Maryland Info
Maryland Divorce
Start Your Divorce
Find Professionals
Maryland Articles
Divorce Facts
Divorce Grounds
Residency
Divorce Laws
Mediation/Counseling
Divorce Process
Legal Separation
Annulments
Property Division
Alimony
Child Custody
Child Support
Divorce Forms
Process Service
Grandparent Rights
Maryland Articles
Agreements
Custody & Visitation
Child Support
Counseling
Divorce/General
Domestic Abuse
Financial Planning
Mediation
Property Division
Spousal Support
Info Categories
Contemplating Divorce
Children & Divorce
Divorce, Dollars & Debt
Divorce Laws
Divorce Process
Divorce Negotiation
More Information
Articles Checklists Research Center Cases of Interest Dictionary Encyclopedia Encyclopedia (pop-up) Blogs
For Professionals
Advertise With Us Free Network Page Join Our Network Submit Articles Sign In Network Sites
|
Is Maryland a Community Property State?
No, Maryland is not a "community" property state. It is an "equitable distribution" state. Unlike "community" property, "equitable" does not mean "equal." Equitable is defined as fair and just under the facts of the particular case. Therefore, the Court has discretion to evaluate each party's needs and entitlements. When determining the equitable distribution of property upon divorce, the Court must perform 3 steps: 1) identify the marital property, 2) value the marital property, and 3) decide whether or not to grant a monetary award and/or divide the marital pension assets as an adjustment of the equities and rights of the parties. Although equitable does not mean equal, often the equal division of assets in divorce is found to be the equitable result.
Navigate:
Home
States
Maryland Divorce Source
Maryland Divorce Articles, News and Resources
Property Division
Is Maryland a Community Property State?
Maryland law requires equitable distribution of property in a divorce. The court determines a fair award of property and debt. Unless the couple can reach a settlement, the court divides the marital property, pension, retirement, profit sharing or deferred-compensation plans. The court considers contributions of each party, the well being of the family, the property value, the economic circumstances of each spouse as well as current situations such as age, mental state, the duration of the marriage, and the interest each party has in the property.
|
![]() Find Professionals
Easily Connect With a Lawyer or Mediator
Have Divorce Professionals from Your Area Contact You!
|
Terms & Conditions | Privacy | Cookie Policy | Do Not Sell My Information
Established in 1996
Copyright© 1996-. All rights reserved by MH Sub I, LLC dba 3StepDivorce.