Self-representation in divorce is on the rise throughout Maryland, and nationwide.  In Maryland the courts and several nonprofit legal services agencies offer help to do-it-yourselfers, also know as “pro se” (pronounced “pro say”) litigants.

The Women’s Law Center publishes an informative guide on Legal Rights of Marriage & Divorce in Maryland. Available in Spanish.

This section of the Library is a guide to help you decide if you are likely to be successful in representing yourself.  It also offers legal information to help you make good decisions and to be realistic about your divorce case.

Take a few minutes to walk through the following steps and easy to use quizzes.  

If you do decide to do your own divorce, there are a number of programs to help you represent yourself.  No matter which path you choose, see Frequently Asked Questions about divorce for more information about the legal issues and the section on Addressing Your Whole Legal Problem for advice from the court, tips on transportation and other resources.  

If you plan to hire an attorney, the information here will help you to work better with your attorney.  It is your life and your case.  Knowledge about your case will empower you to guide your attorney. (Need help finding a lawyer in Maryland?).  Can my spouse's attorney offer me any help?

Are You and Your Case Right for Self-Representation?

Legally, divorces range from the simple to the very complex. In some cases you may find that the best solution is a combination of do-it-yourself (“pro se”) and expert help from an attorney. Use the following checklists and quizzes to help you decide if you need attorney help with some or all of your divorce.