If a marital relationship is suffering difficulties, then some couples may opt for a separation. This separation can take many forms, but most fall into three categories: Informal, Formal, and Legal.
An Informal Separation is when a couple agrees to live apart. This decision is not reduced to writing, usually involves one person moving out of the marital home, and does not involve attorneys or the courts. With counseling, there may be a reconciliation. Or one person, after experiencing separated living, may wish to formalize the separation or file for a divorce.
A Formal Separation usually involves the consultation of an attorney, but not the courts. It is the same as an Informal Separation; however, there is a contract signed by the parties to agree to the terms of the separation. The Separation Contract may include terms of custody, parenting time, support, who pays which bills, who retains which pieces of furniture, who drives which automobile, etc.
A Legal Separation is similar to the Formal Separation, but it involves the courts. Legal Separation is usually sought by people who, for religious or moral reasons, do not want a divorce. It is the same as a divorce in every way except that the bonds of matrimony are not dissolved.