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3 ways to change your marital status

On Behalf of | Aug 20, 2022 | Family Law

Unfortunately, not all marriages last. Couples who want to separate can either legally separate or completely dissolve their marriage.

If you are thinking about divorce, you may want to consider which option is best for your future.

Annulment

A legal annulment of marriage makes it so that you and your spouse never married. Typically, grounds for annulment involve issues of consent. If you did not agree to the marriage, were under the influence during your marriage or were underage at the time of your marriage, you could request an annulment through the court system. You could also get your marriage annulled if, for example, your spouse did not inform you that they could not consummate the marriage.

Divorce

A divorce results in the termination of your marital status. You and your spouse will file for divorce, divide your marital property and determine how to handle child custody. If there is contention, you may have to progress through the court system. The main benefit of a divorce is that both you and your spouse can remarry in the future, but a divorce is a final decision.

Legal separation

A couple can undergo separation without getting legally separated by living in two different places. However, a legal separation follows the same steps as a divorce. After achieving a legal separation, you and your spouse are still legally married. Typically, this option is sufficient for couples who cannot divorce for religious purposes or want to maintain some of the benefits of marriage, such as shared insurance plans. If you legally separate but want to divorce in the future, you will have to start a new case.

Understanding the consequences of each type of change in marital status can help you figure out what is best for you and your family.