Maryland · Circuit Court — Family Division
Maryland family court, without the confusion.
Maryland Circuit Court handles divorce, custody, child support, and protective orders.
We walk you through exactly what to fill out, in plain English, and produce the forms ready to sign and file.
Where do you need help?
Coming soon
Divorce / Dissolution of Marriage
Start or respond to a divorce case. Covers petition, financial disclosure, and the complete filing packet.
Coming soon
Child Custody / Parenting Time
Establish custody and parenting time when you were never married or as part of a divorce.
Coming soon
Modify Custody or Parenting Time
Change an existing custody or parenting time order when circumstances have significantly changed.
Coming soon
Child Support
Establish or modify a child support order.
Coming soon
Establish Paternity
Legally establish parentage when the parents were not married.
Coming soon
Protective Order
Get an emergency order to protect yourself or your children from domestic violence or harassment.
Coming soon
Relocation (Moving with Children)
Request court approval to move with your children, or oppose a move.
Coming soon
Enforce a Court Order
Bring the other party back to court when they are violating an existing order.
Coming soon
Name Change
Change your name or your child's name through the court.
Coming soon
Spousal Support / Alimony
Request or respond to a request for spousal support or alimony.
What Maryland requires — before you file
1
6-month residency. You must have lived in Maryland for at least 6 months before filing for divorce.
2
12-month separation for no-fault divorce. Maryland requires 12 months of continuous separation for a no-fault absolute divorce, unless both parties agree.
3
Financial disclosure required. Both parties must exchange financial statements in cases involving support or property.
Maryland uses 'legal custody' and 'physical custody.' Maryland recently updated its divorce laws — a 6-month separation now qualifies for absolute divorce in most cases.
All 15 Maryland Counties
Maryland family law forms are filed in the county Circuit Court where you or the defendant lives.
Montgomery
Prince George's
Baltimore County
Baltimore City
Anne Arundel
Howard
Frederick
Carroll
Charles
Harford
Washington
Calvert
St. Mary's
Cecil
Wicomico