Hackensack, NJ Legal Separation Attorney
Separate Your Marital & Divorce Matters in New Jersey
During the course of a marriage, it is not uncommon for spouses to experience disagreements and conflicts. While some of these disagreements can be resolved with a marital settlement agreement, others may necessitate the assistance of an experienced family law attorney to resolve these matters in a legal separation. At Laterra & Hodge, we understand the stress and anxiety that accompanies a divorce, and we are committed to helping you navigate the legal process with dignity and respect.
If you are considering a legal separation, contact our office today to schedule an initial consultation with one of our experienced divorce and family law attorneys. We represent clients throughout the greater New Jersey area, including Bergen County, Passaic County, and Hudson County.
Schedule an initial consultation with Laterra & Hodge, LLC by calling (201) 580-2240 or filling out our contact form.
What Is a Legal Separation?
A legal separation is a court order that legally separates a married couple. As a result of a legal separation, the parties are no longer required to live together and are free to pursue separate lives. The only difference between a legal separation and a divorce is that a legal separation does not terminate the marriage. As a result, the parties are still legally married and continue to share certain marital rights, including the right to inherit from one another and the right to receive social security benefits based on the other spouse's employment history.
Why Consider a Legal Separation?
While a legal separation does not dissolve a marriage, it is a necessary step in the divorce process. As a result, couples who are considering a legal separation should consult with an experienced family law attorney to learn more about their options and the necessary legal proceedings. Our firm can help you navigate these matters and reach an agreement with your spouse.
A legal separation is also beneficial for those who wish to separate but remain in the same home. In such situations, it may be beneficial to draft a separation agreement that details the rights and responsibilities of each party. This agreement can be drafted by an experienced family law attorney and can help to prevent additional legal fees if a divorce is eventually filed after a legal separation.
What Are the Differences Between a Legal Separation and a Divorce?
While a legal separation does not dissolve a marriage, a divorce does. As a result, the main difference between the two is that a divorce terminates a marriage, while a legal separation does not. As a result, certain marital rights and obligations, such as the right to inherit property and the right to social security benefits, will be terminated. Another difference is that a divorce will result in the termination of certain marital rights, such as the right to receive spousal support and the right to receive certain benefits based on the other spouse's employment history. As a result, when a divorce is filed, the parties will no longer have any marital obligations to one another.
Contact Our Firm Today
If you are considering a legal separation, we encourage you to consult with an experienced family law attorney to learn more about your options and the necessary legal proceedings. Our firm can help you navigate these matters and reach an agreement with your spouse.
If you need the assistance of an attorney to draft a separation agreement, we can help. We draft separation and property division agreements regularly and can help you to draft an agreement that accurately reflects your rights and obligations. We represent clients throughout the greater New Jersey area, including Bergen County, Passaic County, and Hudson County.
For experienced representation in a legal separation or divorce, contact Laterra & Hodge, LLC by calling (201) 580-2240 or filling out our contact form.
