Maryland State Laws
Updated for 2026
Maryland Divorce Laws
Your complete guide to divorce in Maryland. 2023 reform eliminated mandatory separation for mutual consent divorces.
Understanding Maryland Divorce Law
Property Division
Maryland follows Equitable Distribution.
Fair DivisionGrounds for Divorce
No-Fault: Mutual consent OR 6-month separation (irreconcilable differences)
No Separation RequiredChild Custody
Courts consider best interests with comprehensive factors.
Best InterestsChild Support
Uses the Income Shares Model.
Income Shares ModelChild Custody Factors
1
Fitness of parents
2
Character and reputation of parties
3
Age and health of parents and child
4
Preference of child
5
Agreements between parties
6
Proximity of homes to each other
7
Opportunity for visitation
8
Employment demands of each parent
9
Financial circumstances
10
Length of separation from natural parents
Spousal Support
Temporary Alimony
During divorce proceedings
Rehabilitative Alimony
For education or job training
Indefinite Alimony
For long marriages or if earning capacity will never match
Key Statutes
Md. Code Fam. Law 7-103
Grounds for Divorce
Absolute divorce grounds
Md. Code Fam. Law 8-205
Property Division
Equitable distribution factors
Md. Code Fam. Law 9-101
Child Custody
Best interests standard
Recent Changes
2023
Major Divorce Reform
Maryland eliminated mandatory separation periods for mutual consent divorces, allowing immediate no-fault filing.
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