Legal Separation

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There are certain scenarios where a married couple may not wish to divorce but would still like to live separate and apart. Religious beliefs, personal preference or financial concerns may influence a couple's desire to separate without formally terminating the bond of matrimony through a divorce or dissolution. Legal separation may provide a married couple with the means to do so.

Separation proceedings and laws will vary from state to state, but spouses will typically be able to work out legally enforceable arrangements or court orders regarding custody, support and property as in a divorce without actually ending the marriage. They will remain married in the eyes of the law (and will therefore not be able to remarry) but will be able to live separate lives. Separation may also apply to domestic partnerships.