Is Legal Separation the Same as Divorce?

Is Legal Separation the Same as Divorce?Are you planning to end your marriage and looking into different ways to do so? If that is the case, you might have stumbled upon the idea of a legal separation and find yourself wondering if that is the same thing as a divorce. Ending a marriage can be complicated, but the good news is that we are here to help. Keep reading to learn more about divorce options and how Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP can help you through the process.

Is a legal separation the same as divorce?

No. A legal separation is not the same thing as a divorce. A legal separation does not end a marriage, whereas a divorce does. That being said, there are some similarities between a legal separation and a divorce. In both situations, the spouses will live apart and there will be court orders issued regarding child custody, child support, and spousal support.

Can I get an annulment?

Annulments are an option in California, but only if you can prove that the marriage was never legal and valid in the first place. To do this, you will need to meet one of the following criteria:

  • Incest: The parties are related by blood
  • Bigamy: One of the individuals is already married
  • Age: One of the individuals is not above the age of consent
  • Unsound Mind: A party has a mental condition that prevents them from understanding the nature and duties of marriage
  • Fraud: One party perpetrated fraud to obtain the other’s consent to marriage
  • Force: An individual was forced into the marriage against their will

If you are eligible for an annulment, contact us for assistance!

Do I need to hire an attorney to handle my divorce case?

While you can technically handle the divorce process on your own, there are many nuances to consider. Plus, in the long run, it can actually end up costing you more if you do not have an attorney to assist with the process. Many decisions that are made throughout the process are legally binding and can have a big impact on both your life and your finances.

If you need help with a divorce case, contact Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP today.

Are you looking for help ending your marriage? If so, Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP is here to help. We have over 30 years of experience handling all types of divorce and legal separation cases. You can always rest assured that we will fight tirelessly to ensure that you get the best outcome possible for your divorce or legal separation. If you are ready to move forward, contact us today at 909-482-1422 to schedule an initial consultation to discuss your case.

To learn more about the reliable and quality family law services that we offer, visit us on the web at Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell..