Your Trusted Attorney for Legal Separation in Knoxville
For some Tennessee couples, divorce may not be the best option for personal, legal, or financial reasons. In these cases, pursuing a legal separation might be the most practical and sensible solution. It’s essential to discuss your situation with a compassionate, experienced family law attorney who can help you explore your options and determine the most suitable path forward.
At the Law Office of Lisa Collins Werner in Knoxville, we assist clients with various family law matters, including divorce, child custody, and child support. While legal separation is less common today than it once was, it can still be the right choice for certain circumstances.
Legal Separation vs. Divorce: Key Similarities and Differences
Choosing legal separation can put you in a position similar to that of divorce, with a few key differences. Though the marriage remains legally intact during a separation, spouses cannot remarry. This leaves individuals in a kind of “holding pattern”—living apart but still legally married.
A legal separation decree can address many of the same issues as a divorce decree, including financial arrangements, spousal support, and child custody arrangements. In fact, the separation decree is so similar that, after two years, either party can request a divorce based on the terms established in the separation agreement. During the separation, either spouse has the right to file for divorce at any time. In this way, legal separation can either serve as an alternative to divorce or act as a transitional phase before making a final decision to divorce.
Consult with an Experienced Family Law Attorney About Your Separation or Divorce
If you’re considering a legal separation and want to understand its implications, it’s important to consult with an attorney who can provide clear guidance. Call the Law Office of Lisa Collins Werner today at 865-565-1068 or send us your contact information to get started. Serving Knoxville and the surrounding East Tennessee area, we are here to help you make the best decisions for your future.