Crafting a Knoxville Separation Agreement

It is a sad fact that one in two American marriages end in divorce. While no couple ever expects their marriage to head for divorce, sometimes personal or financial marital problems just become insurmountable. At that juncture in the relationship, we encourage couples to seek advice about all their legal options before taking action.

One legal option that provides an alternative to jumping into divorce is separation. When there is a breakdown of the marriage, legal separation can give couples a port in the storm to sort out their differences and develop a workable plan that satisfies their on-going responsibilities of family life. With separation in Knoxville, you accomplish the same goals as a divorce with the exception of actually terminating the marriage.

Considering legal separation in Knoxville

The advantages to choosing legal separation in Knoxville rather than divorce include the following:

• Allows one spouse to continue covering the other on his or her health plan
• Leaves the door open to reconciliation
• Provides an alternative to divorce, which some couples consider morally objectionable or against their religious beliefs
• Allows for certain financial benefits and income tax advantages related to spousal support payments
• Creates a framework for dealing with household and childcare expenses and property division that is helpful when divorce is the next step 

Consult us about your separation rights and options

A legal separation is not required prior to filing for or getting a divorce, and if a couple is separated, it does not mean that a divorce must inevitably follow. People who choose to be legally separated often want the option for reconciliation to remain open or they are seeking to maintain a civil relationship with their partners.

A Knoxville separation agreement also tackles the issues typical of divorce such as the following:

• Child custody and visitation arrangements
• Use or ownership of shared property, such as the house and cars
• Access to joint bank and retirement accounts and other financial assets
• Spousal support, child support, and other financial provisions

At the law office of James R. LaFevor, we understand the laws pertaining to separation as well as divorce and we are committed to advising you of the best legal remedies for your unique situation.

If you have questions about divorce or separation law, or if you wish to work with a Knoxville divorce mediator, please call the Knoxville law office of James R. LaFevor today at 865-637-6258 or contact us online to arrange for an appointment.