Considering A Separation Instead Of A Fort Lauderdale Divorce? Find Out Your Options

If problems between you and your spouse seem impossible to overcome, you have several options. You can continue trying to make the best of the situation, opt for some time apart via a separation, or effectively end your marriage by filing for a divorce in Fort Lauderdale.

Getting a divorce is a big step, and it can have significant repercussions on every area of your life. Our Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer explains why, for some couples, getting a legal separation is the best option.

Common Goals Of Marital Separation In Fort Lauderdale

Deciding what to do about a troubled marriage is never easy. In debating whether to separate from your spouse or file a divorce petition through the Broward County Family County, consider your ultimate goals.

There are various reasons why a couple may opt for a formal separation rather than a divorce in Fort Lauderdale. Among the most common include:

• They are unsure of whether they want to end the marriage but need some time apart;
• They want to protect their rights and the privileges they get from being married, such as being listed on their partner’s health insurance or receiving pension benefits;
• Getting a divorce goes against their culture or religious beliefs;
• Getting a divorce is frowned upon by their family or community.

A legal separation is an option in all of the above situations, but there is only one problem: there is no such thing under the Florida Statutes.

Options For Legal Separation In Fort Lauderdale

No specific legal provisions exist for couples who prefer to separate rather than file for a divorce in Florida. However, there are steps our Fort Lauderdale legal separation attorney can take to formalize your arrangement and protect your legal rights. Options available include:

• Postnuptial agreements: This provides estate planning benefits and protects your rights to property and assets during your separation and in the event you decide to get a divorce.
• Temporary property division order: You may be able to get a temporary order protecting your rights to specific property and assets, such as cars, furnishings, or the family home.
• Temporary custody orders: If you have children, getting a temporary custody order avoids potential disputes and protects your parental rights.
• Temporary support orders: Depending on the circumstances surrounding your situation, you may be able to request a temporary order awarding you spousal and child support.

While Florida may not offer legal separation as an option, the above and other legal actions can achieve roughly the same thing.

To Discuss Your Options, Schedule A Consultation Today With Our Fort Lauderdale Legal Separation Attorney

Couples have their own good reasons for choosing a separation rather than getting a divorce in Fort Lauderdale. Our office respects your decision and offers the professional legal guidance you need to navigate this situation and protect your rights. To discuss your options, contact our office. Schedule a consultation with Fort Lauderdale legal separation attorney Sandra Bonfiglio today.

Sources:

browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family#General

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html