What factors will a court consider when granting a divorce?

In Maryland, the court will consider a variety of factors when granting a divorce. The most important factor is whether the marriage is irretrievably broken. If one spouse has abandoned the marriage, then a court will usually grant a divorce. Additionally, if one spouse has committed adultery or engaged in extreme cruelty like drunkenness or drug abuse, then a court will also consider this when deciding if a divorce should be granted. The court will also look at the financial status of the couple. Assets and debts of both parties will be examined to determine an equitable division of the property. The court will also consider alimony, which is a court-ordered payment of support to one spouse from the other. Alimony may be granted if one spouse has been living a lower standard of living for an extended period of time due to the actions of the other spouse. The court will review the conduct of both parties while they were married. If one spouse has been at fault, then the court may take this into consideration when deciding if a divorce should be granted. The court will also look at the needs of any minor children, and if custody should be awarded to one parent. In addition, child support may be ordered to be paid from one parent to the other. Finally, the court may consider whether other alternatives are available that could potentially save the marriage. If the couple is willing to attempt reconciliation, the court may order desistance proceedings, which would require the couple to have counseling and attempt to resolve their issues. If these proceedings are unsuccessful, then the court may grant the divorce.

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What factors will a court consider when granting a divorce?

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