Legal Separation in Salem, Keizer and the Willamette Valley in Oregon
A caring legal separation attorney
The law firm of Michael A. Neal, PC, helps married couples file for separation in Salem, Keizer and the Willamette Valley, Oregon. The decision to file for separation should not be taken lightly. Similar to divorce, separation proceedings determine many important issues regarding your marriage and family life, including property division, child custody, child support, visitation rights, and alimony.
Michael A. Neal is keenly aware of the difficult emotional circumstances that many of his clients experience when filing for separation and divorce in Oregon. When addressing complicated legal questions of great personal consequence, Michael A. Neal delivers the dedicated personal attention that you deserve.
Choosing separation
There are several reasons why married couples seek legal separation instead of divorce:
- Religious beliefs opposing divorce
- Entitlement as a spouse to certain government and tax benefits
- Retention of health care benefits
Sometimes, legal separation is pursued as a temporary solution when couples do not meet residency requirements for divorce. During the first two years, a separation can be changed to a divorce by either person. After two years, a separate case will be required for a divorce. Michael A. Neal emphasizes to his clients that separation is serious and should not be viewed merely as a pause for a marriage that is experiencing difficulties.
Filing for separation
There are significant differences between filing for separation and divorce in Salem, Keizer, and the Willamette Valley, Oregon:
- Legal separation can happen immediately, as opposed to a six-month wait for divorce
- There is no residency requirement for legal separation
- Legal separation forbids spouses to remarry
Before filing for separation in Oregon, contact Michael A. Neal, an experienced family law attorney located in Salem, OR, to ensure that it is your most suitable option.
Call toll-free 866-319-0701 or use our convenient web contact form
for divorce help in Salem, Keizer and the Willamette Valley