Q&A

Does the VA recognize legal separation?

Does the VA recognize legal separation?

The Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act exempts VA disability benefits from being divided during a divorce. Importantly, when a veteran and their spouse are legally separated rather than divorced, the same rules still apply.

Can you date someone while separated in VA?

Under Virginia law, you are either married or divorced, so even though you may be separated from your spouse physically, you are still married in the eyes of the law. With that being said, no one can prevent you from dating during your separation.

How long do you have to be separated in Virginia?

In Virginia, in order to get divorced, you need to be separated for one year, or six months if (1) you don’t have minor children, and (2) you have a signed agreement in place. Why do I have to be separated? To get divorced, you need to have grounds.

What happens if you are separated for 14 years?

Although you don’t need a court to help you with a separation, you won’t have any court orders to rely on if issues occur down the road. If you choose to separate, and your separation lasts for 14 years, it’s likely that you’ll lose communication and/or cooperation with your spouse.

How long can a couple live apart in Virginia?

Physical separation is usually achieved by one party moving out of the marital residence. However, Virginia law does allow spouses to live separate and apart under the same roof for purposes of their six- or twelve-month separation period. There are very strict guidelines for this process.

How does physical separation work in the state of Virginia?

Physical separation is usually achieved by one party moving out of the marital residence. However, Virginia law does allow spouses to live separate and apart under the same roof for purposes of their six- or twelve-month separation period. There are very strict guidelines for this process. For more information, see In-Home Separation in Virginia.

How long does a separation have to be in Virginia?

Depending on your circumstances, the duration of your separation (whether in-house or not) must meet either the mandatory six month or one year mark under Virginia law. You should speak with a Virginia Family lawyer before starting an in-home separation to ensure that it has the best chance of being held valid by a court .

Physical separation is usually achieved by one party moving out of the marital residence. However, Virginia law does allow spouses to live separate and apart under the same roof for purposes of their six- or twelve-month separation period. There are very strict guidelines for this process.

Although you don’t need a court to help you with a separation, you won’t have any court orders to rely on if issues occur down the road. If you choose to separate, and your separation lasts for 14 years, it’s likely that you’ll lose communication and/or cooperation with your spouse.

Can a husband move to another state during a long term separation?

Many states have passed severe limitations on the amount and duration of alimony that judges can award. During a long-term separation, your husband could move to a state which has enacted such laws, and have plenty of time to establish residency there. (Most states only require 6-12 months of residency to file for divorce.)