Separate Support

See Legal Separation

Available in some states, a legal separation is similar to a divorce, except no divorce judgment is granted that ends the marriage.In response to a complaint for legal separation or separate support, the court may provide remedies relating to property (in some states) and support. Generally, a complaint for divorce or annulment is necessary before a court orders a final property division. Also called judicial separation.

A legal procedure brought by complaint for separate support, that allows the plaintiff to seek court orders without filing a complaint for divorce. Often used by people who have religious objections to divorce.