Providing Experienced Legal Advice for Separating Couples
In Ohio, changing the status of your marriage does not always mean divorce. Couples in troubled marriages may not feel ready to face the finality of divorce for legal, religious, or financial reasons.
Fox & Associates, Co., L.P.A. understands. Our Dayton divorce law firm has successfully represent many clients for legal separation agreements in Montgomery County and surrounding areas.
Possible reasons for legal separation in Ohio include:
- Residency requirements: Ohio requires a six-month minimum residency for divorce filings. Legal separation has no time residency requirements. Upon meeting the six-month requirement, you may file for divorce if that is your goal.
- A preliminary step: You may not feel prepared for the finality of divorce and use legal separation as a preliminary step toward divorce. However, if you ultimately decide on divorce, the courts require a separate filing for the divorce action.
- Religious or personal reasons: Divorce may not be an option for personal or religious reasons, but continued cohabitation with your spouse is undesirable. Receiving continued financial support and responsibility from your spouse, and health insurance or other benefits may play a part in considering separation.
Dayton, Ohio attorney helping with separation agreements
To receive a legal separation in Ohio you must file in the Domestic Division or General Division of the court. After filing, you and your spouse enter into a separation agreement to address issues such as:
- Alimony
- Child custody
- Child support
- Property and debt division
The Ohio separation agreement definitively states your intention to live separately and acknowledges your incompatibility as marriage partners. Further, you agree not to harass or interfere with your spouse’s life and activities. As with divorce settlements, separation agreements are complex and cover a wide range of issues of daily life.
Fox & Associates, experienced divorce lawyers in Dayton, Ohio help navigate the details of a separation agreement and protect your rights and interests during a vulnerable time. If a separation agreement in unattainable with your spouse, the judge hears testimony, takes evidence, and decides for you.
Contact Our Divorce Law Firm in Dayton
Although in a legal separation you are still technically married, in many ways, a separation is like a divorce—emotional and often traumatic. Fox & Associates offers legal guidance and protects your rights. Contact us at 937-684-9362 for a consultation to discuss your separation issues today.