why would you get a legal separation 
although the reasons for seeking a legal separation vary there are some common ones worth noting some religions prohibit married couples from divorcing and a legal separation grants most of the benefits of a divorce without compromising religious tenets also those unsure of their marital future may opt for a legal separation hoping for a reconciliation 1in spite of the pain from a split sometimes a legal separation makes sense when a divorce doesn t for example a legal separation can be temporary while a divorce is permanent some couples legally separate when trial separations don t work this may be their last attempt at saving their marriage couples with minor children often cite that a legal separation is more ideal for their children than a divorce although the parents function as a separate unit the family may remain together maintaining stability and order for the most part moreover many parents find that their children are better able to adjust to a divorce if they legally separate first additionally a legal separation is often simpler and more cost effective than a divorce with a legal separation it s possible to retain health and retirement benefits 1 also for those who want a divorce a legal separation is required in some states before a judge will grant one 2