Are There Any Limitations to Legal Separation?

Understanding Legal Separation

Legal separation is a court-recognized separation of spouses which allows both parties to live separately while still maintaining the legal status of being married. Distinguished from divorce, legal separation does not dissolve the marriage but provides a framework for aspects like spousal support, child custody, and property division. It's often chosen over divorce due to certain individual circumstances such as religious beliefs, the potential for reconciliation, or for maintaining certain marital benefits. While there are benefits to legal separation, every situation is unique, so it’s important to understand the potential limitations. Here, we’re sharing the financial, social, emotional, and legal limitations behind legally separating.

Limitations of Legal Separation

In Washington state, legal separation comes with its unique nuances. The process for obtaining a legal separation in Washington is similar to that of divorce, requiring the filing of a Petition for Legal Separation with the appropriate court. However, while a divorce requires a mandatory waiting period of 90 days, no such waiting period exists for legal separation. This provision can expedite the process for couples seeking immediate financial separation. Below, we explore the four limitations that couples might encounter while undergoing a legal separation in Washington state:

Financial Limitations

Financial limitations are notably one of the key constraints associated with legal separation. Unlike divorce, which effectively severs all financial ties, legal separation can often leave both parties financially intertwined. For example, each spouse may still be held liable for the other’s debt accrued during the period of separation.

Importantly, while certain marital benefits like health insurance might be retained, legal separation may complicate matters of alimony and child support. Given that the couple remains legally married, the conditions for spousal support and child custody could be subject to change throughout the period of separation, as they are often contingent on the couple's financial circumstances and individual needs. Therefore, couples considering legal separation should carefully evaluate these potential financial implications.

Social Limitations

Legal separation can also present certain social challenges. The status of being ‘separated but still married' might lead to societal misunderstanding and judgments—potentially straining relationships with friends, family, and acquaintances. This altered social status might lead to feelings of isolation and discomfort in social settings. Furthermore, dating during legal separation could be deemed inappropriate and could lead to complicated legal and emotional situations.

Emotional Limitations

Similar to the often-forgotten social limitations, legal separation can have substantial psychological impacts on children. It may create feelings of confusion, insecurity, and anxiety, as children grapple with the changed family dynamics and possible disruptions in routines. They may face challenges comprehending the concept of their parents living separately while still being married. This situation can also lead to children harboring false hopes of reconciliation.

Additionally, children might feel caught in the middle if conflicts persist or intensify during the separation period. This makes it vital for parents to maintain open and honest communication about the situation, and if necessary, seek professional help such as counseling or therapy, to support their children's emotional well-being during this process.

Legal Limitations

Regarding the legal restrictions that come with a legal separation, the most crucial is probably the inability to remarry. Since a legal separation does not terminate the marriage, both parties are still considered legally married to each other, and thus, cannot marry someone else. This stipulation can significantly limit personal freedom, especially for those who may want to move on and start a new life with someone else.

In terms of property division, while a legal separation agreement can predetermine the distribution of marital assets, any wealth or property acquired post-separation is typically considered separate property. This can lead to complexities, especially when one spouse accumulates significant assets independently during the separation period. Additionally, while a legal separation agreement can outline custody and visitation arrangements, these are subject to review and modification by the courts. This condition means that the agreed-upon arrangements might change over time, potentially leading to instability and continued legal wrangling.

Handling the Limitations of Legal Separation

Coping with the process of legal separation requires strength, patience, and strategic planning. Open communication and mutual respect are key elements in navigating this challenging path. Couples should openly discuss their expectations, concerns, and fears regarding the separation process. Consulting with a trained mediator or counselor can provide valuable guidance and assist in diffusing potential conflicts. It's also crucial to take care of one's mental health during this period, as emotional distress can exacerbate the complexities of the situation. Furthermore, seeking support from trusted friends or joining support groups can provide comfort and reassurance, reminding individuals that they are not alone in their journey.

Hiring a family law attorney during the legal separation process can be beneficial in multiple ways. They are equipped with the necessary expertise to navigate complex legal issues, ensuring that your interests are accurately represented. Whether it's in terms of the division of assets, child custody arrangements, or spousal support, an attorney can provide valuable insights and propose feasible solutions tailored to your unique situation.

The attorneys at McKinley Irvin can help in drafting a comprehensive separation agreement that clearly outlines the rights and responsibilities of each party during the separation period as well as provide guidance throughout the mediation or arbitration process. If you decide that divorce is the best path forward, we can walk you through the process—answering any questions you might have.

Contact our firm at 206-397-0399 or online to learn more about how we can help you through the legal separation process.