Let’s Get Back Together! Virginia Separation Laws and Reuniting

Posted on Jan 10, 2013 by Katie Carter

You should be familiar with Virginia separation laws if you’re considering divorce. Separation sometimes can be emotionally complicated, and some couples may have questions about what types of behavior would void a separation.

Voiding a Separation? Investigate Why You Want to Reunite

First off, it’s important to know the basic rules of separation. Virginia separation laws do not mandate a legal separation. The couple doesn’t need to file any paperwork in order to be separated; they must only begin living apart (or, in rare cases, under the same roof but by certain strict guidelines) in order to be recognized as separated.

Sometimes, couples use the separation period to take a breather and reevaluate their marriage. They may start out with the intention of separation being a temporary break, or they may realize after having been separated with the intent to divorce that they would rather not give up on their marriage just yet. When you want to void a separation, you should review your past, possibly with a Virginia attorney first.

When a couple attempts to get back together and void a separation, they have a long road ahead of them. Depending on what the issues were that drove them apart, they may need to make some minor or major changes in their lives.

Some couples choose to seek the services of a couples’ counselor or other type of therapist. In any case, the partners will need to find new ways to address their problems, improve their communication and rebuild their bond of trust. If you’re separated and want to reunite, it’s something you need to give a great deal of thought.

How Reuniting Can Affect Your Separation: Laws

According to Virginia separation laws, the parties seeking a divorce must (in most cases) live apart for a period of six months to one year. The ‘separation clock” is started when the couple starts living apart. If the couple decides to reunite and move back in together, it will void their separation. Should their second chance at a relationship not work out, they will have to start their separation over again, with the clock restarted from the beginning.

You should speak with a lawyer about what specific time periods and behaviors would actually void your separation.

Contact a Divorce Attorney about Virginia Separation Laws

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer Family Law Firm can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to divide your marital assets fairly. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar: 1-757-425-5200.

With guidance, you can better understand the divorce process and know your rights as outlined in Virginia separation laws in terms of how to void a separation and build a new relationship.