Santa Barbara Divorce & Separation

The difference between divorce and legal separation

McCleary (Mac) H. Sanborn, III, Attorney at Law, has spent more than 30 years handling many issues of family law cases.  During that time, he has handled numerous divorce and legal separation cases in Southern California.

Santa Barbara divorce attorney Mac Sanborn personally works with each client and makes sure that he or she understands the benefits and drawbacks of a decision to divorce or separate.  In many cases, people are unsure of whether to file for divorce or separation in Santa Barbara and he offers practical legal advice that enables clients to make decisions about their future.

Santa Barbara divorce

Unlike a separation, a divorce severs the marital tie between two people.  After a divorce, each spouse may remarry.  In a divorce, the couple must settle the following marital issues:

• Alimony
• Child custody
• Child support
• Division of assets and debts
• Visitation

The couple can handle the divorce process in a variety of ways.  Some cases are easier than others are and you need to discuss your case with an attorney familiar with divorce and separation.

Santa Barbara legal separation

In many ways, a legal separation is the same as a divorce.  However, at the end of the process, the couple is still legally married but live apart while various issues are resolved, including whether to proceed with divorce or continue the marriage.  During a separation, an agreement is needed that defines the financial and family obligations of each spouse.

For a legal separation in Santa Barbara, the couple must still handle the marital issues they would in a divorce.  You may choose a legal separation if you want to stay married for the following reasons:

• Religious objection to divorce
• Need to maintain health or other insurance benefits
• Proximity to social security or other government benefits
• Possibility of reconciliation

In many cases, a separation leads to divorce.  To protect your interests, you and your spouse should document your agreement with the help of an attorney.  Mac Sanborn has extensive experience helping clients and drafting separation agreements.

Legal advice for a divorce or separation in Santa Barbara

McCleary (Mac) H. Sanborn, III, Attorney at Law, handles a wide variety of family law cases.  For a Santa Barbara divorce lawyer who genuinely cares about your interests, contact us and discuss legal separation.  It is important to know your options and make the decision that suits your needs.

Call 1 (805) 898-2501 to learn about divorce and separation in Santa Barbara