Getting a Trial Separation Without Leaving Your Home

If your marriage isn’t in a good place, you may immediately think of divorce, but you don’t really have to go that far just yet. But if you have tried counseling, to no avail, then you may want to consider a trial separation.

Unlike most other states, Florida does not recognize a legal separation. However, this does not mean that you cannot separate from your spouse without divorce. You can still go through a trial separation and you can even do it from the comfort of your own home.

That’s right, you and your spouse can “separate” but stay in the same home. This is the ideal option for those who need some space in their marriage but cannot afford to move out. Or maybe you have young children and don’t want them to be without one parent.

But how can you truly keep your lives separate while in the same space? It may seem impossible, but it can be done. Here’s what you need to know.

Set the Rules

When separating under the same roof, you’ll need to set ground rules. For example, there will be no arguing for a certain amount of time. You also need to set physical and emotional boundaries. Will you sleep in separate rooms? Will you be allowed to see other people? Will there be intimacy? How will you share vehicles? Also, what is the end goal? Will you possibly be getting back together or is divorce the outcome you desire?

Create Structure

With both of you in the same home, there needs to be an established routine. Will you two still be communicating with each other? Will you still be spending time together? Get an idea of what your day-to-day life will look like.

Be Mindful of the Children

How will you be presenting your separation to the children? WIll you be a united front or making decisions separately? If you will be united, you should continue with the same schedules and routines. Be sensitive to how your separation will affect the children.

Set a Timeline and Let Life Happen

How long will the separation last? A good few months will be enough time to decide if you should stay together or split up.

At the end of the separation period, discuss the outcome with your spouse. This trial separation should give you an idea of whether you prefer to stay married or be single and have more freedom.

Seek Legal Help

A separation does not necessarily mean living apart. You can attempt one in your home, but it takes some planning, rules, and structure.

Whether you live in the same home or apart, a trial separation can either improve your marriage or cement your decision to divorce. Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer Edward J. Jennings, P.A. can give you the legal advice you need to make a decision and move on. To schedule a consultation, call 954-764-4330 or fill out the online form.

Source:

marriage.com/advice/separation/how-to-have-a-trial-separation-in-the-same-house/