Legal separation is a way to avoid divorce and yet deal with the same matters that
are involved in a divorce. The couple remains legally married, they may live apart,
but neither of them may marry someone else.
Couples may choose this route due to financial reasons -- for example, mortgage payments
may be affected by a divorce. Some couples may choose this option due to their religious
beliefs. If they are devout, they may not wish to the break the laws of their religion.
Instead, they my choose to legally separate because they are able to live apart,
be financially separate, and fall within the guidelines of their religion.