By taking some time apart from your spouse before you file for divorce, you can ensure that divorce is the right option for you and feel confident moving forward in the divorce process . Separation can allow both spouses to reconnect with hobbies or other aspects of life they felt were missing during their marriage.

Is it better to separate or divorce?

While a divorce legally dissolves the marriage, a legal separation is a court order that mandates the rights and duties of the couple while they are still married but living apart. However, a legal separation may offer the same protection as a divorce and in some cases works out better.

How long should you separate Before a divorce?

Separation to Get a Divorce In some states, a separation is required before you can get a divorce under certain grounds. Often a waiting period of six months or one year during which you live separate and apart is necessary before you can get a divorce.

Why do some couples choose to do separation first instead of going right to a divorce?

People choose legal separation instead of divorce because of religious beliefs, a desire to keep the family together legally for the sake of children, the need for one spouse to keep the health insurance benefits that would be lost with a divorce, or simple aversion to divorcing despite the desire to live separate