Separation A Precursor to Divorce
Separation – A Precursor to Divorce
Before a couple seeks divorce, separation is the usual precursor. There are a number of things couples need to do before seeking a divorce settlement. From finding the right attorney to getting your finances in order, a number of divorces have long periods of separation before they are finalized.
In order to be allowed to divorce a spouse, most states require a separation first. In many states, you have to be separated from your spouse for a particular amount of time before you can start a divorce proceeding. This means that you have to actually be living in separate places, not just sleeping in different beds within the same dwelling.
Most of the time separation is voluntary, although desertion does occur. When a spouse leaves with no intent to return to the relationship, it is referred to as desertion. When a spouse forces the other spouse to leave, like in cases of abuse, it is known as constructive desertion. Since, in this case, leaving is a necessity for the safety of all involved, the court will not accuse you of desertion.
Of all the proceedings that occur during a divorce, separation is usually the beginning. Separation is intended to give both spouses the opportunity to divide up personal property and figure out who will live in the marital residence. When children are involved in a divorce settlement, the separation period is when parents choose where the children will live. It can also be a time when parents discuss custody issues such as whether or not joint physical custody is a possibility. Other things can be settled during the separation period as well. Spouses need to choose between vehicles, pets, furniture, or even electronics. When the separation period is over between two people and no plans of reconciliation are possible, then both spouses need to begin consulting with their attorneys.
During the separation time before divorce you can get your personal finances in order. This is very important because, if your ex-spouse is unable to make payments on anything in the future, it will prevent creditors from coming after you. You may have to give your attorney a complete account of your finances, including all liabilities and assets. You should also tell your spouse that you are canceling all joint credit card accounts, opening new ones that are only in your name.
You can have any stocks you own reissued in your own name as well. If you both used the same broker for your accounts, it is wise for you to look for a new one. You will need to make changes to your will or trust in order to remove references to your spouse. Write down all the changes, make copies of any documents, and record them into a file for the divorce settlement.
When a couple seeks a divorce, separation requires them to begin the process of dividing up their lives as husband and wife. It can be difficult to figure out who will take particular pieces of property or who will reside in the marital residence. What can be more harrowing is involving children in the process of custody and visitation. No matter how one looks at the matter, separation can be as daunting a task as the entire divorce process.
Charles Sellestor has counseled many couples who believe divorce is the only answer. Before finding Sacramento divorce attorney, he recommends a time of separation to try to work out any issues. While the couples still need to look for a QDRO like Keegan & Myers, more marriages are saved through a time of agreed upon separation.
Separation – A Precursor to Divorce / Author: Charles Sellestor
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