Attorney’s Role in a Legal Separation
The role an attorney plays during the legal separation process is exactly the same as the process an attorney follows during divorce proceedings. Both parties must have their own counsel; an attorney cannot fairly represent both spouses in a separation agreement. Both types of processes also end with similar orders, and both people have to agree the process will end in separation rather than divorce. If at any point in the process one of the parties in a legal separation decides to pursue a divorce, then the process moves towards divorce proceedings.
Sometimes people have reasons they want to start with legal separation but convert later to a divorce. They may choose to do this based on how the other person might react, changing feelings over time, or other circumstances. A family law attorney is there every step of the way during the legal separation process and is prepared to counsel people through to serve their best interest in a way that makes sense for their case.
Legal Separation in Colorado
There are a number of reasons a couple might pursue a legal separation rather than a divorce.
Reasons a legal separation is often considered include:
- Couple does not feel the marriage is working out and wants to allocate financial obligations, assets, parenting time, or alimony and leave open the possibility of reconciliation.
- Religious beliefs prevent the couple from divorcing.
- The couple may have a vested interest in keeping benefits like health insurance the same but cannot foresee the relationship continuing in the way it has in the past.
Legal Separation vs. Divorce
Although many people assume that a legal separation is a step toward this is often not the case, as it is its own legal proceeding with a process that looks much like the one followed for divorce. For example, legal separations start with a decree of legal separation that shows you are no longer married but you are also not divorced. Think of legal separation not as a path through divorce, but a different destination entirely.
Other changes that take place in a legal separation include:
- You no longer have/acquire shared property; the property amassed after a separation is yours alone.
- The length of marriage stops (for alimony) but some federal benefits/insurance continue if you are separated. (These benefits would have stopped if there was a divorce.) This may be beneficial if you or your children would like to be covered by Tricare.
Set up an initial consultation with our office today. Discuss your case with our Colorado Springs Lawyers at
(719) 212-2448 or complete our contact form.
Legal Separation Colorado Springs
Divorce & Family Law Attorneys in Colorado
Legal separations come with no expectation for the couple to reconcile. If you wanted, you could be separated indefinitely. However, you cannot get remarried so long as the decree of legal separation. Additionally, in Colorado, once you enter into a legal separation, you can file for dissolution after 6 months.
When entering into a legal separation, it is advisable to have an experienced family law attorney provide guidance during the process. The team at the Gasper Law Group provides families throughout Colorado Springs, El Paso County, and the surrounding area with knowledgeable representation they can trust. We understand the nuances of the law and can give you peace of mind as you work through the steps of filing a legal separation or other legal documents relative to family law.
Contact a Legal Separation Attorney in Colorado Springs
If you are considering a legal separation and have questions, contact Gasper Law Group’s divorce lawyers in Colorado Springs for a free consultation. We will answer your questions and discuss next steps to file a legal separation in Colorado.
-
The Gasper Law Group took great care of me throughout my legal situation and constantly kept me in the loop. Couldn't ask for better representation!- Ryan L.
-
I, unfortunately, was involved with two separate situations within a few years of each other, which left me in quite a bind both times. I was lucky enough to have Caryn assist me in both cases and was absolutely floored with the knowledge and expertise that not only she carries, but the firm as a whole. One of the best, if not the best lawyers I've ever come across. Extremely nice and very honest. I was able to resolve my situations with minimal impact and continue my life without fear of being held back.- Former Client
-
I’m not one to have an extensive experience with law firms or lawyers and court in general. However, the professionalism, guidance, and candor I’ve received from each person in this law firm have been beyond reproach. Anytime, I mean, anytime, I’ve had a question about my case and the way forward, I was met with a friendly and constructive conversation about my case. There was never a doubt in my mind, that I made the right choice when I selected this law firm to represent me. Caryn and Stacie have been a wonderful blessing to my life and my legal proceedings. If you are looking for a no-BS law firm that has a significant reputation in the Springs area, I absolutely recommend this one. Even though I hope to not have to deal with this again, fingers crossed and every lucky charm, I’d trust this law firm with my representation to handle the hard stuff and give me ease with court proceedings. Thank you all for what you do and have done for me, my family, and my career. Bless you all.
- Steve S. -
Christine, Kris, and Ebony are amazing and compassionate. We enjoyed every interaction. Gasper Law firm keeps appropriate communication and not in excess which keeps our cost low. We are so very grateful. Even if an unexpected turn in our guardianship hearing they remained diligent to ensure things were done in a timely manner. Thank you so much! You helped complete our family and we are forever grateful.- Misty M.
-
Gasper Law Group is great to work with. I recently did Estate Planning and they were awesome. Explained everything thoroughly. Emily, Jack, Therese , Holly, and Emily are all very professional. If you need any Legal advice or assistance reach out to the Gasper Law Group. 5 star service.- Ruby D.
-
Caryn Adams, Stacey Sadler and the rest of the team at the Gasper law group are an amazing, courteous, compassionate, and very helpful group of talented individuals. I was in a bind and during my consultation I explained my situation and they went above and beyond my expectations. They took care of my case in a very timely manner and made it feel like my traffic ticket was their number one and only priority. I have never been treated with such respect and compassion. I definitely recommend talking to them about any of your legal needs.- Scott R.
-
I don't write many reviews! Gasper Law Group proved to be worthy of my highest recommendation. Everyone at some time will need some legal service, but where to go. I want you to know Gasper Law Group can help you save what you might stand to lose. I really want you to know Christine S. is the finest Family Law Attorney you will find. Christine is experienced, committed to her clients, and will help save what whats most important to you. I would so like the leadership of Gasper Law Group to know how fortunate they are to have a team member of her Caliber. If you need legal help use Gasper, and ask for Christine I am thankful I did!!!- Eric D.
-
The Gasper Law Group was fantastic. They treated me well and were very open about my situation. The team was attentive and made sure I fully understood everything, supporting me all the way. I would recommend them to anyone for any situation.- Jason E.