Legal separation is a formal agreement that allows married couples to live apart while remaining legally married. It’s not just "taking a break"—it involves court-approved arrangements for finances, child custody, and property, similar to a divorce.
Some couples choose legal separation for personal, financial, or religious reasons. It can provide space to work on the relationship while still protecting both partners’ rights. For others, it's a step toward divorce, offering clarity and structure in a difficult time.
If you’re unsure whether to divorce or stay together, legal separation may give you the time and stability you need to decide.