Bethesda Divorce Lawyer

No one gets married to separate further down the road, but sometimes spouses decide that divorce is the best option. Going through a divorce costs a lot financially and emotionally, and trying to go through the process yourself can be difficult. Even couples who want to divorce amicably may encounter legal hurdles. Discover how Fait & DiLima, LLP and our Bethesda, MD divorce lawyer can assist!

Bethesda, MD Divorce Lawyer

Divorce can have many causes, ranging from infidelity to domestic abuse to spouses simply falling out of love. Regardless of the reason(s) behind the divorce, several considerations need to be made. Often, the first consideration is asset and property division. Meditation and negotiations are ideal, with both sides willing to compromise and meet in the middle. However, when one side is unwilling to do this, litigation might be necessary.

Any divorce can be stressful, but this stress becomes amplified if children are involved. Many couples decide not to divorce until their children move out of the house, even if they’re unhappy. While stopping the arguments can be beneficial for children in the long run, there is no denying the short-term impact of divorce on children.

It’s important to consider the impact that divorce can have on your children and how much you want your spouse to be involved in your children’s lives. Our Bethesda divorce lawyers understand this, which is why we’ll approach your case with compassion and empathy while still setting forth realistic expectations. We’ll work with you to determine the type of child custody that is best for your situation.

Most divorces are typically due to both spouses being unhappy, and even when issues like infidelity are involved, spouses eventually can find a way to compromise. Sometimes, though, a husband or wife needs a divorce due to safety concerns. Safety concerns can include domestic abuse, cruel treatment, or criminal activity. Such a situation requires extra consideration, especially if there are children involved, which our attorneys can help with.

Experience Matters In Divorce Cases

Divorce is serious, which is why you want our legal team in your corner. Whether you just want to make sure all your paperwork is in order or if you’re dealing with a contested divorce, our team can help.

• Our founding partner, Dorothy R. Fait, has handled several complex family law cases, and she is very experienced when it comes to mediation. She has won several awards during her legal career, including the Best Lawyers award in 2024.
• Our law firm has success working with vulnerable individuals in family law cases. We know how to help individuals and families get through emotionally draining situations.
• Our other managing partner, Marjorie G. DiLima, also has extensive mediation experience. Her area of expertise includes cases that involve alcohol and drug use and cases that involve narcissists prone to starting or dragging out conflicts.

Most couples get married to stay together for a lifetime, but when issues arise, sometimes separating becomes the best solution. Call Fait & DiLima, LLP to work with our Bethesda, MD divorce lawyer!

Types Of Divorce Cases We Handle

We represent clients in contested divorce matters where spouses cannot reach an agreement on key issues such as property division, child custody, or financial support. These cases often require presenting evidence, preparing witnesses, and building a clear legal position for trial. Our approach focuses on protecting our client’s rights while addressing all matters in compliance with Maryland law.

Uncontested Divorce Cases

In situations where both spouses agree on the terms of their divorce, we handle uncontested filings to help finalize the process efficiently. While these cases are generally less contentious, it is still important to address all legal requirements to avoid future disputes. A Bethesda divorce lawyer can help review settlement terms, prepare the necessary court filings, and confirm that the final agreement meets legal standards.

High Asset Divorce Cases

Divorces involving significant property, investments, or business interests require careful review of financial records. We work with financial professionals to analyze the value of assets and address division in a way that reflects our client’s interests. From retirement accounts to real estate holdings, we handle each asset category with the attention it requires.

Divorces Involving Child Custody Disputes

When a divorce involves children, custody arrangements can be among the most important and contested issues. We represent parents in developing parenting plans, determining physical and legal custody, and addressing visitation schedules. A Bethesda divorce lawyer can prepare and present the necessary information to help the court make decisions that align with the child’s best interests.

Divorces Involving Spousal Support

We handle divorce cases where spousal support, also known as alimony, is part of the discussion. Whether our client is seeking support or responding to a request, we review financial records, employment history, and other relevant factors to help establish a fair amount and duration. Our work covers both temporary and long-term arrangements.

Divorces With Complex Financial Considerations

Some divorce cases involve more than just dividing property and debts. They may include matters such as business ownership, deferred compensation, stock options, or multiple income sources. A Bethesda divorce lawyer can address the specific financial details in these situations to create a complete and enforceable agreement or court order.

Divorces Involving Allegations Of Misconduct

In certain cases, issues such as domestic violence, substance abuse, or financial misconduct may play a role in the proceedings. These matters can influence custody decisions, property division, and support arrangements. We work to gather documentation, witness statements, and other evidence to present a clear picture to the court.

At Fait & DiLima, LLP, we represent clients in a wide range of divorce matters, from straightforward filings to highly contested cases. Our work is grounded in a thorough understanding of family law and a commitment to protecting our clients’ interests. If you need assistance with a divorce case, we encourage you to contact us so we can discuss the approach that best fits your situation.

Common Reasons Of Divorce

Divorce is a deeply personal decision, but there are patterns we often see when couples choose to end their marriage. While every situation is unique, certain issues arise more frequently than others. Recognizing these common reasons can help couples better understand their own challenges and decide whether separation may be the best step forward. As Bethesda divorce lawyer professionals, we know how these factors can influence both the emotional and legal sides of ending a marriage.

1. Communication problems
   A breakdown in communication is one of the most common reasons couples decide to separate. When disagreements go unresolved or one partner feels unheard, resentment can build over time. Without healthy communication, small conflicts often turn into larger issues that strain the marriage.
2. Financial stress
   Money-related challenges are another leading cause of divorce. Disagreements about spending habits, debt, or financial priorities can create ongoing tension. For some couples, differences in financial goals or unexpected hardships make it difficult to maintain stability in the relationship.
3. Infidelity
   When one partner is unfaithful, the trust that forms the foundation of a marriage is often broken. Some couples may try to repair the relationship, but others find it too difficult to move forward after infidelity. This betrayal frequently leads to the decision to legally end the marriage. A Bethesda divorce lawyer can help with your divorce case.
4. Growing apart
   In some cases, couples simply grow in different directions. Changes in personal interests, values, or lifestyle preferences can cause partners to feel disconnected. Over time, the lack of shared goals or companionship may result in the decision to separate.
5. Substance abuse
   Alcohol or drug abuse can place a significant strain on a marriage. The effects may include financial problems, emotional distance, or unsafe environments. When one partner struggles with addiction and refuses help, it often leaves the other partner with limited options.
6. Domestic conflict
   Marriages that involve ongoing arguments, hostility, or emotional strain may become too difficult to continue. Conflict that escalates or becomes harmful can make the relationship unsafe or unmanageable, pushing couples toward divorce.
7. Differences in parenting styles
   Couples with children sometimes find that conflicting parenting styles create stress. Disagreements about discipline, education, or lifestyle decisions may lead to constant arguments. When these differences cannot be resolved, they can become a significant factor in divorce.
8. Unrealistic expectations
   Some marriages struggle because one or both partners entered with expectations that could not be met. When reality does not align with those expectations, disappointment and dissatisfaction can take a toll on the relationship.

At Fait & DiLima, LLP, we understand that each divorce case is shaped by personal circumstances. No matter the reason, separating from a spouse is rarely an easy decision. Having the right support and guidance throughout the process can make a difference in how smoothly the transition is handled.

If you are considering working with a Bethesda divorce lawyer, we invite you to connect with us. Together, we can review your situation, discuss your options, and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.