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Desertion Divorce Lawyer Kent County — Your Options Under Maryland Law
Facing desertion in Kent County, Maryland? Under Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 7-103, desertion is a fault-based ground for absolute divorce after a 12-month continuous separation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. A Desertion Divorce Lawyer Kent County can explain your rights.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Kent County | Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 7-103 (official Maryland General Assembly)
Desertion as Grounds for Divorce in Kent County
Under Maryland law, desertion occurs when one spouse voluntarily leaves the marital home with the intent to end the marriage, without the other spouse’s consent, and remains away for at least 12 continuous months before filing for divorce. This is a fault-based ground under Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 7-103(a)(2). Unlike mutual consent divorce, desertion does not require a separation agreement, but you must prove the abandonment and the intent to permanently separate. An abandonment divorce grounds lawyer Kent County can help you gather the necessary evidence, such as proof of separate residences and lack of marital cohabitation, to establish this ground in court.
Official Resources
Insider Procedural Edge: Filing for Desertion Divorce in Kent County
In Kent County, desertion divorce cases are filed in the Circuit Court. The court requires proof of the 12-month separation and the intent to abandon. A spouse abandonment lawyer Kent County can help you handle this process.
- Step 1: Establish the date of separation and intent to abandon.
- Step 2: File a Complaint for Absolute Divorce (Desertion) in Kent County Circuit Court.
- Step 3: Serve the complaint on your spouse via sheriff or private process server.
- Step 4: Attend any scheduled hearings or mediation sessions.
- Step 5: Obtain a final decree of divorce based on desertion.
In Kent County, desertion divorce carries no criminal penalty but affects property division and alimony. The court considers fault when dividing marital assets.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Desertion (12-month separation) | Fault-based divorce ground | None | None | None | May affect alimony and property division |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case Results
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific Kent County family law case results are not listed, our firm-wide track record demonstrates our commitment to strong representation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Kent County Location
Our Rockville/MD location serves clients at Kent County courts, accessible via Route 213, Route 301, and Route 20. We serve the communities of Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Millington, and Betterton.
Looking for a Desertion Divorce Lawyer Kent County near you? We are here to help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Maryland require separation before divorce for desertion?
Yes. For desertion, you must prove a 12-month continuous separation with intent to abandon. No separation agreement is required, but proof of separate residences is needed.
How much does a desertion divorce cost in Kent County, Maryland?
It depends. The Circuit Court filing fee is $165, plus service of process ($40-$100) and other costs. Total costs vary based on complexity and whether the case is contested.
How is child support calculated in a desertion divorce?
It depends. Maryland uses child support guidelines based on combined adjusted income (Md. Code, Family Law Art. § 12-202). The formula considers number of children, health insurance, childcare, and parenting time.
How does custody work in a desertion divorce?
It depends. Maryland uses the best interests standard with factors including fitness, character, stability, and child’s preference. There is no presumption for either parent. Mediation is often ordered.
Can I get alimony in a desertion divorce?
It depends. Alimony may be awarded based on factors including the length of the marriage, the financial situation of each spouse, and the fault (desertion) may be considered. Rehabilitative or indefinite alimony is possible.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.