Legal Separation
Legal separation (a judicial separation) is a formal court process that lets married couples or civil partners live apart without ending the marriage. It is suitable for those who don’t want a divorce due to personal, religious, or financial reasons. It does not free either party to remarry. It is especially helpful if you need space, want to live apart formally, or cannot divorce yet due to timing, faith, or uncertainty.
But it does not end financial or legal ties like divorce does. A legal consultation helps clarify if this route meets your needs.
But it does not end financial or legal ties like divorce does. A legal consultation helps clarify if this route meets your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
You apply to the court using Form D8 (same as divorce), stating that the relationship has broken down. Unlike divorce, you do not need to wait 12 months after marriage to apply, and you don’t need to prove fault. The process is similar to divorce but leads to separation, not legal dissolution.
A legal separation usually takes 3 to 6 months, depending on court workload and whether it’s contested. No mandatory reflection period is required, unlike the 20-week wait in divorce cases.
Legal separation allows couples to live apart without ending the marriage. Divorce permanently ends the marriage and allows remarriage. Separation may suit couples who have religious objections to divorce or wish to delay ending the marriage for emotional or financial reasons.
Thinking about divorce can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At AAGA Solicitors, we offer clear, compassionate legal guidance every step of the way. Start your no-fault divorce journey with confidence—speak to our family law experts today. Your clarity begins with a conversation.
