Persons considering ending their marriage through the divorce process may also consider marriage counseling, legal separation (in states that recognize such a status), annulment (in limited circumstances), and living apart. Each of these alternatives may have financial and other consequences.
In Alaska, individuals contemplating the end of their marriage have several options to consider. Divorce is the formal legal process to dissolve a marriage, but couples may also explore marriage counseling as a way to address issues and potentially reconcile. Legal separation is another option, which allows couples to live apart and divide their assets without formally ending the marriage; however, Alaska does not have a formal process for legal separation recognized by the state courts, but couples can create separation agreements. Annulment is a legal procedure that declares a marriage null and void as if it never existed, but it is only available under specific, limited circumstances, such as fraud, coercion, or if one party was underage or mentally incapacitated at the time of marriage. Living apart without any formal legal process is also an option, but it may have implications for property division, custody, and other legal matters if the couple eventually decides to divorce. Each of these alternatives can have significant financial and legal consequences, and it is advisable to consult with an attorney to understand the implications fully.