryland Family Law attorney immediately.
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