Long Island Mediators Draft Legal Separation Agreements
Dispute resolution for couples who choose not to divorce in Nassau & Suffolk Counties
There are many reasons why couples choose not to divorce even after their marriage seems to be over. One or both may be holding out hope of a reconciliation, they may have a religious objection to divorce, or they may need to stay married for government or employment benefits. For such couples, New York recognizes legal separation. When couples file a legal separation agreement, they receive an order from the court that protects their rights and enforces their responsibilities. They have all the benefits of a divorce, except that they are not free to remarry because their marriage is not completely dissolved. At Solutions Divorce Mediation, Inc., we help our clients reach a separation agreement through the mediation process so they can avoid costly, time-consuming litigation.
Reaching a legal separation agreement through mediation
The process of forging a legal separation agreement is largely the same as reaching a marital settlement agreement for an uncontested divorce. You and your spouse must resolve the same issues:
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Depending on your circumstances — number and ages of children, value of assets and debt, standard of living, work history, etc. — this can be a simple or complex mediation. Either way, our mediators have the tools to work effectively with you and deliver positive results.
The cost of mediation and the length of the process depend largely on the complexity of your circumstances and the willingness of both spouses to commit to the process. We have experienced and skilled mediators who inspire confidence from our clients and get them to “buy in” to the mediation process.
When you arrive at a legal separation agreement and it gets court approval, that agreement has the force of the law behind it. Failures to pay support, surrender property or abide by the parenting plan can result in court sanctions for contempt.
If your legal separation agreement proves manageable, it can be the basis for a marital settlement agreement later, should you and your spouse decide to fully dissolve your marriage with an uncontested divorce.
Let our divorce mediators in Nassau and Suffolk Counties help in your legal separation
If you and your spouse are planning to live apart, you should settle important issues with a legal separation agreement. Solutions Divorce Mediation, Inc. offers a collaborative, amicable alternative to litigation that can save you time and money. Call us at 1.631.683.8172 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Evening and weekend appointments are available, 7 days/week.