Maryland law permits individuals to seek dissolution of marriage under two primary grounds: fault-based and no-fault. A no-fault divorce proceeding eliminates the necessity to prove marital misconduct, such as adultery or desertion. Instead, the parties can pursue a divorce based solely on a specified period of separation, demonstrating an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. For instance, a couple who have lived separately for twelve months can pursue a divorce regardless of who is responsible for the marital breakdown.
The availability of no-fault divorce simplifies the process, potentially reducing legal fees and emotional distress. By removing the requirement to litigate specific wrongdoings, parties can often reach settlements more amicably. The introduction of no-fault grounds represents a shift in legal philosophy, recognizing that sometimes marriages simply end without one party being solely to blame. This approach also acknowledges the privacy of marital relationships, avoiding the need to publicly air potentially sensitive and damaging accusations.
