Legal Separation

There are situations where it might be more advisable for parties in a marriage to consider legal separation rather than filing for divorce. Whether for religious, financial or emotional reasons, legal separation can sometimes offer benefits that are not available after a divorce. Legal Separation also creates risks that must be considered. When a marriage or domestic partnership is ending, it is important to consider every possible solution, including legal separation, to account for all of the different aspects of the relationship. This includes property division, child custody, child support, spousal support and other aspects that are associated with divorce and marriage dissolution.

At the law firm of Stephen P. Eaton, Attorney at Law, we provide clients with experienced counsel and representation in divorce, legal separation and other family law matters. Our approach is to give our clients as much information as possible and to help them make responsible and educated decisions about their family law issues. We will advise clients about whether or not it makes sense to pursue legal separation instead of filing for divorce, and we will help them through the process once those choices have been made.

If you would like more information about legal separation in New Mexico, contact us and speak with attorney Stephen Eaton about your family law matters.

Issues in Legal Separation

The issues that are dealt with in legal separation are very similar to the issues that must be resolved in a divorce. These items may include:

  • Child custody and visitation rights
  • Child support
  • Alimony and spousal support
  • Property and debt division
  • Health, dental and life insurance benefits
  • Income taxes
  • Spouses’ right to live separately
  • Expenses related to the child or children
  • Decisions about children, including education and religion

We can help you design a legal separation agreement that will work for you and your spouse. Your legal separation agreement should also be drafted so that it can translate into a divorce agreement if such action becomes necessary. Legal separation may help you and your spouse preserve the ability for reconciliation or it could make the process of divorce more efficient when reconciliation is not a possibility.

Contact Experienced Family Lawyer Stephen P. Eaton

Legal separation may be the right option for you. Contact us at Stephen P. Eaton, Attorney at Law if you are considering a divorce but want to know all of your options. Call us in Albuquerque at 505-837-9200. We accept all major credit cards.