Not Ready For Divorce? Try A Separation Agreement

If you are not quite ready for a divorce, maybe you should first try a separation agreement. A couple contemplating divorce in New Jersey may want to take some time apart from each other to re-evaluate their feelings or weigh the future implications that a divorce may have on their lives. Divorce proceedings can become extremely complicated and difficult processes. While a conflict situation may seem to be headed in the direction of a divorce, it is very common that a couple may not be quite ready to make the life-changing, and potentially expensive decision to begin the divorce proceedings, on impulse. For people in this situation, there is an option. A legal separation can be bound by a separation agreement. Separation agreements afford couples who are contemplating a divorce with the opportunity to suspend, but not completely end their marriage. Therefore, the couple can take the time that they need to decide what is best for them in the future and how they will move forward. One of the primary benefits of a separation agreement is that it can function much like a contract or a pre- or post-nuptial agreement in that it can provide legal protections for each of the parties while they seek options such a marriage counseling, mediation or other attempts to reach a mutual reconciliation. The separation agreement is a document that both parties willingly and voluntarily enter into that can detail how particular issues between them are handled during the course of their separation period. Issues that can be addressed in a separation agreement include important life issues and considerations such as child custody and visitation rights, alimony and spousal support considerations, child support obligations, living arrangements, parenting time, and almost any other pending area of conflict between the parties. If the parties eventually decide to divorce, the separation agreement can act as a stepping stone or framework for the structuring of the impending divorce and the equitable distribution of assets. On the other hand, if the parents decide that after their separation period they want to try to reconcile, they can receive solace from the fact that while they were legally separated their interests and assets were legally protected. If you and your spouse or civil union partner wish to try reconciling your issues by way of temporary separation before tossing away the time you have together and the memories that go along with it, you should consult with an experienced family law attorney regarding a separation agreement to protect your rights and interests during any trial separations. For more information about Divorce, Custody & Visitation, Child Support, Alimony/Spousal Support, Mediation, Dissolution, Parting Time, Mediation or other Family Law matters in New Jersey visit www.NJCivilUnionLaw.com and HeatherDarlingLawyer.com. This blog is for informational purposes and in no way intended to replace the advice of an attorney.