Legal separation or in New Jersey a divorce from bed and board is one of three ways the parties to in a marriage or domestic partnership in New Jersey can determine their rights and responsibilities to their spouse when they part ways.
Much like divorce, legal separation involves the judicially determined resolution of issues such as division of property, spousal support, and child custody when spouses decide to live apart. Unlike a divorce, however, a legal separation does not completely terminate the marriage.
Legal separation is often seen as a quicker, more cost-effective, and less permanent approach to ending a marriage or domestic partnership. The New Jersey legal separation attorneys at The Law Offices of Cindy Ramjattan-Paul, P.C. can help you navigate the process with success.
Why Choose a Legal Separation
Legal separation can be preferable to divorce in a number of situations. For instance, if the parties to a marriage wish to live separately but maintain the possibility of reuniting in the future, a legal separation may be the best option. If divorce conflicts with a couple’s cultural or religious background, they may elect to pursue a legal separation as an alternative.
Legal separation also allows parties to maintain certain benefits of marriage, including employee health insurance and favorable tax treatment. Finally, legal separation in New Jersey may be an option for couples who are simply unsure if they want to incur the finality (and expense) of a divorce.
As an added benefit, there is no residency requirement for legal separation, while divorce requires at least one party to have lived in New Jersey for six months prior to filing.
Give us a call at (973) 542-0200 or mail us @ office@cindypaulesq.com to schedule a consultation and discover if a legal separation is the right option for you.
