Legal separation is an alternative to divorce with the ability to resolve many of the same issues as a divorce proceeding. The difference is that the marriage between the couple is still valid.

Do you file immediately for divorce, to formally dissolve your marriage, or try a separation (legal or otherwise)? Here, relationship experts and a family attorney explore the options.

If a couple wants to end their marriage but can’t move forward with a divorce yet, a legal separation could allow them to define the terms of what living separately will look like.

Law cited "irreconcilable differences" as the reason for the split and is seeking joint custody of their 6-year-old daughter ...

In a legal separation, spouses are still considered “next of kin,” meaning that they can make medical or financial decisions for their spouse. When you divorce, this is no longer the case.

You become legally single and thus can remarry. Legal separation can serve as a kind of “trial” should you be unsure whether you want to completely dissolve the marriage or not.

As a Christian who believes in the sanctity of the marriage covenant, I am hesitant to ever recommend divorce. As Jesus said in Mark 10:9, “Let no one split apart what God has joined together.” ...