How Does Adultery Affect Maryland Divorce?

Separation and divorce matters can be affected by adultery in many ways. Adultery is hurtful to a spouse that has been cheated on and may cause a lack of trust, a breakdown in communication, and resentments that can be hard to overcome. Frequently, a spouse that is involved in an extramarital affair did not plan for the infidelity and may experience grief, guilt, and also resentments. In either case, at the Law Office of Shelly M. Ingram, our attorneys and mediators have a goal to listen to you and help you to understand the choices you have moving forward.

Is adultery the cause of a failed marriage or the symptom of a marriage that is already failed? In Maryland, to prove adultery you need to show that your spouse has had the opportunity and inclination to have sex with someone else, you don’t need to show that actual intercourse has occurred.

The Cheater

If you are a spouse that cheated, we understand that you are going to have many questions. Should you admit to the adultery or deny it? How will the adultery affect child custody and child support? Will I have to pay more financially? Each case is different. Our attorneys will help you find answers to these and other difficult questions. Even if you are uncertain whether or not you want your marriage to end, our attorneys can help you understand your legal options and help you decide the best way to protect your interests as you move forward.

The Cheated

If you are the spouse that was cheated on, you may wonder if you have enough proof. Do you need to confront your spouse? Do you need to hire a private investigator? Your questions may be similar to a cheating spouse – will the adultery affect your legal rights? What happens if you divorce? What happens if you forgive your spouse and decide to continue in the marriage? How do you protect your interests? You may be uncertain how you would like to proceed, but want to understand more about your legal rights.

What's Next?

Our goal is to educate you about the law as it applies to your specific circumstances and help you make an informed decision about the best way to proceed – be it separation or reconciliation.

We understand that no two clients and no two circumstances are the same. You are not required to divorce if you consult with an attorney. You can consult with an attorney to be educated about the law and the best way to protect your legal rights when adultery is an issue in your relationship. Our attorneys offer in-person and virtual consultations using Zoom, Skype, Facetime, and telephone. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys if you have additional questions or would like to discuss options for your future.