Trial Separation

A trial separation is typically initiated by a married couple that is trying to decide whether or not to divorce. A couple that is experiencing marriage problems can separate on a temporary basis in order to take a break from marital conflict and spend time considering if they need to live apart permanently. Separation is not usually... more »

In most states, when one partner establishes a residence independent from his or her spouse, the couple is considered separated. The rules governing marital separations are established by individual jurisdictions, so the requirements for legal filings, definitions of residence and effects of separation are contingent on the state... more »

Legal separation is not just one spouse moving out of the marriage home. It involves the authority of the court behind a plan for how the partners will divide some or all of their assets, and any obligation on the part of one spouse to make payments in support of the other. A separate maintenance agreement is the document that sets... more »

Anyone can refuse to sign divorce papers, but this will only delay the inevitable. Divorce papers might be refused because someone does not agree with the stipulations of the agreement. If compromises are made, the agreement can be revised, resulting in both parties signing the papers. However, if someone does not sign the papers... more »

You just got in a huge fight with your spouse and you feel you've had it with him. You want out of the relationship and are considering divorce. But there is another option. Instead of immediately jumping into the murky waters of divorce, you and your spouse might consider a trial separation. more »