There are many instances in which people wish to end their marriage but do not wish to file for divorce. While many states allow a spouse to file for “legal separation,” Florida does not. There are ways, however, to gain many of the same benefits of a legal separation through other means. Our Melbourne attorney assists residents of our state who wish to part ways with their spouse while remaining legally married. Contact our lawyer today for assistance with this process.
Melbourne lawyer assisting those who wish to separate from their spouse without filing for divorce
There are many reasons why one may wish to legally separate from their spouse. These reasons often include religious beliefs regarding divorce, the maintaining of health insurance, maintaining retirement benefits, or so the parties may engage in a trial separation. Florida, however, does not recognize the idea of a legal separation which means spouses who have split remain potentially liable for debt and acquired property following the separation. If you are separating from your spouse then it is important to have legal mechanisms in place which guard your interests and protect you from your spouse’s financial irresponsibility.
There are multiple ways in which spouses can separate and ensure that they are not financially responsible for one another. These include drafting a postnuptial agreement, preparing a separation agreement, or filing a Petition for Support. A postnuptial agreement or separation agreement can allow the spouses to live apart, will award property to each spouse, set spousal support (if any), and will keep future earnings, property, and debt separate. A Petition for Support allows a spouse to request alimony and child support if the other spouse has moved out of the marital residence, but the parties do not wish to proceed with a divorce. Such protections can be important for a simple reason – if the parties separate then property or debt acquired after the separation would otherwise be considered part of the marriage. By putting protections in place you help to protect your future.
Lindsey Gardner Shneyder is a Melbourne lawyer assisting those who wish to remain married to their spouse while having legal protections in place during a separation. She will immediately determine the reasons for your wishing to stay married and help you understand whether doing so is in your best interests. She will then work to identify all assets and debts and draft an agreement which will protect you going forward. Our firm will ensure that all issues are covered in the agreement so there are no “surprises” later down the road. Lindsey understands that this is a serious situation in your life and she will take it seriously. Contact our office to speak with an attorney.
We also service clients in the Brevard County cities of Titusville, Cocoa, Palm Bay, Grant, Valkaria, and Rockledge, as well as in the Indian River County areas of Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Orchid.
Affordable legal representation for Brevard County residents wishing to legally separate with their spouse
If you are considering a separation from your spouse then you are under a great deal of stress. Brevard County residents should not suffer additional aggravation when wondering how they will pay for their attorney. Lindsey offers legal representation in most matters for a flat fee. This means you will know what your case is going to cost and you will not be hit by a surprise bill each month. This will allow you to focus your funds on the important task of getting life back on track. Our firm focuses on the law so you may focus on the future.