What is a legal separation agreement?
A legal separation agreement is a contract between two spouses in the state of Washington who have decided to live apart but remain legally married. It outlines the rights and obligations of each spouse during the separation period and helps establish the legal framework for the couple’s financial affairs, such as the division of property and debts, alimony, child custody and child support. The agreement also specifies how much each spouse would pay in legal fees and other costs associated with the separation. Furthermore, the agreement can stipulate that other terms and conditions be in effect during the separation, such as prohibitions against harassment or changes to existing insurance policies. In Washington, the agreement may be written or oral and it needs to be in accordance with the laws of the state. It is important to note that a legal separation agreement may not be used to change certain aspects of the marriage that require a legal divorce such as changing a joint will or cancelling health insurance. Moreover, legal separation agreements may be temporary or permanent, depending on the particular situation. It is strongly recommended to consult with a lawyer in order to have the agreement reviewed and ensure that it is legally binding and enforceable.
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