Should You Consider A Trial Separation Before Divorcing?

Divorce rates have been climbing amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Couples are getting sick of each other and many have decided to call it quits on their marriage.

It may be easy to just throw in the towel when your spouse starts annoying you, but should couples be giving up on their marriages that easily? After all, you vowed to love your husband or wife until death do you part. Are you doing your part to try to make things work despite the stress and frustration that the coronavirus pandemic has brought to your household?

Many people are ignoring their spouses. They may be spending more time in their garages, man caves or bedrooms.  Some are trying therapy. Many have turned to alcohol consumption. If you’re still struggling with your marriage and fresh out of ideas, here’s one thing to consider: a trial separation.

A trial separation is different from a legal separation or divorce. In a divorce, you and your spouse split everything and you are no longer married.  In a legal separation, you and your spouse split everything, but are still legally married.

In a trial separation, you and your spouse separate on your own terms. You may want to have a written agreement in place, as you will still be married. Either you or your spouse will move out, while one stays in the marital home. There is nothing to split up.  There are no legal agreements to deal with. You both just go your separate ways for a trial period.

You get a taste for what life would be like after divorce. You and your spouse spend time apart while working on marital issues. It allows you time to cool off so you’re not in each other’s faces constantly nagging and yelling. Maybe you just need time to yourself. After time, you may decide that you miss your spouse. You can set a length of time for the separation. After that, you can determine if you two can work things out or if a divorce is the better option. It helps prevent premature divorces and regret.

Keep in mind that during a trial separation, you are still married. The financial obligations are still there, so you will still need to work out who pays the bills. Anything you acquire during this time is considered marital property and is subject to split in a divorce. 

Seek Legal Help

Some people just need their space, and as the saying goes, absence makes the heart grow fonder. If you’re feeling smothered by your spouse — which is not uncommon during the COVID-19 pandemic — then a trial separation may just be the cure for your failing marriage.

If you’ve run out of options, though, and want to end your marriage now, get help from Fort Lauderdale divorce attorney Edward J. Jennings, P.A. We can offer you effective representation with compassion. We can also assist you with all matters regarding divorce. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call 954-764-4330.