Domestic Violence and Divorce: What Are the Warning Signs?
For many people in Maryland, deciding to end a marriage is a deeply personal and emotional decision. In some marriages, certain behavioral patterns may raise concerns that go beyond ordinary disagreements. Signs such as excessive control over finances, isolation from friends or family, or a persistent atmosphere of fear or tension in the household can point to a deeper issue. While these patterns may not always be obvious at first, they can have a serious impact on both your well-being and the divorce process.
At Oliveri & Larsen, our Annapolis divorce lawyers are committed to guiding clients through challenging family law matters with professionalism, confidentiality, and compassion. If your marriage has become emotionally or psychologically damaging, we are here to help you navigate the legal system safely and confidently.
The Legal Impact of Abuse or Coercive Behavior During Divorce
In Maryland, the court considers the full circumstances of a marriage when making decisions about child custody, alimony, property division, and other critical issues. If there is a history of controlling or abusive behavior, it can influence the outcome in several important ways.
Custody and Visitation
Maryland courts prioritize the best interests of the child in custody determinations. If one parent has demonstrated a pattern of harmful or unstable behavior, the court may place restrictions on that parent’s custody or visitation rights. This could include supervised visits or a limited parenting schedule, especially if the court believes that the child’s emotional or physical well-being is at risk.
Your attorney can present evidence to support a safe and stable custody arrangement, which may include testimony, documentation, or third-party observations.
Alimony and Financial Independence
If a spouse has been financially dependent due to the other party’s control over household income, that dynamic can factor into alimony decisions. For example, if you were discouraged from working or had limited access to joint finances, the court may award spousal support to help you maintain financial stability post-divorce.
A knowledgeable divorce lawyer can help gather the necessary documentation to demonstrate the need for support and ensure your financial future is protected.
Division of Property and Assets
Maryland follows the principle of equitable distribution, which means marital property is divided fairly, not always equally. If one spouse withheld financial information, controlled access to money, or made significant decisions without mutual agreement, these actions may be relevant during property division.
An attorney can work with financial professionals, such as forensic accountants, to trace assets, evaluate income, and ensure a complete and accurate picture of the marital estate.
Temporary Relief and Protective Orders
During the divorce process, it’s possible to request temporary court orders that address immediate concerns, such as who stays in the home, who has temporary custody of the children, or how bills are paid while the case is pending. In some cases, protective orders may also be appropriate to maintain safety and establish legal boundaries between the parties.
Your divorce lawyer can help you petition the court for these orders quickly and effectively, ensuring that your rights are protected from the outset.
How a Divorce Lawyer Can Help You Move Forward
Going through a divorce in a high-conflict or controlling relationship requires more than just filling out paperwork. You need legal guidance that accounts for your safety, your children’s well-being, and your long-term goals.
At Oliveri & Larsen, we take the time to understand your situation fully. Whether you need help securing fair custody arrangements, gaining financial independence, or protecting your personal safety, we are here to serve as both your legal advocate and your strategic advisor.
We know how emotionally taxing these situations can be, and we are committed to providing respectful, responsive, and results-driven representation at every stage of the process.
Talk to an Annapolis Divorce Lawyer at Oliveri & Larsen Today
If you are considering divorce and need legal guidance in a challenging situation, the Annapolis divorce lawyers at Oliveri & Larsen are here to help. Call us at 410-295-3000 or contact us online for a consultation. Located in Annapolis, Maryland, we serve clients in Ocean City, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Calvert County, Harford County, Howard County, Queen Anne’s County, St. Mary’s County, Worcester County, Kent County, and the upper and lower Eastern Shores of Maryland.