Sheila found herself facing a difficult decision – should she end her marriage or not? Things hadn’t been going well, but Sheila had always been an optimist. But this time, she needed more than platitudes and motivational messages. She needed a course of action that might help her move forward. Sheila could ask a California divorce attorney whether legal separation was the answer.
Three Ways to End a Marriage
Generally, there are three ways to end a marriage in California:
- Annulment,
- Divorce, and
- Legal Separation.
But each of these options is different. Annulment is not for everyone because it involves particular situations, like someone who is forced or coerced into a fraudulent marriage. Divorces completely end a marital relationship and might include dealing with issues like property division, child custody, and spousal support.
Legal separation might be the most mysterious of the three options. In fact, some states do not even recognize the concept of legally separating from a spouse. California, however, does allow couples to get a legal separation. Before taking this step, it’s crucial that you talk to a California divorce attorney to make sure this is the right step to make. Legal separation is not for everyone.
What Legal Separation Can and Cannot Do
It’s crucial to understand how this legal process can help you. It’s also crucial to understand situations it will not resolve.
Marital status is the first issue. A legal separation does not end your marriage but just sort of puts it on hold. You will still be married to your spouse. This means that you cannot marry anyone else. Your marital status might affect other legal situations, so make sure you discuss this with your divorce attorney before proceeding. For example, you might still want to file federal taxes as a married couple without having to live with each other.
Some people want to divorce but cannot meet California’s residency requirements. Before filing, you must have lived in California for at least the past six months. You also must live in the county where you want to file for at least three months before filing. If you cannot qualify for divorce, a legal separation can help until you are eligible.
In California, your spouse does not have to agree to the divorce. However, the same is not true for legal separations. If your spouse will not agree to separate, you might have to move forward with a divorce.
Finally, the decision to file for divorce is difficult. Becoming legally separated gives people time to decide whether they should file for divorce. It may also give you time to try out being on your own, away from your spouse. Some people may discover their marital problems were temporary and reunite with their spouse. Others may find that divorce provides the fresh start that they need.
Find Out if Legal Separation Is the Answer for You
The attorneys at The Law Offices of Judy L. Burger are well-versed in divorce and the dissolution of registered domestic partnerships. Judy Burger is a California Certified Family Law Specialist and founder of the Law Offices of Judy L. Burger. Please call our offices at 415-293-8314 to set up an appointment with one of our attorneys. We assist clients along the Northern to Southern California Coast.