Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland

My husband told me he was leaving me and packed clothes yesterday and left. He is employed with NSA with Top Secret Clearance. He has been very abusive to me and the police have come to our home on several occasions in response to my calls. He refuses to leave the marriage as much as he has said to avoid alimony. (i am on disability) He has gone to NSA to report that I provoked the incidents. He said today that NSA would be coming to our home to mediate that we dissolve ou marriage so he wont lose his clearance. As well as escort him to pick up his belongings. Would this excuse him from desertion/abandonment ground for divorce?


Asked on 12/20/12, 7:00 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Sher Wagshal and Sher

Not at all. His leaving constitutes a clear case of desertion. You could immediately file for a limited divorce and seek alimony. If there are minor children in the home you could also ask for custody, support and exclusive possession of the marital residence. After 1 year you could amend your divorce and request a final divorce. I strongly recommend that you consult with an experienced family law attorney before getting involved in any discussions with him or anyone from NSA over the terms of dissolution of the marriage. If there are cost issues in seeking legal assistance, your county bar association has programs to provide reduced fee or even free attorneys depending on your income qualification.

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Answered on 12/20/12, 7:44 am


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