Unlike a divorce, a legal separation does not mean the end of your marriage; it simply means that you and your spouse choose to live separate lives while remaining legally married.
What Is a Legal Separation?
A legal separation intends to work out an agreement and/or court order for things like the division of your assets, child custody, visitation, and support.
This court order aims to protect your interests until you reconcile, file for divorce, or the death of either party.
A legal separation is not a prerequisite for obtaining a divorce. However, if the decision to divorce is made down the road, a judge may decide that since you were satisfied with your legal separation agreement, the same arrangement should carry over to the divorce settlement agreement.
Related Reading: Legal Separation Versus Divorce: An In-Depth Look