Considering Marriage Or Legal Separation – What You Need To Know

It is said that marriage is difficult, and for many couples, that can seem like an understatement. No matter how hard you may try, staying together ultimately may not be the best option and there is no other choice but to proceed with marriage or legal separation. If this is the position you find yourself in, there is no doubt you are filled with all kinds of emotions, with one of the most pressing being the stress the separation puts on each of you both mentally and physically.

So, before you get too far ahead of yourself, here are some things you’ll want to know about marriage or legal separation.

What is Marriage or Legal Separation?

The first thing to be clear on is what exactly the term marriage or legal separation means, since this is a legal term, not just a title. A legal separation is different than terminating marital status. Instead, the court will grant one or both parties the need for a legal separation.

In many cases, legal separation can be more complicated and just as stressful as a divorce is. You still need to figure out responsibilities and rights. If there are kids involved, then there is also custody to be discussed and agreed upon. Obviously, the easier both parties can communicate and come to an amicable agreement, the smoother this separation process will go.

Should You Hire a Lawyer?

There’s a good chance you are also questioning whether you need a lawyer or not. People are used to hiring on lawyers in a divorce proceeding, but a legal separation may not be as clear cut of a decision. In reality, a family law advisor can be an extremely beneficial tool for you to use. They will be able to guide you through the process, discuss outcomes and expectations, answer questions, and just take some of that stress off your shoulders.

This becomes even more important if you and your partner have a difficult time speaking with one another and coming to any sort of agreement. Having someone represent you means you can be taken out of the discussion.

Make Sure There Are Agreements on Everything

It’s also a good idea to go in expecting to need an agreement on everything. This means deciding such things as where each of you will live, what will happen with shared property, what will happen with shared bank accounts, what about shared bills, who will keep/look after any shared pets, the list goes on and on. The more you can cover and discuss, the less problems you will be setting yourself up for down the road.

Try to Resist the Urge to Argue

During this time, both parties will be stressed, which means arguments are more likely to happen. Unfortunately, these don’t tend to lead to a positive result, so it’s best to learn walk away and not get involved in these types of heated conversations.

Go Easy on Yourself

At the end of the day, a marriage separation is not going to be a pleasant or simple experience; it will be wrapped in all kinds of emotions. Remember to be kind to yourself during this period, and remind yourself that better days are ahead.