LEGAL SEPARATION Meaning and
Definition
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Legal separation is a legal process through which a married couple may choose to live separate and apart while still remaining legally married. It involves a court-ordered arrangement determining the rights and obligations of the spouses while they are living apart. In some jurisdictions, legal separation requires the issuance of a court decree or a legal agreement, while in others it may be an informal arrangement.
During a legal separation, spouses are granted physical and legal separation, which means they live separately and make independent decisions regarding their finances, property, and child custody, among other matters. This separation provides an alternative to divorce for couples who may not wish to terminate their marital status due to personal, religious, financial, or other reasons.
Legal separation addresses various important issues, such as spousal support or maintenance, child custody, visitation rights, division of property and debts, and child support. These matters are typically addressed through a separation agreement negotiated between the spouses or by a court ruling. The terms of a legal separation are legally binding and can be enforced by the court.
Importantly, legal separation differs from divorce in that the couple continues to be legally married even though they live apart. This means they are still eligible for certain benefits that are exclusive to married couples, such as tax advantages, health insurance coverage, and social security benefits.
Legal separation can provide couples with the opportunity to evaluate their relationship, try living apart, and potentially reconcile. However, should they choose to divorce in the future, the legal separation may serve as the basis for divorce proceedings.
Common Misspellings for LEGAL SEPARATION
- kegal separation
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- legql separation
Etymology of LEGAL SEPARATION
The term "legal separation" stems from the combination of the words "legal" and "separation". Here's a breakdown of each component:
1. Legal: This term originates from the Latin word "legalis", which comes from "lex" meaning "law". It refers to something being in accordance with the law or established rules.
2. Separation: This word comes from the Latin word "separatio", which is derived from "separare". "Separare" is a combination of "se" meaning "apart" and "parare" meaning "prepare" or "arrange". Thus, "separation" suggests the action of setting or putting things apart.
Combining these two terms, "legal separation" refers to a legally recognized arrangement in which a married couple decides to live apart while still remaining legally married.
