LEGAL SEPARATION ATTORNEYS
IN CALIFORNIA
Going through a legal separation can be a complicated and emotional ordeal, and the guidance of a knowledgeable attorney can make a considerable impact. If you are searching for a legal separation attorney in California, you are in the appropriate place. The California lawyers at Modern Family Law have expertise in legal separation and are prepared to offer legal counsel and advocacy to couples who are considering a separation.
The attorneys at Modern Family Law are equipped to assist you in navigating the legal system and bargaining the provisions of your separation agreement to safeguard your interests and secure an equitable resolution. Our lawyers are well-informed about the significant differences between a legal separation and a divorce, and they are ready to guide you through the process. Below, you can find information about legal separation in California, such as:
Our experienced California separation attorneys want to help you take control of your future. They are committed to leading you through the legal separation process and ensuring the safeguarding of your rights and interests. Regardless of whether you are confronting intricate financial matters, child custody issues, or other obstacles, our lawyers are equipped to aid you in achieving a just and equitable resolution that enables you to progress forward in your life.
WHAT IS A LEGAL SEPARATION
IN CALIFORNIA?
Legal separation in California is a formal legal procedure that enables a married couple to establish a separation agreement addressing concerns related to the division of property, spousal support, child custody, and child support. Although the process of legal separation resembles divorce, the couple remains married in the eyes of the law and cannot marry anyone else unless they obtain a divorce.
A California legal separation can be initiated by filing a petition for legal separation with the Superior Court in the county where either spouse resides. The petition must state the grounds for the legal separation, which are generally irreconcilable differences or incurable insanity. The filing spouse must also serve the other spouse with a copy of the petition and a summons, which requires the other spouse to respond within a specific timeframe.
The responding spouse can either agree to the terms of the legal separation or contest them. If the parties agree to the terms of the legal separation, they can submit a written agreement to the court for approval. If they cannot reach an agreement, the court will hold a hearing and make a decision on the contested issues.
Legal separation is not a requirement for divorce in California. However, legal separation can be a useful alternative for couples who are not yet ready for a divorce but want to live apart and formalize the terms of their separation. Legal separation can also be helpful for couples who have religious or personal objections to divorce but still want to address issues such as property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support. It is important to consult with an experienced family law attorney to determine which option is best for your particular situation.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
A LEGAL SEPARATION AND A DIVORCE?
While legal separation and divorce share many similarities in California, they are distinct legal processes that address the division of assets and debts, spousal support, and parenting time, if applicable. Despite these commonalities, there are several key differences between the two.
1. Finality: A divorce ends the marriage, while a legal separation does not. In a legal separation, the couple remains legally married but lives apart and divides their assets and debts, arranges for spousal support, and establishes a parenting plan.
2. Time & Expense: A legal separation can take less time and be less expensive than a divorce since it doesn’t require the same extensive legal process as a divorce.
3. Health Insurance: Another significant difference is that in a legal separation, the couple can remain on the same health insurance plan if that is available, but in a divorce, they will need to find separate coverage.
legal separation and divorce are separate legal processes that fulfill different objectives. Although there are similarities between the two, legal separation enables a couple to separate while maintaining their legal marital status, while divorce officially terminates the marriage.
” The court may not render a judgment of the legal separation of the parties without the consent of both parties unless one party has not made a general appearance and the petition is one for legal separation.“
WHY DO SOME COUPLES CHOOSE
LEGAL SEPARATION INSTEAD OF DIVORCE?
Deciding whether to pursue divorce or legal separation can be a complex and nuanced decision. Some couples may prefer legal separation as it offers a temporary separation from the relationship, leaving open the possibility of reconciliation, whereas divorce may seem too definitive. Alternatively, couples with religious or moral objections to divorce may choose legal separation as an alternative.
Aside from the aforementioned reasons, legal separation may also be suitable for other circumstances, such as gradually transitioning to divorce, retaining a spouse's medical insurance, avoiding social stigmatization associated with divorce, preserving certain military or employment-related benefits that would be lost in a divorce, or taking advantage of federal tax benefits for married couples. If you are uncertain whether legal separation is the appropriate option for you, it is recommended that you consult with a legal expert to determine the best course of action based on your unique circumstances.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY ABOUT OUR
EXPERIENCED LEGAL SEPARATION LAWYERS IN CALIFORNIA
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT
LEGAL SEPARATION IN CALIFORNIA
Is A Legal Separation The Same As A Trial Separation?
No, a legal separation is a formal legal process in which a court issues a judgment that outlines the terms of the separation, while a trial separation is an informal arrangement in which a couple decides to live separately for a period of time without formalizing the terms of the separation. During a trial separation, the couple typically agrees on a time frame for the separation, and one or both partners may move out of the shared residence. The purpose of a trial separation is often to give the couple space to work on their issues and decide whether they want to continue the marriage or pursue a divorce.
Can I Remarry If I Am Legally Separated In California?
No, legal separation in California does not terminate the marriage, so neither spouse can remarry until they obtain a divorce.
Can I Change My Legal Separation To A Divorce In California?
Yes, you can convert a legal separation to a divorce in California by filing a request with the court. The process is similar to filing for divorce, but the court will take into account the terms of the separation agreement when making decisions about property division, spousal support, and other issues.
CONTACT US
One of our compassionate team members will review your information and will reach out to you as soon as possible during our regular business hours:
Monday – Friday: 8 AM – 5 PM
Saturday- Sunday: Closed
If you have contacted us during our regular business hours give us a call to speak with us now. If you have contacted us after hours or on the weekend you can expect us to reach out on the morning of our next available business day. Thank you for your interest!