You’d love to get a divorce and move on with your life. You’ve imagined living apart, but the thought of your spouse still remaining somewhat legally tied to you makes you uncomfortable.

Divorce isn’t the only option. Have you considered a legal separation?

Legal Separation vs. Divorce

While a divorce officially terminates the marriage, and requires you to hash out everything related to it including child custody, child and spousal support, and property division, to name a few, there is a way to stay married but pursue independent living again.

It’s called a legal separation and, contrary to popular belief, it is not just another term for a divorce.

During a legal separation, many of the same issues are discussed and agreed upon, all leading up to an official court order that legally grants you your separation.

The main difference? You’re still married!

That means you’re free to live your life and enjoy perks like health insurance and tax advantages, but you don’t have to still sleep next to old “what’s their name” again.

Legal Separation Means Legal Process

It may seem as simple as bidding your spouse adieu and finding a new place, but that leaves everything up in the air and, legally, it means nothing has changed with your arrangement.

Processing an actual legal separation involves the government’s favorite thing– paperwork!

While a legal separation may not be exceedingly difficult to process, provided the separation is uncontested by your spouse, it’s still prudent to hire a qualified professional to help you navigate the process and finalize things quickly.

Representation Every Step of the Way

Hiring a qualified family lawyer like Vonnah Bagner of Bagner Law, PC is a great first step toward processing and finalizing a legal separation.

The attorney first assists in acquiring, completing, and filing all the necessary documents with the appropriate court. If your spouse is in agreement, you’ll proceed straight into negotiations and mediation and hash things out in a civilized fashion.

If they’re less than cooperative, you’ll be very glad you hired a professional to have your back on this. It’s ideal to settle out of court, but, if mediation fails, then the next stop is the courtroom where the terms will be examined before a judge.

The judge will retain the final say regarding the terms of the legal separation, so it’s important to have an attorney who will fight for your best interests and settle for nothing less than what you deserve.

That attorney is Vonnah Bagner.

Bagner Law, PC

If you’re looking for the best legal separation services in the East Bay area, look no further than Bagner Law, PC. Vonnah and her team boast decades of experience in all things related to family law, including divorces and legal separations.

Don’t wait; call today for more information!