Divorce vs. Separation - What’s the Difference and What’s Right for You in Utah

In 2021, Utah had a divorce rate of 3.3%, reflecting a steady nationwide decline in divorces over the past decade. Despite this trend, many Utah couples still face the difficult decision of ending or redefining their marriage. If you’re in Utah and considering a major change in your relationship, you typically have two legal options – separation or divorce.

While they may sound similar, separation and divorce are not the same. Each option carries unique legal, financial, and personal implications. Choosing the right path depends on your circumstances, values, and goals. As leading divorce attorneys in Utah, we understand how overwhelming these decisions can feel, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Let’s explore the key differences between divorce and separation and help you decide what’s best for you and your family.

What is Divorce in Utah?

Divorce is the legal end of a marriage. Once finalized, both you and your ex are free to remarry and move forward with your lives separately. In Utah, filing for divorce requires meeting specific legal requirements and going through several steps.

This may include:

Residency Requirements: If you want to file for divorce, at least one of you must have lived in Utah for three months. For divorces involving minor children, you must live in the county for six months.

Filing a Petition: One of you can file a divorce petition with the court. This document outlines key details about your marriage, assets, children, and reasons for divorce.

Division of Assets: Utah follows an equitable distribution rule, meaning assets and debts are divided fairly but not necessarily equally.

Child Custody and Support: Utah courts prioritize the child’s best interests. Parenting plans, visitation schedules, and child support are set based on various factors like stability and financial needs.

Waiting Period: Utah law imposes a 30-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. This allows couples time to reflect or attempt reconciliation.

While the terms legal separation and divorce are used interchangeably, divorce is permanent. Once completed, it cuts all legal ties between you and your ex, except for obligations like alimony or child support.

What is Legal Separation in Utah?

Legal separation, also called separate maintenance, allows couples to live apart while remaining legally married. Unlike divorce, separation doesn’t end your marriage. This option may suit you if you need space or want to work through issues without getting a divorce.

Here’s how legal separation works in Utah:

Separate Maintenance Order: Similar to a divorce petition, you can file for separate maintenance. This document addresses property division, custody, and support while you’re separated.

Living Apart: Couples can live in different residences but remain legally married.

Legal Rights Intact: Since the marriage isn’t dissolved, you retain certain benefits like health care coverage, tax filing status, and inheritance rights.

As it is temporary, many Utah couples try legal separation before divorce. However, only 10-15% of couples reconcile after they separate. In Utah, some couples choose to remain separated long-term if they don’t want a divorce for religious, financial, or personal reasons.

Understand Key Differences Between Divorce and Separation

While you may hear both legal separation and divorce interchangeably, they are not the same. Here are the key differences between the two:

Marital Status: Divorce legally ends your marriage, while separation keeps it intact.
Remarriage: After a divorce, you can remarry. However, separation does not afford you this luxury.
Financial Benefits: Divorce ends shared benefits like health insurance, while separation may allow you to retain them.
Property Division: Divorce permanently divides your assets and debts, but separation creates a temporary arrangement.
Religious or Personal Beliefs: If your religious or ethical values oppose divorce, separation might be your only choice.

Separation Vs. Divorce: Which Is Right for You

Choosing between legal separation and divorce is, of course, a personal decision. Since both options have legal, financial, and emotional implications, you must understand which is the best choice for your family and future.

Here’s a quick round of when you should choose legal separation or divorce.

When Should You Choose Divorce

Divorce might be the best choice if:

You’re Ready to Move On: If the relationship is beyond repair and both you and your spouse want to live separate lives, divorce offers a clean break.
No Religious Barriers: Some faiths oppose divorce, but for others, it may align with their views. If it aligns with yours, you can file for a divorce.
Clear Financial Independence: Divorce ensures you are legally responsible only for your own future debts and assets. This means you would want to plan and protect your finances.
Future Planning: If you plan to remarry or want to avoid entanglements, divorce is the way to go.

H2: When Should You Choose Separation

Separation may be the right fit if:

You Need Time: Sometimes, you aren’t ready to divorce but need physical and emotional space to figure things out. That’s when legal separation can seem like a better option.
Religious or Ethical Beliefs: If divorce conflicts with your religious values, separation allows you to live apart without ending your marriage.
Financial Considerations: With legal separation, you can continue to enjoy benefits like shared health insurance, which are often lost after a divorce.
Children’s Stability: Unlike divorce, legal separation can be less disruptive for children, as the family unit technically remains intact.

Choosing What’s Right for You

Every situation is unique. If your marriage is facing challenges, take time to consider your options. Divorce provides closure and independence, while separation offers flexibility and a chance to reconcile or take a step back without ending the marriage.

Whatever you decide, don’t forget to speak with a skilled divorce attorney in Utah. They can help you make an informed decision and provide the support required to navigate the complex legal system. You may also want to speak with a marriage counselor to see if you can avoid taking an extreme step like divorce.

Conclusion

Utah courts treat legal separation and divorce seriously. Judges review financial disclosures, custody agreements, and property arrangements carefully to ensure fairness. Whatever you decide, you’ve got to think this through since both decisions will change your life forever.

At Henriksen & Henriksen, we can provide you with all the legal support you need. Schedule your consultation today!