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Nolo's Plain-English Law Dictionary

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Separation: In the context of marriage, the state of living apart. Spouses are said to be separated if they no longer live in the same dwelling, even though they may continue their relationship. They may also be considered separated while living in the same house, if they no longer share a bedroom and each live their separate lives. A legal separation results when the parties separate and a court rules on the division of property, alimony (spousal support), or child support and child custody, but does not grant a divorce.

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