You’re in the process of moving forward with your Maryland uncontested divorce when suddenly, that court date marked in red on your calendar comes up quicker than expected. While the uncontested divorce hearing itself is fairly simple, navigating the virtual hearing process may feel unfamiliar. With this in mind, here are a few tips and things to expect at your upcoming virtual Maryland uncontested divorce hearing:
1. Your Hearing Will Be Held Virtually
Unlike in the past when you had to attend court in person, uncontested divorce hearings in Maryland are now conducted via video conferencing. The Circuit Court in the county where the Complaint for Absolute Divorce was filed will provide the virtual hearing link, which can be found in your Hearing Notice.
2. Prepare for Your Virtual Hearing
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Make sure you have a stable internet connection and a quiet, distraction-free space.
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Test your device and the video conferencing platform ahead of time to avoid technical difficulties.
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Plan to log in 10 minutes before the scheduled hearing time to ensure everything is working properly.
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Your attorney will coordinate with you on how to communicate before and during the hearing, if needed.
3. What to Expect During the Virtual Hearing
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The hearing will take approximately 5-10 minutes, though you may need to wait for your case to be called.
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Your attorney, or the Family Law Magistrate, will ask you questions related to your Complaint for Absolute Divorce (e.g., marriage details, children’s names and birthdates, date of separation, and terms of any agreements).
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Dress appropriately, as if you were attending court in person, and keep your camera on throughout the hearing.
4. The Magistrate’s Role & Finalizing Your Divorce
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The Family Law Magistrate does not have the authority of a Judge but will prepare a Written Report and Recommendation for the Judge to review.
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Unless waived, there is a 10-day period for either party to file exceptions (appeal) to the Magistrate’s recommendation.
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After the 10-day period, the Judgment of Absolute Divorce will be signed by a Judge and officially stamped by the court.
5. What Happens After the Hearing
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If both spouses attend the hearing and agree, you may choose to waive the 10-day exceptions period for a faster finalization.
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Once the Judgment of Absolute Divorce is signed and stamped, the final divorce date is set.
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A gold-sealed Judgment of Absolute Divorce will be sent to your attorney’s office and then forwarded to you.
6. Additional Steps After Your Divorce is Finalized
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If restoring a maiden/former name, you will need the sealed Judgment to update your records with Social Security and the MVA.
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If dividing retirement benefits, a QDRO or other Retirement Order must be submitted to the court and processed by the plan administrator.
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If receiving child support through the Office of Child Support Enforcement, you must submit a certified copy of your Judgment to initiate payments.
You will typically receive your final stamped Judgment of Absolute Divorce within two to three weeks from the conclusion of your virtual hearing.
At Jacobson Family Law, we are committed to Keeping the Drama Out of Divorce by helping our clients navigate the uncontested divorce process as smoothly as possible. If you have questions about your virtual hearing or are interested in pursuing an uncontested divorce in Maryland, contact us today at 443-741-1147 or Schedule a Consultation.
