Updated November 2025 – If you and your spouse agree on all terms of your divorce in Maryland, a mutual consent divorce is often the fastest, least expensive, and least stressful way to end your marriage. As a Maryland family law attorney with over twelve years of experience drafting and filing mutual consent divorces, I’ve helped hundreds of couples use the correct Maryland mutual consent divorce forms and marital settlement agreements to finalize their cases without ever stepping foot in court for a contested hearing.
In this comprehensive guide, I’m providing you with a completely free, attorney-drafted Maryland mutual consent divorce agreement sample that you can download, customize, and file today. I’ll walk you through every required form, explain the current Maryland law (including post-2023 changes), and show you exactly how to avoid the most common mistakes that cause judges to reject filings.
Maryland became one of the first states to offer true “no-fault” mutual consent divorce on October 1, 2015, with major improvements effective October 1, 2023 (Md. Code, Family Law § 7-103(a)(8)). Today, if you and your spouse:
…then neither of you needs to appear in court for a hearing in most counties (including Baltimore, Montgomery, Prince George’s, Anne Arundel, and Howard). You simply submit the Maryland mutual consent divorce form (Complaint + Agreement + Joint Request to Schedule Uncontested Hearing or Waive Appearance) and the judge signs the Judgment of Absolute Divorce – often within 30-60 days.
| Form Name | Required? | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Complaint for Absolute Divorce (CC-DR-020) | Yes | marylandcourts.gov |
| Marital Settlement Agreement (your own or template) | Yes | Free download below |
| Joint Request for Uncontested Hearing / Waiver of Appearance (CC-DR-116) | Usually Yes | marylandcourts.gov |
| Financial Statement (Short Form CC-DR-030 or Long Form CC-DR-031) | Only if alimony or attorney fees requested | marylandcourts.gov |
| Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (DR-034/035) – if minor children | Yes if minor children | marylandcourts.gov |
| Answer of Defendant (CC-DR-050) | Recommended (speeds process) | marylandcourts.gov |
This 18-page template includes every clause I use in actual client files:
At least one spouse must have lived in Maryland for six months (Fam. Law § 7-101). No 12-month separation is required for mutual consent.
Use the free template above. Both parties must sign BEFORE a notary and attach the notarized agreement to the Complaint.
Check box 8a or 8b for “Mutual Consent.” Attach the signed settlement agreement as Exhibit A.
Filing fees range $165–$215 depending on county (waivable if low-income).
The defendant spouse can file the Answer (CC-DR-050) admitting everything and waiving formal service.
Most counties now allow you to waive the uncontested hearing entirely if everything is in order.
Typical timeline: 30–90 days from filing.
In my practice, I see these issues daily:
Do we really not have to go to court at all?
In most counties in 2025 – yes, if your paperwork is perfect.
Can we file if we have minor children?
Yes, as long as you have a fully signed parenting plan and child support that meets or justifies deviation from guidelines.
Is alimony still possible in mutual consent?
Absolutely – just include the terms in your settlement agreement.
What if we change our mind after signing?
You can revoke consent in writing before the judge signs the final decree.
Important Disclaimer: This article and the free downloadable Maryland divorce settlement agreement template are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Laws change and every case is unique. Always consult a licensed Maryland family law attorney before filing. Neither the author nor this website will be responsible for any errors, delays, or outcomes related to the use of these materials.
Ready to move forward? Download the free Maryland mutual consent divorce agreement sample now and take the first step toward your new beginning.
Download Free Maryland Marital Settlement Agreement Template (2025)