At Clark Woods LLP, we regularly answer legal questions that come up in real-life situations — questions our clients face every day. In this post, Family Law lawyer Quinn Johnson responds to one we hear often from separating spouses: “Do I actually need a formal separation agreement?” Quinn explains why putting one in place early is a smart, protective step—even if the separation seems amicable.

Do I Need A Separation Agreement?

One of the most common questions we hear from new clients is whether a Separation Agreement is necessary in their situation. Often, these individuals remain on good terms with their ex-spouses and believe they can move forward without a formal, binding agreement.

However, this is usually the ideal time to work together and make important decisions while communication is still cooperative.

Think of a Separation Agreement like an insurance policy—you hope you never need to rely on it, but you’ll be glad it’s in place if things take a turn. Even if things are amicable today, disagreements can arise quickly without a clear roadmap for resolution.

Need help with a family law matter? Contact Clark Woods LLP today to speak with an experienced family law lawyer.
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