Considering Legal Separation? Our Ohio Family Law Attorneys Can Help
Our Ohio legal separation attorneys will help you understand how the process works, what it means for your rights, and how to structure an agreement that supports your long-term goals.
Our Ohio legal separation attorneys will help you understand how the process works, what it means for your rights, and how to structure an agreement that supports your long-term goals.
Legal Separation Guidance When Divorce Isn’t the Right Step
Ohio offers three main legal options for married couples: divorce, dissolution, and legal separation. Unlike divorce or dissolution, legal separation does not end your marriage. Instead, it allows the court to issue binding orders about finances, children, and property while the legal marriage remains intact.
At Slater & Zurz, we represent clients in a wide range of legal separation scenarios, including:
- Spouses who do not yet meet Ohio’s 6-month residency requirement for divorce
- Couples who wish to separate for religious or cultural reasons
- Partners hoping to reconcile but needing legal boundaries in the meantime
- Individuals seeking to maintain tax, healthcare, or retirement benefits
- Parents who want to create structure and stability for their children
- Cases involving disputes over property, spousal support, or custody during separation
Why Ohioans Turn to Slater & Zurz’s Legal Separation Lawyers
For over 30 years, our legal separation attorneys have helped families navigate life’s most important transitions.
- Talk directly to family law attorneys who care
- 6 offices across Ohio
- Step-by-step guidance and full transparency
What Does Legal Separation Involve?
A legal separation follows a process similar to divorce. Even though the marriage stays intact, the court can issue final orders on:
- Division of property and debts
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support
- Spousal support (alimony)
- Parenting responsibilities
- Health and life insurance coverage
These orders are legally binding and enforceable, just like those in a divorce. Our attorneys will help you negotiate or litigate terms that reflect your interests and protect your future.
Do Both Spouses Have to Agree to a Legal Separation?
Not necessarily. One spouse can file for legal separation even if the other doesn’t agree. However, if the responding spouse wants a divorce instead, they can file a counterclaim for divorce, at which point the case proceeds as a divorce rather than a separation.
If both parties agree to stay married but want court intervention on financial and parental matters, legal separation can be a constructive and less final alternative.
Can I Still Get Spousal Support During a Legal Separation?
Yes. The court may issue spousal support (alimony) orders during legal separation proceedings, just as it would in a divorce. The amount and duration depend on factors like income disparity, length of the marriage, and each spouse’s financial and physical condition.
If support is important to maintaining stability during your legal separation, we’ll help make a strong case for it.
After an accident or life-changing event, you need more than legal paperwork — you need someone in your corner. Our attorneys listen, guide, and fight for clients as if the case were their own.
That commitment is why people across Ohio continue to turn to Slater & Zurz when the stakes are high.
What Happens When You Call Slater & Zurz
You’ll talk to an attorney
We know this is a difficult process, and the last thing you need is to be bounced around. When you call us, you’ll speak to one of our Ohio child custody and support lawyers.
We’ll take the pressure off your plate
From filing the initial petition to negotiating terms, we’re by your side through the entire legal process.
You only pay if we move forward together
Initial consultations are always free. If we move forward, you’ll know exactly what to expect when it comes to fees.
We know you’re hurting, and the last thing you need is to be bounced around. When you call us, you’ll speak to one of our experienced attorneys.
From day one, we’ll gather medical records, file the proper reports, and deal with insurance companies on your behalf. In other words, you focus on getting better, and we’ll handle the fight.
We've recovered millions for injury victims across Ohio. We don’t stop at quick settlements; instead, we push for full accountability and compensation that reflects what you’ve really lost.
No upfront fees means there’s zero risk to get started.