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Tips for a Beneficial Trial Separation

For some people who are considering the possibility of a divorce, but are not yet ready to move forward, a trial separation can be a beneficial sort of “cooling off” period that allows the spouses a chance to live apart, regain perspective and attempt to save their relationship.

Trial separations may not result in the couple getting back together and salvaging their marriage, but that does not mean it’s impossible to do so. It takes a lot of hard work and commitment for the trial separation to actually have its intended effect, however.

Below are some issues you should address to give yourself a good chance at making the trial separation a successful one:

  • Time: Do not go into a separation with an open-ended time limit. Instead, set a timeframe for when you will decide whether you will move back in together or get a divorce.
  • Payments: Make sure you have, in writing, an agreement that covers mortgage or rent payments, utilities, insurance policies and other needs during the separation.
  • Counseling: You may find it beneficial during this time to seek marriage counseling. Have an agreement about seeking counseling before the separation begins, and arrange your first session. Otherwise, you’ll find it becomes much easier to avoid the issue once you are living separately.
  • Property division: For the spouse who is moving out of the house, what right will he or she have to take certain possessions? Again, have an agreement in writing.

Even if you do not necessarily intend to file for divorce, it can be a good idea to have a family law attorney to advise you in setting up your separation. To learn more, meet with an experienced Minnesota attorney at Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A.

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  • "Tori had a thorough understanding of my situation and made excellent recommendations to resolve my concerns. She was persistent on communication and handled everything in a very timely manner. I would definitely hire her again in the future if needed." - M.K.

  • "With Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A., it is like having a family physician. They are all knowledgeable, thorough, comforting, and the only call I need to make for all my legal needs for many years to come. No matter what the matter, I totally trust their advice and commitment to me and my family." - J.N.

  • "Mary from APH Law helped me thru a difficult divorce. She and the entire staff was there for me every step of the way helping me on what to do next. They listened to what I wanted and helped me achieve what matter the most to me in the divorce settlement." - Dana C.

  • "I chose APH after my initial consultation with Mary. I felt my best interest would be represented. The entire process went excellent, the attorneys and staff communicated effectively and efficiently with me throughout the process as they needed to. Being new to the legal process and verbiage, they walked me and talked me through the next steps and the jargon, I felt completely comfortable and represented. I hope I never have to use legal services again but if I do I will call Mary at APH Law and know that I will be taken care of." - Jeff M.

  • "Divorce is a time of emotion and stress. Mary Pfeifer , My lawyer was professional and compassionate. She was very informative through the process. Her insight helped me in my decisions. She worked hard to obtain a settlement which was fair to both parties. Though, I hope I won't need her help again. It is reassuring to know a good person that is willing to help." - Rod S.

  • "I first came to Ms. Jacquelyn Lutz of Appelhof, Pfeifer and Hart in October of 2016. It was definitely the worst time in my life and she compassionately spoke with me about my options. Ms. Lutz thoroughly explained the laws, statutes, process and what to expect going forward. What was supposed to be one case, turned into three intricate cases that took a huge toll on me and my family. Ms. Lutz represented me in court on all three cases with a vast knowledge of the laws and how to proceed accordingly. During all three cases she kept me informed, calm, gave me resources to utilize, and (most important) gave me a realistic view of what may come next. Ms. Lutz knew each case required a great deal of knowledge and creative thinking on how to legally proceed forward with each case. My family and friends are forever grateful for the amazing representation by Ms. Lutz. I highly recommend Ms. Lutz for anyone needing or considering superb representation for any kind of family law. " - M.H.

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