If you’re considering putting an end to your marriage, the first action to take is to seek the advice of a divorce attorney. They’ll be able to tell you if you’re better off pursuing a legal separation or a divorce. Because both offer advantages that depend on your specific circumstances, it’s essential to understand the differences between the two.

Legal Separation

Under Ohio law, a marriage remains intact during a legal separation. This means that while you and your spouse hire divorce attorneys and make arrangements to live separately, divide your finances, establish child custody agreements, and create other legal boundaries between each other, you are still legally married.

Couples who are opposed to divorce for moral or religious reasons often choose this option. Other times, it can be helpful because it allows couples to remain covered by benefits their spouse holds, such as social security or health insurance, or because it keeps their next-of-kin status intact, which means that they can still make important medical or financial decisions for each. It’s also ideal for couples who think there’s a chance they may reconcile after living apart.

Divorce

Divorce ends your marriage for good. The process is similar to separation in Ohio—both require hiring divorce attorneys, dividing assets, and creating child custody arrangements—but once finalized, you are legally single and permitted to marry again.

Couples who agree about all the aspects of their divorce may file for an uncontested divorce in Ohio, which is typically quicker and less expensive than a contested divorce. A contested divorce is pursued when couples cannot reach a settlement on their own and require litigation.

To decide whether separation or divorce is right for you, contact Don Roberts Law Offices today. Offering family law expertise to clients in Hilliard, Columbus, Dublin, and Franklin County, OH, they can help you determine which option is best for your circumstances. They’re also experienced in civil, criminal, and probate law. Visit their website to learn more about the firm and call (614) 777-4500 to set up a free consultation.

_{Don Roberts Law Offices is based in Columbus, Ohio, but serves clients throughout the State of Ohio. Our office in Hilliard, Ohio, is convenient to Dublin, New Jefferson, Bexley, Westerville, New Albany, Hilliard, Grove City, Reynoldsburg, Gahanna, and other Franklin County municipalities. Our office is located in central Ohio and is just a short drive to/from anywhere in Ohio. Attorney Advertising: This website is designed for general information only and should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. See our profile at Avvo.com or Martindale.com.}