Skip to Content
Cutter & Lax, Attorneys at Law Cutter & Lax, Attorneys at Law
Call Us Today! 818-839-2533
Top
Legal Separation

Legal Separation

Santa Clarita Valley Divorce Lawyer

The decision to get a divorce is never an easy one and it is seldom one that is made quickly. Many couples who have been married for at least a few years will make the decision to end their marriage gradually. Sometimes, a couple may be sure that they need to spend time apart but do not want to obtain a divorce for religious or financial reasons or simply because they are not ready for that kind of permanency.

Most people wonder why such couples do not simple split up and live separately. The answer is because there are legal ramifications that can possibly ensue if the couple disregards the proper steps. If a couple truly wishes to spend time apart and "test drive" divorce, they can become legally separated, which is an alternative to divorce.

Legal separation allows two people to split up and lead separate lives without terminating the legal marital status and still avoiding legal ramifications of desertion charges. The process of being legally separated involves factors similar to a divorce, including child custody, child support and even spousal support. The fundamental difference between legal separation and divorce is that legal separation does not legally remove marital status, meaning neither partner may remarry until an actual divorce is obtained.

Reasons for Legal Separation

Many couples choose to opt for a legal separation, at least temporarily, for a number of reasons. First of all, divorce in California takes at least six months to obtain while a legal separation can be issued immediately upon submitting the petition. This allows the couple to move and live apart while they contemplate the future of their relationship. Given that the marriage is not legally terminated, many couples choose to opt for legal separation because their chosen religion does not allow for an actual divorce or because of tax reasons. Lastly, some couples are simply not sure if divorce is what they want. With legal separation, they have time to think about what they really want and if they wish, reconcile their marriage or proceed with a divorce.

If you are not sure about divorce, legal separation may be a favorable alternative for your situation. With legal separation, you will have virtually the same freedom of a divorcee with the exception of the ability to remarry. If you and your spouse eventually choose to obtain a divorce, you simply submit the paper work and begin that process when you are ready. To learn more about legal separation, call the Santa Clarita Valley divorce attorneys at Cutter & Lax today.

Hear It From Our Clients

Every Case Creates An Impact
    "He was always responsive and really listened to my concerns and goals and worked towards achieving them."
    Had a wonderful experience with this law firm, Matthew Lax in particular. He is very knowledgeable and fights for you without creating unnecessary work and hardship in the process. He was always responsive and really listened to my concerns and goals and worked towards achieving them. Got a great result for me!
    - Ruth Z.
    "Received excellent counsel representation during my military divorce."
    Consummate professionals! Received excellent counsel representation during my military divorce. I highly recommend their services
    - Devin B.
    "He is very knowledgeable with military law and what my rights are as a active duty military member."
    The life experience that I am going thru right now is extremely tough! Being an active duty military member and going thru a divorce is something I don't wish on anyone, but having these guys on your side, especially Nelson Cutter makes the process much less painful. He is very knowledgeable with military law and what my rights are as a active duty military member. Thank you!
    - Charles N.
    "Matthew Lax made the experience of going thru a very difficult divorce very smooth."
    Matthew Lax made the experience of going thru a very difficult divorce very smooth and he was so knowledgeable and helpful and always available for any problems. He got me a very generous settlement that I didn't expect. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
    - Sally L.
    "I was especially impressed with his control and approach in the courtroom."
    He very knowledgeable about the law and was able to give me his opinion through his experience with the law and the courtroom. He was patient in explaining the positives and negatives of the legal pursuits, along with the risks. I was especially impressed with his control and approach in the courtroom. He was direct, to the point, and would not back down. He won't let go. He is excellent at arguing the law and questioning witnesses.
    - Former Client
    "Matthew Lax and his partner are very good attorneys and when going through something as unpleasant as a divorce, it's good to have them on your side!"
    Cutter & Lax is a great law firm. I have a lot of family and friends that are satisfied clients. The Encino office is conveniently located and you are always greeted with a friendly smile. Matthew Lax and his partner are very good attorneys and when going through something as unpleasant as a divorce, it's good to have them on your side!
    - Ely G.
    "The lawyers at Cutter & Lax, specifically Matthew Lax, are very intelligent, decisive and thorough when it comes to caring for their clients."
    Throughout my whole experience working with this firm, I always felt welcomed, comforted and supported. The lawyers at Cutter & Lax, specifically Matthew Lax, are very intelligent, decisive and thorough when it comes to caring for their clients. This is the only firm I would ever feel comfortable returning to when a situation presented itself. All around fantastic experience and outcome!
    - Danielle A.