Legal Question in Family Law in Maryland

My wife and I are divorcing and we share nothing between each other but there�s one line on her filing that reads,

WHEREFORE,L the Plaintiff prays:

For such other relief as this court may seem just and proper

What does this line mean and how does it affect me.

Thank You!!!


Asked on 6/24/10, 9:30 am

3 Answers from Attorneys

Sean T. Morris Law Office of Sean T. Morris

That is just standard language that people often put at the end of court filings. It pretty much means "if the court wants to give me something else, I'll take it." Don't concern yourself too much with it.

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Answered on 6/24/10, 12:38 pm
Paula McGill Attorney at Law

It's a catch-all phrase. To adequately protect yourself, you should consult with an attorney about your assets, liabilities, and the divorce petition. After the consultation, if you don't want to hire an attorney, it's your right. However, you should learn as much as posssible about the potential asset and liability division before it's too late.

Also licensed and practicing in Maryland.

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Answered on 6/24/10, 3:31 pm

The language is, for lack of a better description, standard boilerplate. Essentially, it allows the court to grant relief consistent with the pleadings and other requested relief. The good news from your perspective is that there is a Maryland case (Terry v. Terry) holding that the language in your wife's filing is NOT a basis to award her something that she didn't ask for, and about which you did not have knowledge. For example, if the only relief she requests is "give me child support" and she includes language for "such other relief," the court cannot give her alimony, or attorneys fees, or a monetary award (property settlement), etc. They can only grant relief that you had reasonable knowledge would be at issue.

If you have additional questions about this or other aspects of your case, you should consult with counsel.

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Answered on 6/25/10, 5:33 am


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