Should You File For Legal Separation or Divorce In Los Angeles?

At the Land Legal Group, our experienced divorce attorneys in Los Angeles, California understand that any decision that disrupts your family dynamic is an important one. When it comes to marital problems, couples have more than just the option to divorce, which can be a very intimidating decision to make. Legal separation may provide the relief you and your spouse need to go your separate ways, without making the final decision to become divorced right away.

Your marital status is a very personal decision, and our Los Angeles divorce attorneys provide the information you need to pursue the best outcome available for your case.

What Is The Difference Between Divorce & Legal Separation In Los Angeles?

When couples in Los Angeles decide to end their marriage through divorce, several life and family matters will be determined during the proceedings.

The primary components of divorce settlements include the:

• Final termination of the couple’s marital status
• Division of shared property
• Spousal support
• Child custody and visitation arrangements, when applicable
• Child support, when applicable

Legal separation in Los Angeles County covers all the same things like a divorce, except for the termination of the couple’s marital status.

Another main difference between legal separation and divorce in Los Angeles is how long each process takes to become final. Once the divorce petition is filed and served to the other spouse, both parties will have to wait at least six months for the divorce to be finalized. Legal separations require both parties to consent and are final immediately when approved and signed by the judge.

Why Do Couples Choose Legal Separations Over Divorces In Los Angeles?

When a legal separation is finalized, the spouses are considered as though they are divorced. Unlike divorced couples, however, those who are legally separated cannot become remarried — because he or she is still legally married to the spouse they are legally separated from.

Couples may choose legal separation for many reasons, each of which is personal to their life and family, and can include:

• Refusing to divorce for moral or religious reasons
• Collecting financial retirement or social security benefits
• Remaining on the other spouse’s healthcare and/or insurance plans
• Maintaining tax or estate planning benefits

Finally, some couples believe there may be a chance to reconcile after some time apart and are not willing to divorce before they establish exactly what they want moving forward.

Legal separation is a complex area of family law that can be easily navigated with the help of an experienced Los Angeles divorce attorney.

At the Land Legal Group, we provide more than legal advice regarding your marriage, children, and support status, we provide full access to precise representation on financial and estate planning, so you understand the full scope of your life going forward — whether you choose a legal separation or divorce.

Contact our experienced family law attorneys in Los Angeles today by calling (310) 552-3500 to schedule a consultation and to learn more about your legal rights and family planning options. We are here to help bring clarity during a difficult time, so no detail of your case is overlooked. Call us now to learn more.