There is strength in terminating a relationship when it isn’t working. While many individuals quickly file for divorce, couples should think about other options. Another means of distancing oneself from another is through legal separation. Choosing to go ahead with a legal separation is a big decision with many benefits. Before deciding on it, you should be aware of some disadvantages of legal separation. Continue reading to find out the meaning of legal separation and how it is operated.
What Is Legal Separation?
Through the legal procedure of legal separation, two married people can live apart and carry on as though they were single. When you want to terminate your marriage but aren’t quite ready to file for divorce, this can be useful. To get a legal separation, you still need to go to court and follow the judge’s decision, just like you would for a divorce. Legal separation, however, frequently proceeds considerably more rapidly.
In rare circumstances, it may also be advantageous. This includes letting married couples continue to get their health benefits and trying to sort out alimony or child custody disputes without going through with a formal divorce. Moreover, it maintains the status of the marriage, unlike divorce. Couples can reconcile without having to go through the full procedure again because it can be overturned at any time.
It is crucial to remember that although the outcomes of legal separation and divorce are comparable, they are not the same. Your marriage does not end with a legal separation. It lets you and your partner live apart while you sort out the specifics of how your assets, debts, and other matters will be handled once the separation time is over.
How Are Trial Separations Operated?
The parties to a trial separation consent to being apart for a certain amount of time. A trial separation is not the same as a legal separation because there is no court involvement or paperwork needed.
A trial separation often results in one partner moving out completely. You and your spouse can stay in the same house, with one spouse taking the extra bedroom, if you are unable to afford to buy a second residence. You and your spouse will decide on a timeframe for your separation, but you will continue to be married legally throughout that time.
The goal of a trial separation is not to last forever. It’s merely a chance for both parties to see whether they can resolve their differences without calling it quits on their marriage.
How is a Divorce That Is Lawful Handled?
In Tennessee, consent from both spouses is needed for a legal separation by agreement, but the process is quite similar to that of a divorce. After one spouse files a formal separation complaint, the other spouse may file a countersuit for divorce at any time. One spouse must have resided in Tennessee for six months or more before filing the petition for legal separation. A formal explanation (grounds) for your separation must be stated in the petition.
There will be a required waiting period after you file the documentation before the judge may decide your case. For couples without minor children, the waiting period is 60 days; for parents of minor children, it is 90 days.
You should draft your separation agreement with the assistance of an experienced attorney during the waiting period. The conditions of your formal separation are outlined in this agreement, which is a binding legal document. The following issues ought to be covered in the agreement:
- Division of debts and assets acquired during marriage.
- A parenting schedule that specifies decision-making duties and parenting time.
- Plans for child support.
- If applicable, spousal support (alimony).
Disadvantages of Legal Separation
For couples who want to work through their issues without officially calling it quits on their marriage, a legal separation is a possibility. Although it is not a formal divorce, it can nonetheless offer many of the same rights, including maintenance and custody of children. The primary benefit of pursuing a formal separation is that it allows you to reflect on your future goals. It also allows you to take a breather before committing to major decisions like marriage or divorce.
It has drawbacks, even though for certain couples it can be beneficial. The following are a few drawbacks of a formal separation:
Disadvantages of Legal Separation: Even More Difficult Than Divorce
It’s crucial to realize that your decision to file for legal separation has implications beyond your union with your spouse. A formal separation can have a lasting impact on your life because it entails several complex financial and legal issues.
There are financial ramifications to consider in addition to the emotional factors when choosing to separate. When a couple separates, they usually keep splitting bills for things like groceries and rent. They also need to decide how to split their assets and properties if they decide to move out.
You must abide by all court regulations and submit the necessary documentation to obtain a legal separation. Due to their complexity and confusion, these cases will require the assistance of an attorney.
Legally Separated People Are Not Eligible to Remarry.
The fact that a formal separation does not dissolve your marriage is another drawback. Legal separation prevents you from getting married again. As a result, even if you live apart and regard yourselves as divorced, you and your partner must continue to be legally married.
This could be a problem if one partner wants to start a new relationship or take advantage of certain financial benefits that are exclusive to single people. Couples who are legally separated but subject to some of the same limitations as married couples may find this frustrating and confusing.
Pre-divorce Legal Separation Could Be More Expensive.
Except for names, legal separation and divorce are identical. To make sure everything is done correctly and that your spouse does not receive any more benefits than they should, you will have to pay your lawyer. The cost of a legal separation may vary greatly based on your location and the kind of assistance your attorney needs to provide.
You will have to pay new legal fees and start again if you decide to file for divorce later on. To make sure that a legal separation is the best course of action for you, it is crucial to weigh all the possible expenses and repercussions before making your decision.
FAQs
Can Two People Live Together Even Though They Are Apart?
Some divorced couples, owing to financial limitations, nevertheless reside under one roof. These couples have decided to part ways and have started the process of settling their finances. They decide to live together until the money is released when they sell or refinance the family house.
Is Splitting up a Smart Idea?
While divorce is permanent, separation can offer both parties greater time and space to reflect on their aspirations. It offers everyone time to think things through and heal while also creating a buffer against more confrontation. A formal separation can preserve your partnership while allowing you to experience independence.
Can a Marriage Get Stronger After a Separation?
First, a break could give each person the opportunity to lower their anxiety levels and transition from emotionally charged to logical decision-making. Spending time alone together could facilitate introspection on each partner’s shortcomings in the marriage and provide opportunities for improvement.
Disadvantages of Legal Separation: Bottom Line
It’s critical to understand the drawbacks of a formal separation if you’re thinking about getting one. Divorce not only takes away some of your advantages, but it may also have long-term negative effects on your finances and social standing.
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