What is the difference between a legal separation and a divorce?

A legal separation and a divorce both involve the end of a marriage, but there are some key differences that should be noted. In Maryland, a legal separation is a court-ordered arrangement that is designed to give both parties a chance to determine if the marriage should end in a divorce or continue. It allows couples to live separately while still being legally married and provides a way to protect each person’s rights and interests in the event of a divorce. In comparison, a divorce is the permanent end of a marriage and cannot be reversed. It establishes that each partner is legally free to move on and start a new life without the other party. In a divorce, a court may make decisions on the division of property and the status of any children from the marriage. In Maryland, a legal separation is much simpler than getting a divorce in terms of the process and paperwork. To secure a divorce, the couple must prove that the marriage is irretrievably broken down. This requires extensive legal paperwork, a lengthy court process, and possibly a trial. In contrast, with a legal separation, couples are only required to attend one hearing. Therefore, the difference between a legal separation and a divorce in Maryland is that a legal separation is a temporary arrangement that allows both parties to determine if the marriage should end in a divorce, whereas a divorce is a permanent arrangement that ends the marriage and establishes new rights and responsibilities for the parties involved.

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