Separation Agreements in Owings Mills, MD

Streamlining the Separation Legal Process

No one wants to think about the worst-case scenario. When we get married, we envision the union happily lasting forever. But as years go on, separation often becomes necessary for both the couple and their children. Thankfully, you don’t have to brave the process alone. The team at the Law Office of Kent L. Greenberg specializes in separation agreements, and we’ll ensure you and your former partner come to the best, mutually-beneficial decision. Our family law attorneys in Owings Mills, MD are here for you.

What Is a Separation Agreement?

A divorce separation agreement is a legal document that outlines how specific issues will be dealt with as you proceed with the separation. By drafting this agreement, you and your former partner will need to make important decisions regarding your finances, children, and other assets. A thorough marriage separation agreement may address any or all of the following points:

• Child support
• Child custody
• Spousal support/alimony
• Health insurance
• Income taxes
• Division of marital property
• Issues specific to your circumstances

The Basic Clauses of a Separation Agreement

Every couple is different, so it stands to reason that each separation agreement will have varying content. While we can’t tell you exactly how to write up an agreement without knowing your exact situation, we can walk you through the main clauses found in Maryland separation agreements. In many cases, divorcing couples choose to include clauses for the following:

Debts and Bills

Over the course of a marriage, couples incur lots of shared bills and debts. During the separation process, we’ll take a look at any credit cards, car loans, and other shared finances. Then, we’ll divide those debts with respect to any pre- or postnuptial agreements.

Name Changes

If you plan to change your name following a separation, it can be incorporated into the separation agreement.

Spousal Support

A separation agreement may have provisions for spousal support. The lower-income spouse can usually expect to get support from their former partner earning more. However, this arrangement is often temporary and only in effect until the lower-income partner gets settled on their own.

Children’s Issues

Ensuring a smooth transition for children is a top priority for many of our clients. The team at the Law Office of Kent L. Greenberg will explain children’s issues that should be addressed in your separation agreement, including custody, visitation, child support, and cohabitation agreements.

Marital Property Distribution

Maryland law does not assume a 50/50 split when it comes to dividing marital property. Instead, the courts take into account a variety of factors as they strive to split assets as equitably as possible. Your share of assets will depend on:

• Income
• Education level
• Current health
• Living standards
• “Fault” for the divorce
• Tax liabilities
• Length of marriage

Maryland’s Alternatives to Marriage Separation Agreements

Creating a legal separation agreement is a tough but necessary part of getting divorced. However, there are alternatives to make the process easier on you and your family. Instead of opting for just an agreement, you may choose to undergo mediation to ensure a fair split of assets. Yet other couples decide to draft a postnuptial agreement instead of fully separating. Here’s a quick overview of what each option entails:

• Mediation: Mediation is an essential step for many couples going through a separation. Not only does it minimize the stress of litigation, but it’s also easier on children and incurs fewer financial costs. During the mediation process, a designated person will work with you and your former partner to reach an amicable agreement.
• Postnuptial Agreements: Instead of getting separated, some couples choose to create a postnuptial agreement. This document outlines what will happen to assets should the couple end up getting divorced later on.

Consult With the Law Office of Kent L. Greenberg Today

Understanding separation and release agreements doesn’t have to be a headache. The friendly team at the Law Office of Kent L. Greenberg is here to help you and your spouse understand the basics of getting separated or organization mediation. Contact us today for your free case review.