Separation

Divorce Alternatives: Legal Separation

Legal separation or a Separate Maintenance Action is a possible alternative to divorce.  A separation is very similar to a divorce in Michigan but at the end of the process, you are still married.  If you don’t think you are ready for a divorce but still want to separate for some time, you may want to consider a legal separation. Although some states require couples to be legally separated before seeking a divorce, Michigan does not have that requirement.

What Is the Difference Between Divorce and a Judgement of Separate Maintenance?

A Judgment of Separate Maintenance is similar to a divorce, but it does not legally dissolve your marriage. In a separation, like in a divorce, the parties will divide all assets and debts. They will determine spousal and child support and designate child custody and establish parenting time. There are many reasons parties choose a legal separation over a divorce.  A couple may still need to remain married for insurance reasons or religious reasons.  With a Judgment of Separate Maintenance, couples cannot marry others. If after a period of legal separation in Michigan, the couple decides to divorce, they must start over filing for divorce but their separation plan will provide a good basis for a divorce settlement. For more information, check out our related blog: After Infidelity, Separation Rather than Divorce

Whatever your reason, if you are interested in a legal separation, contact Kathryn Wayne-Spindler & Associates at 248-676-1000. Contact us to schedule a consultation with Kathryn Wayne-Spindler & Associates to discuss whether divorce, legal separation or annulment are right for you.

Kathryn Wayne-Spindler & Associates have many satisfied clients throughout the five counties of Southeastern Michigan – Oakland, Washtenaw, Wayne, Genesee, and Livingston. The Michigan Family Law Attorneys of Kathryn Wayne-Spindler & Associates have one simple objective: to handle our clients’ legal worries so they can concentrate on life and family. Contact Kathryn Wayne-Spindler & Associates today to learn more about our experience and success at 248-676-1000. We are conveniently located in Milford, Michigan. We help clients throughout Milford; Highland; Hartland; White Lake; Commerce; Waterford; West Bloomfield; Walled Lake; South Lyon; New Hudson; Wixom; Linden; Holly; Fenton; Grand Blanc; Flint and many more local communities.

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