Minneapolis Legal Separation Attorneys

Helping Clients in Minnesota Get Through This Process with Dignity

A legal separation is a process that is similar to a divorce, but is not quite the same. While a legal separation does not end a marriage, it often serves as the first step toward a divorce. Our firm helps people in Minnesota navigate the legal process of a legal separation and divorce.

Our lawyers understand the many emotions that are involved when dealing with a separation or divorce, and we are sensitive to the impact it can have on you and your family. We work hard to minimize the stress and anxiety that often comes with these legal issues, and we do our best to help you reach an amicable resolution with your spouse.

Contact us at (866) 484-4079 to learn more about how we can help you.

The Legal Separation Process

Legal separations are very similar to divorces, but there are some key differences. One of the main differences is that in a divorce, the parties are no longer obligated to live together, while in a legal separation, they are required to continue to live together. Another difference is that during a legal separation, the parties may not legally remarry, while they may during a divorce.

In Minnesota, a legal separation can be granted by a judge if the following requirements are met:

• The spouses must agree that a legal separation is necessary
• The spouses must agree on how their property and debts will be divided if they don't wish to remain married
• The spouses must agree on how their children will be cared for, educated, and supported if they don't wish to remain married

If you and your spouse cannot agree on these issues, then you will need to file for a divorce. If you are considering a legal separation from your spouse, we can help you determine what your options are and how to proceed.

Judicial Separations vs. Legal Separations

While a legal separation does not end a marriage, it does create a legal separation of the parties. In some cases, a couple may want to pursue a judicial separation, which is a legal separation that is decided by a judge. A judicial separation is often granted when one spouse has committed extreme cruelty against the other spouse, or if one spouse is abusing drugs or alcohol.

Judicial separations can also be granted in situations where one spouse is found to be physically or mentally incapacitated so that they cannot manage their own affairs, or if one spouse is convicted of a felony. A judicial separation can be granted if the spouses cannot agree on issues such as:

• Child support or custody
• Spousal support
• Property division

A judicial separation does not end a marriage, but it does allow the parties to legally separate from each other and stop sharing a household. Legal separations and judicial separations are often the first step toward a divorce.

How Long Does a Legal Separation Take?

It depends on the specific situation. Some legal separations can be finalized in as few as three weeks, while others can take several months. It all depends on the circumstances of the case. We can help you determine how long it will likely take to finalize your legal separation.

Ready for Legal Separation? Contact Our Minneapolis Attorneys Now

At Sobol Family Law, we understand that getting a legal separation is often the first step toward a divorce. We can help you navigate the legal process, and we can help you minimize the stress and anxiety that comes with such a difficult decision.

Contact us at (866) 484-4079 to learn more about how we can help.