Maryland Divorce ~ Representing Yourself In Divorce Court
In Divorce court, the judge must remain the neutral and impartial decision maker. The judge has the responsibility to guarantee a fair trial by applying the rules and conditions of divorce court. United States law is based on an adversarial system with a party on one side of the argument and the other party on the opposing side. Maryland courts require that people representing themselves must meet the same criteria given to attorneys.
Maryland divorce courts are bound by certain rules and expect that you follow those rules when representing yourself. It is your responsibility to prepare and handle your divorce case. Maryland divorce court judges are responsible to understand your side, but hear the other side as well.
Maryland divorce court judges do not give slack in allowing lack of information or skill on your behalf. If you decide to represent yourself, the Maryland divorce court judge expects that you know what you are trying to prove, meaning the law and type of solution. There are specific rules on preparation of Maryland divorce court papers, serving your spouse, what evidence is permissible in court as well as how and what you may appeal.
Representing yourself in court is an enormous task. Study all Maryland state laws and understand how Maryland divorce court works. It is better to be fully prepared rather than have unexpected surprises.