Bristol County Separation Attorney

Professional Taunton Divorce Lawyers for Spouses in Bristol & Plymouth County, MA

Not everyone is ready to jump straight into divorce when the going gets tough. If you want some time apart to collect your thoughts about whether you want to move forward with a divorce or attempt to reconcile with your partner, you can request a separate support action in Bristol & Plymouth County, Massachusetts. 

The Law Offices of Rachel M. Matos can help you petition for legal separation and make sure your spousal and parental rights are not being infringed upon during the period of separation.

Learn more about what a separate support action does and how you can file for one in Bristol  County and Plymouth County, MA. Reach out to the Law Offices of Rachel M. Matos to get started.

How to Get a Legal Separation in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts doesn't have a legal separation process.

However, couples who want to live apart but aren't ready for divorce can file for Separate Support.

One reason they may seek a court-ordered separate support action is so the court can help implement a scheme for child support, parenting plans, and alimony during that separation period.

This is a lawsuit to get support for themselves and their family. It can also prevent a spouse from limiting their freedom.

Any spouse may file for support if:

• their partner has failed to support them;
• their spouse has deserted them;
• both spouses are living separately for a “justifiable cause”; or
• both spouses have a “justifiable cause” to live apart.

Filing for Separate Support in Massachusetts

To file a request for separate support in Massachusetts, the petitioner must be a resident in the state, living apart from their spouse, and have a justifiable legal reason for the request. Once the court has approved the request, they will create a parenting plan, child support orders, and spousal support orders during the legal process for separate support. 

The court can also decide which spouse may reside in the marital home during the separation, but concrete property division matters may only be handled in a divorce.

During the separate support hearing, the spouses will agree to a separation agreement. This is a legal contract between the spouses that specifies certain provisions they must follow during their separation. Both spouses must sign the separation agreement and present it to the court for approval if it is fair and reasonable to both parties.

Our family law attorneys in Plymouth County and Bristol County are dedicated to helping families with their legal matters. Clients depend on our legal team to care for them with fantastic care and concern concerning their separation cases. Call our Taunton law firm to learn more about separation and how it may apply to your family circumstances.