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 Louisiana, individuals contemplating divorce have several alternatives to consider. Marriage counseling is often sought as a means to potentially reconcile and resolve issues before proceeding with a divorce. Legal separation, however, is not recognized in Louisiana as the state does not have a status for legal separation; instead, couples may choose to live separately. Living apart for a specific period is a requirement for a no-fault divorce in Louisiana, with the duration depending on whether the couple has children together. Annulment is another option but is only available under limited circumstances where the marriage is considered void or voidable due to reasons such as fraud, bigamy, or lack of consent. Each of these alternatives can have significant financial implications, such as the division of property, spousal support, and child custody and support. It is important for individuals to consult with an attorney to understand the legal and financial consequences of each option within the context of Louisiana law.