Welcome back to #FamilyFriday! In the last several weeks ERA Law Group, LLC moved to its new location at 20 Ridgely Avenue, Suite 204, Annapolis, Maryland. We are excited to welcome you to our new office!
On this week’s #FamilyFriday article, ERA Law Group, LLC wants to discuss some recent changes in Maryland Law including the admissibility of Domestic Violence Orders in divorce cases and getting back your maiden name!
Prior to October 1, 2017, Courts could not use the fact that there was a Domestic Violence Order, such as a Protective Order, as a ground for granting a divorce or for considering custody. This meant that victims of domestic violence could not admit as evidence a Domestic Violence Order s/he had obtained. Even if s/he did speak of a prior Domestic Violence Order, the Court was obligated to disregard this information when making its decision. As of October 1, 2017, this statute has been repealed and Courts are now permitted to consider and parties may admit into evidence Domestic Violence Orders.
Previously when a party filed for absolute divorce and wished to return to their maiden name, they were required to make such a request in the initial pleading. If the party failed to do so, they would then have to file a separate pleading requesting a name change. What should have been a seemingly quick and easy process turned into a burdensome time consuming mess. Not anymore! As of October 1, 2017, a former spouse now has eighteen (18) months after the final decree of absolute divorce to return to their maiden name.
If you or someone you know needs help navigating their divorce, tell them to call ERA Law Group, LLC today at (410) 919-1790.