Pros and Cons of a Legal Separation Agreement

A legal separation is an arrangement that is court-ordered and allows a married couple to live separate lives, typically by living apart. Financial duties, child visitation and custody arrangements, and child support may be specified in the separation court order. Despite being officially separated, spouses who are separated can be eligible for some benefits. Some people choose legal separation over divorce for religious reasons, financial reasons, or for the welfare of minor children.