Prince Frederick Divorce Lawyer

Divorce is never easy, but with the right support, you can move through the process with clarity, dignity, and confidence. Whether your separation is amicable or highly contested, there are critical decisions to be made—about your home, your finances, and your children—that will shape your future for years to come.

At Fanning Law, we provide thoughtful, results-oriented divorce representation. Attorney William C. Fanning, Jr. brings more than 30 years of experience to every case, along with a deep commitment to protecting your rights and achieving lasting, fair outcomes. Our Prince Frederick divorce lawyer is here to help you make informed decisions and pursue the best path forward, whatever your situation may be.

Divorce in Maryland: Understanding the Basics

Prior to October 1, 2023, Maryland recognized both “limited” and “absolute” divorce, though laws have since changed so that only an absolute divorce is now offered in favor of finalizing matters efficiently and permanently. An absolute divorce is the legal end of the marriage. Grounds for absolute divorce in Maryland include a six-month separation, irreconcilable differences, and mutual consent (no separation period required if both parties agree and settle all major issues).

We will assess your circumstances to determine the most appropriate and efficient route to the dissolution of your marriage. Whether you’re ready to file or just beginning to consider your options, we’ll make sure you understand your rights and the legal process ahead.

Common Key Issues in a Prince Frederick Divorce

Divorce doesn’t just end a marriage; it also determines how former spouses live independently after dissolution. Some of the most critical aspects of your divorce are likely to include the following:

Division of Marital Property

Maryland follows the principle of “equitable distribution,” meaning the court seeks to divide marital property fairly but not necessarily equally. This can include distributing homes, vehicles, retirement accounts, family businesses, and debts. Property acquired during the marriage is generally considered marital, with some exceptions for inheritance, gifts, or assets set aside in prenuptial or postnuptial agreements.

At Fanning Law, we help clients inventory assets, determine what is marital vs. separate property, and pursue a distribution that reflects their contributions and future needs.

Alimony (Spousal Support)

Spousal support is not automatic in Maryland, but it may be awarded based on factors such as income disparity, the length of the marriage, and the ability of one spouse to become self-supporting. We represent both paying and receiving spouses in alimony disputes and can also assist with modifications if financial circumstances change after divorce.

Child Custody and Support

If you and your spouse share children, custody and support will likely be the most sensitive—and consequential—parts of your divorce. We work to create custody arrangements that reflect your child’s best interests while respecting your parental rights. We also ensure that child support is calculated fairly and based on accurate financial information.

Local Experience Matters in Prince Frederick Divorce Cases

Every Maryland jurisdiction has its own nuances, and Prince Frederick is no exception. The Calvert County Circuit Court located in Prince Frederick is where all local divorce filings are handled. Attorney William C. Fanning, Jr. has extensive experience with the judges, clerks, and court staff in Southern Maryland courthouses, which gives our clients an important advantage. Familiarity with local rules and expectations helps us keep your case on track and avoid unnecessary delays or procedural pitfalls.

Beyond the courtroom, we understand the dynamics of life in Prince Frederick, from military families stationed nearby, to dual-income households commuting to D.C., to long-time residents with deep roots in the community. We use that insight to craft legal strategies that are not only sound but also realistic for your situation.

Choosing the Right Divorce Process

There’s more than one way to get divorced, and not every case needs to be fought out in court. We’ll help you determine which process best suits your goals and your relationship with your spouse, including:

• Uncontested divorce – Where the parties agree on all issues and simply need help finalizing the legal paperwork.
• Negotiated settlement – Where both sides work through their attorneys to reach agreements outside of court.
• Mediation – A voluntary process using a neutral third party to guide the couple to resolution.
• Litigation – When issues cannot be resolved amicably and must be decided by a judge after a formal court hearing.

At Fanning Law, we’re skilled negotiators and fierce litigators. Whether we’re resolving matters peacefully or advocating forcefully in court, your goals and best interests always come first.

What to Expect During the Divorce Process

The divorce timeline can vary, depending on whether your case is contested and how much needs to be resolved. In a typical Prince Frederick divorce, you can expect to go through the following steps:

1. Initial consultation and case strategy
2. Filing of divorce complaint and service of process to the adverse party
3. Exchange of financial information (discovery)
4. Negotiation, mediation, or settlement discussions
5. Hearings or trial (if needed)
6. Final judgment and entry of divorce decree

We manage every stage of this process for you, handling paperwork, protecting your rights, and keeping you fully informed.

Frequently Asked Divorce Questions in Prince Frederick

Do I have to live separately for six months to get divorced in Maryland?

Not necessarily. If you and your spouse agree on all issues and file under mutual consent, you don’t have to wait six months or live apart. Otherwise, a six-month separation may be required depending on your circumstances.

Can I keep the family home?

That depends on many factors, including whether the home is considered marital property, who has custody of the children, and whether either party can afford to maintain it. We’ll help you evaluate your options.

What if my spouse doesn’t want the divorce?

Maryland allows for divorce even if only one spouse wants it. If you meet the legal grounds, such as a six-month separation or irreconcilable differences, the court can grant a divorce over your spouse’s objection.

Speak with a Prince Frederick Divorce Lawyer Today

Divorce is a turning point—and the choices you make today will shape your future. Whether you’re preparing to file or responding to a spouse’s petition, Fanning Law is ready to help. We’ll listen to your concerns, explain your options, and build a strategy focused on your goals. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.