Legal separation in Minnesota offers a unique legal framework for couples who wish to remain married but live apart with court-ordered arrangements. This process provides an alternative to divorce, enabling couples to address key issues like child custody, spousal maintenance, and property division without dissolving their marriage. Legal separation can be a strategic choice for individuals navigating complex financial, religious, or personal circumstances.
For attorneys and business professionals, understanding the nuances of legal separation is critical. Employees or clients may pursue separation for various reasons, leading to questions about health insurance, employee benefits, or financial entanglements. Attorneys new to family law or business lawyers expanding their expertise will benefit from a comprehensive understanding of the procedures, legal requirements, and potential complications involved in legal separation.
This article serves as an extensive resource for attorneys, business owners, and individuals seeking to understand Minnesota’s legal separation laws. It explores every facet of the process, from its historical context and key definitions to the legal framework, common challenges, and strategic considerations. Whether you are a professional seeking clarity or an individual contemplating legal separation, this article provides the tools and insights needed to navigate the process effectively.
Historical Context
Legal separation has its origins in the legal and religious traditions that predate modern divorce laws. Historically, couples who could not obtain a divorce for religious or societal reasons often turned to legal separation as a way to formalize their decision to live apart. Courts or religious authorities would grant separation agreements, allowing couples to address financial and parenting matters without dissolving the marriage.
In Minnesota, legal separation has evolved alongside family law. While divorce laws have become more accessible and equitable, legal separation remains an option for couples who want to maintain their marital status for personal or financial reasons. Today, legal separation is recognized as a legitimate alternative to divorce, offering many of the same legal protections without ending the marriage. It reflects the state’s commitment to providing flexible solutions for families navigating complex dynamics.
Although less common than divorce, legal separation continues to serve an important role in Minnesota’s family law system. Couples who choose this path benefit from a legal process that respects their unique needs, whether related to cultural values, financial considerations, or emotional preferences.
Key Legal Terms and Definitions
Understanding the terminology associated with legal separation is essential for navigating the process effectively. Here are key terms that frequently arise in discussions about legal separation in Minnesota:
A spouse is a legally married individual, regardless of gender identity. In Minnesota, same-sex marriages are recognized, and the term applies universally to all married individuals. A legal separation is a court-ordered arrangement that allows spouses to live separately while addressing financial, parental, and property matters. Unlike a divorce, legal separation does not dissolve the marriage.
The petitioner is the spouse who initiates the legal separation process by filing a petition in court, while the respondent is the spouse who responds to the petition. Both parties are referred to as “spouses” during the legal separation process because their marital status remains intact.
Marital property refers to assets acquired by either spouse during the marriage. These assets are typically subject to equitable division in a legal separation or divorce. Nonmarital property includes assets acquired by one spouse before marriage, as well as inheritances or gifts received by one spouse alone. Nonmarital property is generally excluded from division.
Spousal maintenance, commonly called alimony, involves financial support paid by one spouse to the other. It is intended to address disparities in income or financial stability between the spouses. Child custody pertains to arrangements regarding where a child lives (physical custody) and who makes major decisions about their upbringing (legal custody). Child support refers to financial payments made by the noncustodial parent to the custodial parent to contribute to the child’s living expenses.
Finally, a parenting plan is a formal document that outlines how custody, parenting time, and decision-making responsibilities will be shared between the parents. This plan is often a key component of legal separation cases involving children.
By understanding these definitions, individuals and professionals can better navigate the legal complexities of separation and ensure clear communication throughout the process.
Reasons People Choose Legal Separation Over Divorce
Couples pursue legal separation instead of divorce for a variety of reasons, often tied to their unique circumstances. While the decision is deeply personal, several common motivations stand out.
Religious beliefs often play a significant role in choosing legal separation. Some religions discourage or prohibit divorce, making separation a more acceptable option. Legal separation allows couples to live apart while adhering to their faith’s teachings, providing a way to reconcile legal needs with spiritual values.
Health insurance and financial benefits are another major factor. Divorce can result in the loss of spousal health insurance coverage or access to certain benefits tied to marital status. By remaining legally married through separation, spouses can often retain these benefits while living independently. This is particularly important for couples where one spouse relies on the other’s employer-sponsored insurance or pension.
For some, legal separation serves as a trial period before deciding whether to proceed with divorce. It offers a structured way to test living apart while maintaining the possibility of reconciliation. Others may prefer separation due to cultural or emotional considerations, such as reducing the stigma associated with divorce or preserving a sense of family unity for children.
Ultimately, legal separation provides flexibility for couples who want to address critical issues without permanently ending their marriage. It is a viable option for those seeking an alternative to divorce that aligns with their financial, religious, or personal priorities.
Differences Between Legal Separation and Divorce
While legal separation and divorce share similarities, their differences are fundamental and impact how couples navigate their futures.
The most significant distinction lies in marital status. Divorce ends the marriage entirely, allowing both parties to remarry and severing all legal ties except those outlined in the divorce decree. In contrast, legal separation preserves the marital bond, meaning the spouses remain legally married and cannot marry others.
Legal separation is often less final than divorce. Some couples use it as a temporary measure, maintaining the possibility of reconciliation. Others choose it as a permanent arrangement to address their needs without dissolving the marriage. Divorce, by its nature, is a permanent decision unless the couple chooses to remarry.
Another key difference involves benefits. A legally separated spouse may still qualify for spousal health insurance, social security benefits, or other marital privileges, depending on the terms of the separation and the policies involved. Divorce typically terminates these benefits unless explicitly agreed upon during the proceedings.
Understanding these differences is critical for couples considering their options. Legal separation offers a middle ground for those who value the marital connection but need a formal framework for living apart.
Minnesota’s Legal Framework for Separation
Minnesota law provides a clear legal framework for couples seeking separation without ending their marriage. Governed primarily by Minnesota Statutes Chapter 518, legal separation offers many of the same legal protections as divorce, including provisions for child custody, spousal maintenance, and property division.
One unique feature of Minnesota’s legal separation laws is that they do not impose stringent residency requirements. While divorce requires at least one spouse to have lived in the state for 180 days before filing, legal separation has no such waiting period. This makes separation a faster option for couples who need immediate legal arrangements but do not yet meet the residency criteria for divorce.
Minnesota is also a no-fault state, meaning that neither spouse is required to prove wrongdoing to file for separation. Simply stating that the couple desires to live apart is sufficient grounds for the court to grant a legal separation. This approach reduces conflict by removing the need to assign blame, allowing couples to focus on resolving practical matters such as financial support and parenting plans.
Legal separation is treated with the same seriousness as divorce in Minnesota courts. Judges evaluate property, custody, and financial matters using the same principles of fairness and the best interests of the child. This ensures that legal separations provide a comprehensive framework for managing the complexities of family dynamics while preserving the marriage.
The Process of Obtaining a Legal Separation
The process of obtaining a legal separation in Minnesota is similar to that of divorce, with several distinct steps aimed at ensuring fairness and clarity for both parties. While it can be less adversarial, it still requires attention to detail and a willingness to engage with the legal system.
The process begins with the petitioner filing a petition for legal separation in the district court. The petition outlines the reasons for the separation and requests specific arrangements for property division, child custody, spousal maintenance, and other relevant matters. While no residency period is required, the petition must be filed in the county where either spouse resides.
Once the petition is filed, the respondent is formally served with the documents. The respondent has the opportunity to file an answer, either agreeing to the terms outlined in the petition or contesting specific points. If disagreements arise, the case may proceed to mediation or trial to resolve the contested issues.
In cases where immediate arrangements are needed, either spouse can request temporary orders. These orders provide interim solutions for child custody, financial support, or property use while the separation case is ongoing. Temporary orders remain in effect until the final separation decree is issued.
Discovery is a critical part of the process, involving the exchange of financial information and other relevant documents. This step ensures transparency and allows both parties to make informed decisions about property division and support obligations. Tools like interrogatories, requests for production, and depositions are commonly used during this phase.
If the spouses reach an agreement on all issues, the terms are documented in a separation agreement and submitted to the court for approval. In the absence of agreement, the case may go to trial, where a judge makes the final decisions. Once the court issues the separation decree, the couple is legally separated and bound by the terms outlined in the order.
The process is structured to ensure that all relevant matters are addressed thoroughly. Whether through negotiation or litigation, legal separation provides a formal resolution for couples who wish to live apart without ending their marriage.
Property Division in Legal Separation
In Minnesota, property division during a legal separation follows the principles of equitable distribution, ensuring that marital property is divided fairly between the spouses. Equitable distribution does not necessarily mean equal division; instead, the court considers various factors to determine what is fair based on the circumstances.
Marital property includes assets and debts acquired during the marriage, such as real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, and business interests. Nonmarital property, on the other hand, typically includes assets acquired before the marriage, inheritances, and gifts intended for one spouse alone. While nonmarital property is usually excluded from division, disputes can arise if assets have been commingled or increased in value due to marital contributions.
The court also considers the valuation date, which is the date used to determine the value of marital assets. This is often the date of filing or service of the separation petition, but it can be adjusted based on the circumstances. Accurate valuation is critical, particularly for complex assets like businesses or investments.
For business owners, property division can be particularly challenging. The court may allocate business interests to one spouse while compensating the other spouse with different marital assets. Alternatively, the business may be sold, or the owning spouse may buy out the other spouse’s share. Engaging a valuation expert is often necessary to ensure a fair outcome.
The goal of property division in legal separation is to provide each spouse with a fair share of the marital estate while respecting the unique dynamics of the marriage. This process requires careful consideration of both tangible and intangible assets to create an equitable arrangement.
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)
Spousal maintenance, commonly referred to as alimony, is a key component of legal separation cases in Minnesota. It provides financial support to a spouse who may be unable to meet their needs independently, ensuring a fair distribution of resources after the separation.
Minnesota courts consider several factors when determining whether spousal maintenance is appropriate. These include the length of the marriage, the standard of living established during the marriage, the age and health of each spouse, and their respective earning capacities. For example, a spouse who stayed home to raise children or supported the other spouse’s career may be entitled to maintenance if they lack the skills or experience to re-enter the workforce.
Spousal maintenance can be awarded on a temporary or permanent basis. Temporary maintenance is intended to support the recipient spouse while they gain the education or training needed to become self-sufficient. Permanent maintenance, while less common, may be granted in cases where the recipient spouse cannot achieve financial independence due to age, disability, or other factors.
Unlike child support, which is calculated using state guidelines, spousal maintenance is more discretionary. This flexibility allows the court to tailor the award to the specific circumstances of the spouses. Modifications to spousal maintenance can be requested if there are significant changes in circumstances, such as a loss of income or a change in health.
Spousal maintenance ensures that both parties can transition to their new lives with financial stability. By addressing disparities in income and resources, it promotes fairness and reduces the potential for financial hardship following separation.
Child Custody and Support in Legal Separation
When minor children are involved, legal separation must address custody and support to ensure the well-being of the children and clarity for both parents. Minnesota courts prioritize the best interests of the child, a standard that considers various factors to create a stable and supportive environment.
Child custody is divided into two categories: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about the child’s upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and religious practices. Physical custody determines where the child lives and the day-to-day care arrangements. Both types of custody can be awarded jointly or solely, depending on the circumstances.
A parenting plan is often developed during the legal separation process to outline custody and visitation arrangements. This plan specifies parenting time schedules, decision-making responsibilities, and mechanisms for resolving disputes. The goal is to provide a clear framework that minimizes conflict and promotes the child’s best interests.
Child support is calculated using Minnesota’s income shares model, which considers the incomes of both parents, the number of children, and the parenting time arrangements. The noncustodial parent typically pays child support to the custodial parent, covering expenses such as housing, food, and education. Additional provisions may address healthcare, childcare, and extracurricular activities.
Both custody and support orders are legally binding and enforceable. Failure to comply with these orders can result in legal consequences, including fines or modifications to custody arrangements. Legal separation ensures that these critical issues are addressed comprehensively, providing stability for the children and clarity for the parents.
Common Problems in Legal Separation
Legal separation provides an alternative to divorce, but it is not without challenges. Understanding and addressing these common problems can help individuals, attorneys, and business professionals navigate the process more effectively.
One common issue is uncertainty about finality. Unlike divorce, legal separation does not terminate the marriage, which can leave some issues unresolved. Spouses may struggle with the emotional and financial entanglements that remain due to their ongoing marital status. For example, debts incurred by one spouse may still legally affect the other, creating potential financial vulnerability. Additionally, if one spouse decides to pursue divorce later, it can require additional legal proceedings, adding to the time and cost.
Another challenge involves financial entanglements, particularly when it comes to shared accounts, joint debts, and ongoing financial obligations. While legal separation allows for the division of marital property, couples often remain tied financially in ways that can be challenging to manage. For instance, questions about tax filing status or joint financial liabilities can create confusion and conflict if not addressed thoroughly in the separation agreement.
Insurance and benefit complications are also a common concern. While some couples rely on legal separation to maintain health insurance or other benefits, not all insurance providers recognize legal separation as sufficient to continue spousal coverage. Policies may vary, and unexpected changes can leave one spouse without critical coverage. Employers may also face challenges interpreting how separation affects employee benefits, requiring legal clarification and careful planning.
By proactively addressing these issues during the separation process, couples can mitigate potential challenges. This requires detailed agreements, clear communication, and often the involvement of legal and financial professionals to ensure all aspects of the separation are properly managed.
Common Misconceptions
Misunderstandings about legal separation can lead to confusion and unrealistic expectations for couples considering this option. Addressing these misconceptions is essential for making informed decisions.
A widespread misconception is that legal separation ends the marriage. While it provides a court-ordered framework for living apart, it does not dissolve the marital bond. This means spouses remain legally married, which can have implications for future financial obligations, inheritance rights, and even personal relationships.
Another common misunderstanding is that legal separation is faster or cheaper than divorce. In reality, the legal process for separation is often as detailed and time-consuming as divorce. Couples must address the same issues, including property division, custody arrangements, and spousal support, which can result in similar costs and procedural requirements. While some couples perceive separation as a simpler alternative, they should be prepared for a rigorous process.
Many people believe that legal separation automatically transitions into divorce. In Minnesota, this is not the case. Legal separation is a distinct legal status that does not convert into divorce without additional legal action. If one spouse later decides to file for divorce, a new petition must be filed, and the court must issue a separate decree.
Finally, some couples assume that informal separation provides the same protections as legal separation. While living apart without a formal agreement may work temporarily, it does not provide the legal enforceability needed to resolve disputes over finances, custody, or property. Only a court-ordered legal separation offers the protections and clarity necessary for long-term arrangements.
Clarifying these misconceptions can help couples make well-informed decisions about whether legal separation is the right choice for their circumstances.
Countervailing Views
While legal separation offers benefits for certain couples, it is not without its critics. Understanding countervailing views can provide a balanced perspective on this option.
Supporters of legal separation argue that it is a compassionate alternative to divorce, particularly for couples with strong religious or cultural beliefs. By preserving the marital bond, legal separation allows spouses to address their practical needs without violating their values. It also offers flexibility for couples who may reconcile, providing a structured way to live apart while maintaining the possibility of resuming their relationship.
Critics, however, contend that legal separation can create unnecessary complications. They argue that if spouses have reached the point of needing court intervention, it may be more practical to pursue divorce, which provides a definitive resolution. Maintaining marital status while living apart can lead to ongoing financial and emotional entanglements that prolong the challenges of separation.
Another concern raised by skeptics is the potential for legal separation to delay the inevitable. For some couples, separation serves as a temporary measure before ultimately filing for divorce. In these cases, the additional legal proceedings can increase costs and complexity without providing significant benefits.
Both perspectives highlight the importance of evaluating legal separation on a case-by-case basis. While it can be an effective solution for some, others may find that divorce offers a more straightforward and final resolution to their marital issues.
Potential Consequences of Non-Compliance
Once a legal separation decree is issued, it is legally binding and enforceable. Failure to comply with the terms of the decree can result in serious consequences for either spouse, particularly in matters involving financial obligations or parenting arrangements.
Noncompliance with child support or spousal maintenance orders is a common issue. If one spouse fails to make the required payments, the other spouse can seek enforcement through the court. Consequences may include wage garnishment, liens on property, or even contempt of court charges, which can result in fines or imprisonment in extreme cases.
Failure to adhere to custody or parenting time arrangements can also have significant repercussions. For example, a parent who denies the other parent court-ordered visitation may face penalties, including modifications to the custody order. The court’s primary concern is the best interests of the child, and noncompliance with parenting agreements is taken seriously.
Other forms of noncompliance, such as refusing to transfer property or assets as ordered by the court, can lead to additional legal actions. The court may impose sanctions or require the noncompliant party to cover the legal fees incurred by the other spouse in enforcing the decree.
To avoid these consequences, both parties should work closely with their attorneys to understand and fulfill their obligations under the separation decree. Open communication and a willingness to address issues promptly can help prevent disputes and ensure compliance.
Legal Defenses in Disputes
While legal separation is often a cooperative process, disputes can arise over financial obligations, custody arrangements, or property division. In such cases, each spouse may have legal defenses available to protect their interests.
One common defense is changed circumstances. If a spouse experiences a significant change in financial or personal circumstances, such as job loss or a medical emergency, they can petition the court to modify the terms of the separation decree. Courts are often willing to adjust orders if the changes are substantial and beyond the control of the affected party.
Another defense involves mistake or fraud. If one spouse discovers that the other provided inaccurate or incomplete financial information during the separation process, they can seek to have the relevant portions of the decree revisited. This is particularly important in cases involving hidden assets or misrepresentation of income.
In disputes over custody or parenting time, a parent may argue that the current arrangement no longer serves the child’s best interests. Courts are generally open to revisiting custody agreements if compelling evidence is presented that a modification would benefit the child’s welfare.
To successfully assert these defenses, spouses must provide clear evidence and follow proper legal procedures. Working with an experienced attorney is essential for navigating disputes and advocating for fair outcomes.
Strategic Considerations for Business Owners
Legal separation can have significant implications for business owners, both personally and in the workplace. Understanding these strategic considerations can help mitigate risks and ensure smooth operations.
One key issue is the treatment of business assets during separation. If one spouse owns a business, the value of that business may be considered marital property subject to division. Courts often rely on valuation experts to determine the business’s worth and allocate assets accordingly. Business owners may need to negotiate carefully to retain control while ensuring fairness to their spouse.
Employers must also address the impact of separation on employee benefits. For example, health insurance coverage for a legally separated spouse may depend on the terms of the employer’s insurance policy. Some policies treat separated spouses as eligible dependents, while others do not. Clear communication with employees and legal counsel can help employers navigate these complexities.
Finally, business owners should consider the potential impact of separation on workplace dynamics. Personal disputes can spill over into the professional realm, particularly if both spouses are involved in the same business. Establishing clear boundaries and seeking professional mediation when necessary can help preserve business relationships and ensure continuity.
By proactively addressing these issues, business owners can protect their personal and professional interests during a legal separation.
Strategic Considerations for Attorneys
Attorneys handling legal separation cases in Minnesota must navigate a multifaceted legal landscape. Whether representing the petitioner or respondent, understanding the procedural nuances and broader implications of separation is essential for effective advocacy. Legal separation cases often require a multidisciplinary approach that blends family law expertise with financial and emotional sensitivity.
One of the most critical considerations for attorneys is client counseling. Many clients pursue legal separation without fully understanding its implications. Attorneys should clarify how separation differs from divorce, particularly in terms of financial entanglements, ongoing obligations, and marital status. For example, clients should know that a legally separated spouse may still inherit assets or be responsible for joint debts unless specific provisions are made in the separation agreement.
Attorneys should also evaluate whether settlement or litigation is the best approach for their client’s circumstances. While litigation may be necessary in contentious cases, mediation and alternative dispute resolution often provide a less adversarial way to resolve disputes. Settlements can save time and money while fostering cooperation, which is particularly valuable when children are involved. A well-drafted separation agreement should address all foreseeable issues to minimize future disputes.
For complex cases involving significant assets, business interests, or retirement accounts, attorneys should collaborate with financial experts and valuation professionals. Accurate valuation of marital property is crucial for equitable distribution. This includes ensuring that business assets are fairly assessed and that mechanisms like Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) are used appropriately for dividing retirement accounts.
Attorneys should also prepare for potential post-decree modifications. Legal separation agreements are binding, but circumstances may change over time. Clients may need to revisit issues such as spousal maintenance, child custody, or parenting time. Anticipating these possibilities and incorporating flexibility into the original agreement can help clients avoid costly future litigation.
By adopting a strategic, client-focused approach, attorneys can help their clients achieve fair outcomes while reducing the emotional and financial strain of legal separation.
Related Issues
Legal separation often intersects with other areas of law and life, creating additional considerations for both clients and attorneys. Addressing these related issues ensures a comprehensive and effective approach to separation cases.
Immigration Status
For spouses with immigration concerns, legal separation can have significant implications. A non-citizen spouse who relies on marriage-based immigration status may face challenges if the separation alters their eligibility for certain visas or permanent residency. Consulting an immigration attorney is essential in these cases to ensure that legal separation does not unintentionally jeopardize a spouse’s immigration status or future pathways to citizenship.
Bankruptcy and Debt Management
Couples facing financial difficulties may need to consider the interplay between legal separation and bankruptcy. Joint debts and shared liabilities can complicate the separation process, particularly if one spouse files for bankruptcy while the other does not. Coordination between family law and bankruptcy attorneys is critical to avoid conflicting strategies and ensure that debt responsibilities are allocated fairly.
Wills and Estate Planning
Legal separation requires careful attention to wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations. While separation does not dissolve the marriage, it often necessitates revisions to estate planning documents. Spouses should update their wills to reflect their current intentions, such as removing the other spouse as a beneficiary or designating new guardians for minor children. Attorneys should also advise clients on how separation affects inheritance rights and spousal claims under Minnesota law.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Minnesota courts encourage the use of mediation and collaborative law in family disputes, including legal separation. These approaches can reduce conflict, streamline the process, and result in more tailored agreements. Attorneys should discuss these options with their clients, particularly in cases where preserving a cooperative relationship is important, such as when children are involved.
By addressing these related issues proactively, clients and attorneys can avoid common pitfalls and create a more stable foundation for life after separation.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
Navigating legal separation effectively requires careful planning and a proactive approach. The following tips and best practices can help clients, attorneys, and business owners manage the process more smoothly.
For Individuals
- Organize Financial Records: Gather all relevant financial documents, including tax returns, bank statements, pay stubs, and investment accounts. Transparency about assets and debts is critical for equitable property division and spousal maintenance determinations.
- Communicate Clearly and Respectfully: Whether negotiating directly with a spouse or working through attorneys, maintaining clear and respectful communication can reduce conflict and lead to better outcomes.
- Seek Emotional Support: Separation is emotionally challenging. Working with a counselor or therapist can provide valuable coping strategies and help navigate the personal aspects of the process.
For Attorneys
- Draft Comprehensive Agreements: A well-drafted separation agreement should address all foreseeable issues, including contingencies for changing circumstances. This reduces the likelihood of future disputes and ensures enforceability.
- Anticipate Client Needs: Each client’s situation is unique. Attorneys should tailor their advice to the client’s priorities, whether that involves preserving assets, securing custody arrangements, or minimizing litigation costs.
- Collaborate with Experts: In complex cases, working with financial planners, business appraisers, and tax professionals can provide the clarity needed for equitable settlements.
For Business Owners
- Understand Benefits Implications: Employers should review their policies to determine how legal separation affects employee benefits, such as health insurance or retirement plans. Clear communication with employees can prevent misunderstandings.
- Protect Confidential Information: If a business is involved in the separation process, ensure that sensitive information is disclosed only as necessary and protected during legal proceedings.
- Plan for Business Continuity: Separation can create distractions for employees and business owners alike. Establishing contingency plans for leadership or workload distribution can help maintain productivity.
By following these best practices, all parties involved in a legal separation can navigate the process more effectively and with fewer complications.
Conclusion
Legal separation in Minnesota is a versatile and often misunderstood alternative to divorce. It provides a structured framework for couples to address financial, parenting, and property matters while maintaining their marital status. For many, it is a compassionate and practical solution that aligns with their personal, religious, or financial circumstances.
For attorneys, legal separation requires a nuanced understanding of family law and a commitment to tailoring solutions to each client’s needs. By focusing on clear communication, comprehensive agreements, and strategic planning, attorneys can guide their clients through the process with confidence. Similarly, business owners must navigate the workplace implications of legal separation, balancing employee support with operational considerations.
While legal separation is not the right choice for every couple, it offers significant benefits for those seeking an alternative to divorce. By addressing the legal, financial, and emotional aspects of separation, Minnesota’s legal framework ensures that couples can transition to their new lives with stability and security. Whether approached as a temporary arrangement or a long-term solution, legal separation remains a vital option within the state’s family law system.
