Why do some couples choose legal separation?
Some choose legal separation because they are still examining their relationship, they “want some space.” If they later decide to resume their full marriage, they can dismiss the legal separation case. On the other hand, if they find later that they want to divorce, they have only to “convert” the decree of legal separation to one for divorce, a simple motion to the court. A second reason for choosing legal separation has to do with health insurance. Usually a spouse can stay on the other spouse’s health insurance while legally separated, but not if divorced. Because of the high cost of health insurance, many couples are choosing this option until other reasonable coverage can be found. There is no time limit for being legally separated. Some religions do not allow for continued membership if there is a divorce. This is the third reason I see for couples choosing legal separation.
