What is a “no fault” divorce?

A “no fault” divorce is where neither spouse is considered responsible for the breakup of the marriage.

Technically, Maryland does not have a no fault divorce. The closest thing to a no fault divorce in Maryland is when spouses are divorced on grounds of a one-year separation.

Under this ground, if you and your spouse have lived separate and apart in separate residences without interruption and without sexual relations for one year, you can obtain an absolute divorce.

It is not necessary to show that the separation was voluntary. Nor is it necessary to show that either spouse deserted the other or was otherwise at “fault” for the dissolution of the marriage.