Many who are considering divorce wonder if a trial physical separation will provide the needed space to decide whether the marriage is salvageable or not before moving forward. It is sometimes hard to imagine what life will be like after divorcing a spouse, so a trial separation may help provide needed clarity.
If you are considering a separation of more than a few months, it is important to protect yourself financially. While it may seem like an informal arrangement on the surface, it is highly recommended that you consult an experienced divorce attorney to draw up a legally binding separation agreement that spells out the terms under which you will live apart while still legally married.
A legal separation agreement may include provisions for spousal support, child support and parenting time arrangements, specify how marital property will be used or kept by each spouse during the period of separation, how expenses or debt will be paid and much more. A legal separation agreement is absolutely critical to avoid potential financial problems down the road.
Because you and your spouse may decide to move forward with a divorce after separating, it is important to get up to speed on the marital finances before taking any action of course. You should know and have documentation regarding earnings, expenditures, investments, assets and the like before separating. It is also important to close joint accounts and obtain credit cards in your own name to avoid responsibility for debt accrued during the period of separation.
Even if you are hoping to reconcile with your spouse, be aware that your husband or wife may be preparing for a divorce. Be mindful of your spending and try to save money during your separation in the event you and your spouse decide to divorce. If it is clear that the marriage is over, do not linger in separation limbo. Make it legal and get going with your life – powerful and positive.
Contact an Illinois Legal Separation Agreement Lawyer
If you have questions regarding an Illinois legal separation agreements, contact the Libertyville Illinois Family Law Offices of Ronald L. Bell & Associates P.C at 847-495-6000 for more information today.