vorce can go one of many ways: peacefully, amicably and agreeable on one end of the spectrum, divisive, angry and nasty on the other end. Regardless of how the emotions play out, the rights of both parties still have to be seen to in order to maintain a level of fairness. It’s not uncommon for people to know their rights under the law, but they exist, and a Divorce Attorney in Hagerstown, MD, can help ensure that they are enforced.
When two individuals get married, they are entering into what is known as the marriage contract. It is a literal contract that is enforceable by law, and offers benefits that aren’t available to people who remain single. The contract is active the entire time a couple is married, and only ends when one dies or a divorce happens. Divorce laws take a look back at the marriage in order to determine what assets entered the marriage and when. As an example, one spouse has a retirement account that was opened during the marriage, and built up in that time. The spouse that does not own a retirement account may be entitled to a percentage of the retirement account under the law. A Divorce Attorney in Hagerstown, MD, can further explain how Maryland laws apply to a divorce situation.
Sometimes, a marriage ends peacefully because both spouses have drifted apart, but remain largely friendly. Just because both parties are willing to part amicably does not mean that either should give up their rights to assets that were gained during the marriage. It’s not always easy to simply divide everything up and walk away, either. The Day & Schiszik law firm in Hagerstown, MD, can help mediate a settlement between the two in order to find a level of satisfaction and agreement that suits everyone involved. In the event that there are children, the lawyer can assist in setting up a custody arrangement that gives children the maximum amount of time possible with each parent.
Divorce is a legal matter that can become difficult when least expected. Having a lawyer to help with the situation at hand can ease the burden that is being faced.