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 Mississippi, individuals contemplating divorce have several alternatives to consider. Marriage counseling is often a first step for couples trying to resolve their issues before deciding to end their marriage. Legal separation is not formally recognized in Mississippi, meaning there is no specific statute for a legal separation; however, couples can enter into a separation agreement that addresses issues such as property division, child custody, and support. Annulment is available but only under limited circumstances, such as in cases of bigamy, incest, impotence, or if the marriage was entered into under duress, fraud, or while one party was under the age of consent. Living apart is another option where the couple remains legally married but lives separately; this can have various financial implications, such as the responsibility for debts and the division of property. It's important for individuals to consult with an attorney to understand the legal and financial consequences of each alternative in the context of their specific situation.