What is the difference between a divorce and legal separation?
A divorce ends a marriage. A legal separation involves the same procedures as a divorce (property division, child support, etc.), but the separated spouses can’t marry others. A legal separation is not a legally recognized status in Florida, but is in certain other states. The same or virtually same legal effect can be created in Florida by an attorney. Often legal separation is an alternative for people who wish to avoid divorce for religious or other reasons. A legal separation can be converted into a divorce. Spouses who reconcile after a legal separation may apply to have the separation revoked.
