Mens Family Law & Divorce Attorneys San Diego

The Men's Legal Center
San Diego Legal Separation Lawyers

When people would like to change the status of their marriage in the eyes of the law but for any number of reasons do not want to complete a full-fledged divorce, there are options available under California law.  One such option is known as legal separation.  While this may seem to be a simple process to complete, it should not be attempted without the help of experienced San Diego legal separation lawyers.  Below is a brief overview of this issue.

California Legal Separation Described

A legal separation in California bears many similarities to the dissolution of a marriage, but the main difference is that the parties remain legally married.  The law recognizes that they are separated, and the process of obtaining a legal separation is similar to an actual divorce.  Therefore, those who are considering this option need to seek the help of San Diego separation lawyers to make sure that legal rights are properly protected.

The Process of Obtaining a Legal Separation in California

In order to obtain a legal separation in California, many of the same issues that would be resolved in a divorce need to be handled during this process.  Examples of these issues include:

• Property division
• Child custody
• Visitation
• Child support
• Spousal support

The only tangible differences that exist between a divorce and a legal separation include the fact that the parties to a separation cannot remarry, and if the parties ultimately decide to pursue dissolution of the marriage they must begin the divorce process anew.

Advantages of a Legal Separation in California

There are certain advantages that a legal separation in California can provide for the parties who choose to seek such a remedy, and these advantages include:

• Insurance coverage for all parties involved can remain intact
• The religious beliefs of one or both parties prevent a full divorce and/or subsequent remarriage
• The process of having assets that are acquired becoming part of the community property marital estate stops when the legal separation is final

How San Diego Legal Separation Lawyers Can Help

As stated above, the process of obtaining a legal separation in California is much the same as what exists for a divorce.  Therefore, men who are contemplating this step need to make sure that their interests are protected properly and that their legal rights are protected in order to minimize the chance that a negative result will unfold.  Every issue that could arise that could turn adversarial, including child custody and visitation, needs to be properly prepared for before the hearing regarding legal separation is held.

If you find yourself in this position, you owe it to yourself and to any children of the marriage to make sure that you provide for your own legal rights and interests.  Contact the San Diego legal separation lawyers at the Men's Legal Center today to schedule an initial consultation.