When a marriage reaches the point of separation, couples may wonder what legal steps and documents are necessary for them to begin living separately and apart. A separation agreement can be created and used to outline the many issues relevant to the new relationship status, though it is not always necessary. For more information on separation agreements and their uses, continue reading and consult with a skilled Union County legal separation attorney today.
What is a Separation Agreement?
A separation agreement is a written and legally binding contract created by two spouses who no longer want to live together as a married couple. These documents are designed to provide clarity on relevant topics and legal protections for both parties.
The separation agreement will outline the terms of the separation, covering areas including:
- Property division: Specific information about which spouse maintains ownership over which property and assets
- Debt division: Financial obligations of each spouse to pay for debts and liabilities
- Alimony: Whether either spouse owes the other financial support, how much, and for how long
- Child custody: Physical and legal custody arrangements for any shared minor children
- Child support: Information about which spouse pays the other child support and the amount
These are the same topics addressed in divorce settlements, as it is crucial to outline the terms of the rights and responsibilities of each individual once they are no longer operating as a unit.
Should I Create a Separation Agreement?
Separation agreements are not legally required in New Jersey, as legal separation is not recognized. Instead, couples are permitted to live apart from one another without permission or documentation from a court.
With that being said, it is recommended that couples who are separating create a legal agreement anyway. This type of documentation provides many benefits, one of the most important being clarification of each party’s rights and obligations. Separation agreements force the couple to discuss and negotiate each important aspect of their relationship to ensure they are on the same page and the decision they come to is legally enforceable. This helps reduce the risk of disputes and “he said she said” later on.
By clearly defining each party’s rights and responsibilities, the separation agreement protects both parties by setting clear terms and expectations that must be adhered to. For example, if the couple casually agrees that one spouse will pay $500 per month in child support during the separation, without a legal agreement, there is nothing they can do to force the spouse to provide the financial support. If they drafted and signed a separation agreement, however, the receiving spouse can use the documentation to force the other party to honor the commitment.
Having a separation agreement can also facilitate the divorce process if the couple decides to terminate the marriage. By addressing the most important issues in advance, the document can simplify the process of creating a divorce settlement agreement. Reach out to a skilled attorney for more information during your separation.
