Morris County Legal Separation Attorney
Explore Your Options for a Happier Future
While many people believe that marriage is the only way to legally commit to a partner, other options do exist. A legal separation is an option for people who want to end their marriage but do not want to get a divorce.
At Riordan Family Law, we help clients pursue legal separation and divorce options. We understand that these decisions can be difficult and that they can have a significant impact on a person's life. We are committed to guiding you through the legal process and helping you pursue the best possible outcome for your situation.
How Do I Get a Legal Separation?
There is no specific form that must be filled out or document that must be filed in order to pursue a legal separation. However, it is important to establish the terms of your legal separation in some way. This can be done in the form of a document that details your plans for property division, support, and so on, or it can be done verbally with your partner.
It is important to note that a verbal agreement is much less likely to be upheld in court if the parties' situations change (e.g., one party stops working or makes a significant increase in income).
What Are the Benefits of Legal Separation?
There are a number of benefits to legally separating from your partner, including:
- It allows you to pursue separate lives while still sharing a household.
- It allows you to continue to share expenses and financial obligations.
- It allows a person to continue to receive healthcare benefits through their partner's insurance.
- It allows a person to continue to pursue professional goals (e.g., going back to school) without worrying about the impact on their partner.
Many people also choose legal separation as a step towards divorce, allowing them to evaluate the viability of their relationship before making a final decision.
