What Does it Mean?
Legal separation is the process through which a couple becomes separated without ending their marriage or civil union.
How Does it Work?
While a couple is legally separated, each person has the right to ask for:
Either spouse or partner can start a divorce or dissolve a civil union case while legally separated.
Things You Should Know
- In order to get a divorce or dissolve a civil union, you and your spouse or partner must have lived separately for at least six (6) months
- Temporary fees, evictions, or restraining orders can potentially be changed (modified) after they're ordered
- Once ordered, a property settlement CANNOT be modified
- If you have retirement savings, you will need to get a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) before you can separate
