Managing a divorce when in a same-sex marriage can add a level of complexity to the proceedings. Not only can spouses feel more pressure related to their marriage and its dissolution, but they may find themselves wondering how a same-sex marriage will impact their rights and options.
An Owings Mills LGBTQ divorce lawyer can walk clients through the process and protect their rights during these difficult times. Call a compassionate divorce attorney with Nguyen Roche Sutton today.
Legally, LGBTQ divorces look much the same as heterosexual divorces. Either party can file for a no-fault divorce after a 12-month separation, and the couple has the right to decide to dissolve the marriage mutually. In addition, Maryland allows either partner to file an at-fault divorce on the grounds of adultery, desertion, cruelty, or insanity, as well as any criminal conviction.
Whether the divorce is at fault or no-fault, however, there are several things that any divorcing couple needs to take into account—and LGBTQ divorces are no exception. Working with an Owings Mills LGBTQ divorce attorney could help either partner feel more confident that their rights have been protected throughout the process.
Dividing assets during a divorce often proves highly contentious. While Maryland does protect some assets, including those that each party brought into the relationship or assets protected by a prenuptial agreement, it is common for both parties to fight over the division of marital assets.
Each individual wants to protect their financial futures as much as possible. While Maryland’s equitable distribution system means that each party should take fair assets out of the marriage, an LGBTQ divorce lawyer in Owings Mills could help protect their client’s rights.
Navigating child custody agreements and child support arrangements can be particularly challenging for individuals in LGBTQ relationships. Sometimes, the child may only have one legal parent recognized on paper, making it more challenging to establish the other parent’s rights and responsibilities.
Working with an experienced LGBTQ divorce attorney in Owings Mills could help families establish an arrangement that works in the best interests of the child, including both custody arrangements and child support.
When one partner relies on the other’s income, often in exchange for caring for the home and children, they may struggle financially if the marriage dissolves. In that case, the court may award the lower-income partner alimony for a period of time.
The partner who needs to seek alimony and the partner who needs to pay it may need to work with a family law attorney who understands their needs and will fight to protect their rights. A lawyer could also help both parties reach a fair agreement or provide mediation support in cases where an agreement proves difficult.
Working with a legal professional is essential if you are thinking about or have decided to end your marriage and need help with your next steps.
An Owings Mills LGBTQ divorce lawyer could help clients understand their rights and how to protect assets, including those brought into the marriage and those that may have been acquired throughout the relationship.
Reach out to Nguyen Roche Sutton today to discuss the next steps in the divorce process.
