Getting a legal separation in California is a way to legally end your marriage while you figure out what to do next. It's not the same as a divorce, but it can be an important first step.

A legal separation is a court order that allows you and your spouse to live separate lives but still be married. A judge will issue this order if you have been living apart for at least six months, or if one of you is serving in the military and has been deployed for longer than 180 days.

Once you get the order, there are some things that are different from a divorce:

You can't get remarried during the legal separation process. You will need to wait until the court signs off on the final paperwork before you can walk down the aisle again.

Your spouse will continue to have certain rights over your property, like alimony and community property rights. You'll also have to pay child support if there are children involved.

You'll still be responsible for any debts incurred during your marriage, including credit cards and student loans.

Get Divorce Papers is the fastest, easiest way to get the forms you need for your divorce. We've helped thousands of people just like you get divorced in California. Our service is affordable and our process is simple.