Maryland Divorce ~ Residency
In order to start the divorce process you must file a complaint in the circuit court where your spouse lives. At the hearing or in your complaint you must meet the residency requirements for the ground you specify. Divorce laws apply only to the residents of a state and each state holds its own requirements. Grounds for voluntary separation without cohabitation has a residency requirement of one year in the state of Maryland. The law requires that you or your spouse has been a resident of Maryland for the time before and at the time you file your divorce. After you file you can move anywhere you would like.
You do not have to remain at the same address to fulfill your requirement of residency. You can move to different parts of the state in which you file. You should have all of your addresses prepared for your legal forms to prove your residency, especially where you lived during the separation.
Courts use your sworn statement as far as residency is concerned. Most courts will verify your residency. Cases have been dismissed because of improper residency information. It is very important that you have this information when filing.
The best way to establish residency is register to vote, get a divers license, a job, credit cards, utility bills, library cards, car registration, etc.
Maryland has counties that will specify where your divorce will take place. The divorce must be filed where either the plaintiff or defendant resides or is legally employed.
Source : How To Do Your Own Divorce In Maryland by Richard S. Granat (2004)