Get Counter-complaint For Absolute Divorce - Maryland Courts - Mdcourts

Filing a Counter-complaint for Absolute Divorce can be a crucial step for those who have been served with a divorce complaint in Maryland. This guide will provide you with clear, step-by-step instructions to help you accurately complete the Counter-complaint form and navigate the filing process online.

Follow the steps to complete your Counter-complaint for Absolute Divorce effectively.

1. Click the 'Get Form' button to access the Counter-complaint for Absolute Divorce form. This will allow you to open it in an editable format online.
2. On the first page, fill in your full name as the Defendant/Counter-Plaintiff, along with your spouse's name as the Plaintiff/Counter-Defendant. Ensure to include current addresses and telephone numbers for both parties. If you cannot find your spouse's address despite your efforts, consider reaching out to a legal assistance helpline for support.
3. In line 1, enter the month, day, and year of your marriage, followed by the city or county and the state of the marriage. Indicate whether the marriage was a religious or civil ceremony.
4. For line 2, check all relevant statements that apply to your case, and refer to the provided list of grounds for an Absolute Divorce.
5. If you indicated that 'We have no children,' skip lines 5 through 9. If you are parents, provide full names and dates of birth for all children involved.
6. In line 4, detail any prior court cases that involve you, your spouse, or the children, including the court where they were heard.
7. On page 2, list previous custody or visitation cases you have been involved in and attach any recent court orders regarding these cases.
8. List any individuals claiming a legal right to custody or visitation with the children in line 6, and specify the current living arrangements of the children in line 7.
9. Indicate your desired custody arrangement in line 9, and check if you are seeking alimony in line 10, providing reasons as necessary.
10. In line 11, if you request a decision on property matters, check the relevant types of property involved, and attach a list of debts if applicable.
11. On page 3, check the applicable grounds for divorce in line 12. Be mindful that the selection of grounds does not guarantee a divorce will be granted.
12. Complete the affirmation at the bottom of page 4, ensuring you date and sign the form.
13. Prepare to attach any additional documents such as an Answer to the Complaint (CC-DR 50), a Property Settlement Agreement if you have one, and a Financial Statement if child support or alimony is requested.
14. Submit the completed documents to the Clerk of the Court, ensuring they reference the original case number provided with the initial Complaint.
15. Arrange to serve the other party with copies of all documents filed, using the Certificate of Service to document the delivery date and the recipient's address.
16. If property is at issue, complete a Joint Statement of Parties Concerning Marital and Non-marital Property before the court date.
17. Prepare for a hearing by securing a corroborative witness to provide testimony about your situation and ensure they meet the criteria established.

Start completing your Counter-complaint for Absolute Divorce online today for a smoother filing process.