Understanding Separation—An Important Aspect of Divorce Planning

Separation is one of those words that people use all of the time without necessarily knowing what it actually means. Most commonly, people use the word to describe when one spouse leaves and lives on their own. This is just one kind of separation that exists under California law. Under this scenario, the date on which the spouse left often has important ramifications for issues such as spousal support. Specifically, when courts calculate spousal support under California law, they start with the presumption that spousal support is owed for half the length of the marriage. Most commonly, for purposes of this calculation, the marriage begins on the wedding day and ends on the date of physical separation. This is just a starting for point for calculating spousal support; many of other factors will influence how much, if any, is owed. And this is just one example why knowing about separation will help you understand your situation more fully and, if necessary, plan better for a divorce.

Since 1994, we have been helping men and women throughout Southern California plan effectively for separation and divorce.

To learn more about separation and how it may impact you, please contact Evan T. Sussman at evan@sussmanlawfirm.com or call us at 310.288.1990.