What is a divorce based on mutual consent grounds?

Divorces can take a long time to complete from beginning to end. In some instances, the parties can obtain an absolute divorce based on mutual consent grounds if certain requirements are met. First, there MUST be a written and signed settlement agreement that resolves all the issues including marital property, child custody, child support, alimony, and use and possession of the marital home. Second, there must also be a completed child support guidelines worksheet if child support is involved. Both parties must be satisfied with the agreement and the court must also be satisfied with the agreement. If child custody is part of the agreement, the court must be satisfied that the custody schedule is in the best interests of the minor child(ren).

A lawyer can help you draft the agreement and file the necessary paperwork with the court to help you obtain your final absolute divorce. Filing for an absolute divorce based on mutual consent grounds helps the parties avoid costly litigation and is expeditious once the agreement is drafted and signed. If you have any questions, please contact us at (443) 741-2567 and we would be happy to meet with you to answer all of your questions.

One of the most difficult conversations you will have during your divorce is speaking with your kids about getting divorced. It is natural to feel anxious or scared about having this conversation. Here are some helpful tips to consider:

1. Make a plan as to how you will tell them. Whether you decide to sit them down with your ex, do it alone, or engage the services of a counselor to help you, it is important to have a defined plan as to how and when you will do it. Be mindful that timing is critical; you should not do it before school, during holidays, or during other important times. It is recommended that you find a time that the kids will have to process the information.

2. Do not play the blame game. You do not want your children to feel caught in the middle. Your children do not need to know every little detail from either side. Using phrases like “we made a decision to separate” may help convey that it was a joint decision as to avoid the kids feeling that they are caught in the middle or have to pick a side.

3. Be sure to tell your children what will change in their routine. Give them the reassurance that everything will be fine and also give them time to ask questions. It is your duty to explain to them who they’re going to live with, their new schedules, and what will be changing about their lives.

4. Be patient as your kids process the information. It is normal that they will have a reaction. Make sure to give them the space to feel and express to you what is going on with them. Using the services of a counselor may help in the transition.

While divorce is never an easy topic to discuss with children, it is important to remember that children need consistency and routine. If you have any questions about the divorce process, please contact us at (443) 741-2567 and we would be happy to assist.

What is temporary alimony?

Temporary alimony is a monetary amount that a court may award before a divorce is finalized. It is often known as “pendente lite alimony" and the goal is to keep the financial status of the party who is seeking it status quo during the pendency of the divorce case. It is usually awarded in the early stages of the divorce process. The court considers several factors in determining whether to award temporary alimony including having to determine what the parties financial needs are and the other party’s ability to pay temporary alimony. Even if the court awards a party temporary alimony at a pendente lite hearing, it does not necessarily mean that the court will award alimony once the parties obtain an absolute divorce.

If you are considering filing for divorce, you should understand how alimony could impact your case. Alimony can have a significant impact on your life and how you move forward. If you have any questions, please call (443) 741-2567 and we would be happy to meet with you to discuss your options.