Legal Separation in DC

Divorce is not the only option when two spouses wish to split; in many cases, it is not the most financially prudent choice. If you and your spouse desire legal protection as you go your separate ways but still want to remain married, a legal separation in DC may be your best option. Separation is arguably just as painful and confusing as divorce, so you must work with a trusted family lawyer. Reach out to the Barkat Law Firm with any legal separation questions to determine whether it might be a good option for you and your spouse.

Call us for a consultation at 202-276-1167.

Why Pursue Legal Separation Instead of Divorce?

In the vast majority of legal separation cases, spouses choose to avoid divorce for financial reasons. Many insurance and retirement benefits are only available for spouses who are still married, but these benefits are not impacted by legal separation. Depending on the nature of the spouses’ finances, legal separation may also be more beneficial come tax season, especially as legally separated spouses must continue filing joint tax returns. For some couples, legal separation has little to do with financial concerns but is pursued for religious reasons.

Similarities and Differences Between Grounds For Divorce and Legal Separation

As with divorce, couples who choose to pursue legal separation must live separately. However, while there is a minimum time requirement for living separately before gaining eligibility for a voluntary divorce, couples are eligible for voluntary legal separation as soon as they begin living in separate residences. If the split is not voluntary, spouses must live apart for at least one year before filing for legal separation. It is possible to establish this sense of separation while living in the same house, but only if spouses do not share a bedroom or meals.

Barkat Law Firm: High-Quality Support For Legally Separating Spouses

No matter your reason for pursuing a legal separation in DC instead of divorce, you deserve compassionate counsel from an attorney who understands your situation. Look to Sheraz Barkat of the Barkat Law Firm for patient counsel during this difficult time, whether it is for divorce in DC, or legal separation.

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   Based on 40 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
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   Kleio Jiang 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I reached out to Sheraz to work out a prenup for me and my fiance. Working with Sheraz is honestly the best, most straight-forward process I could ever hope for. From his free intro call to his insanely quick turn-around with documents, I trusted him with the process and I'm so glad I did! The whole process took less than 2 weeks and our calls were informative and efficient. His pricing is also really reasonable and so worth it for the quality of his representation. I would definitely recommend him to anyone who wants to be able to fully trust their lawyer because he thought of things I didn't even consider and made the process really easy and stress-free.
  
 
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   Kevin Stroop 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend Sheraz and his team. He helped me through a very difficult situation and was always available when I needed him. When emotions were running high, it was incredibly reassuring to have Sheraz there to keep me grounded and on task. If you're looking for an amazing lawyer to have in your corner, Sheraz is your guy.
  
 
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   samia Nikkhah 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience working with Sheraz. He’s very professional and knowledgeable. He’s also really great about responding in a timely manner. I greatly recommend Barkat law to anyone who’s looking for a reliable family law practice.
  
 
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   Jason Tyszko 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Barkat Law Firm was very helpful and easy to work.  They were responsive and available to answer questions throughout my engagement with them.  I recommend them for your legal needs.
  
 
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   Sean Smith 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Sheraz was incredibly helpful in my child support case, which involved changing domicile from Michigan to Washington DC. He provided me with a roadmap for success and was very fair with his fees. In fact, I even received a refund. I highly recommend him as your lawyer.
  
 
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   Chad Hrdina 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Most importantly, I would hire Sheraz again without hesitation. He is an outstanding attorney and representative. Sheraz is personable, understanding, and collegial. Most importantly, he listens to client concerns, addressed them, and keeps the case focused on the legal matters at hand: which is critical when proceedings get emotional, petty, irrational, dramatic. I relied on him for divorce services and he was very professional, kept me fully apprised, and was fiscally responsible. Sheraz provided outstanding legal advice, and services, and navigated a complex situation to get me an equitable divorce agreement that I was happy with.

When things got irrational or nonsensical, Sheraz kept our efforts focused on being responsive to the court, and provided explanation and reassurance, that all the noise, while a reality, was not relevant to the court or our efforts. This was critical in enabling me to understand what mattered and what did not (the drama), and that made it much more easy for me (to not worry). He advised me on the realities of my situation, including what was in my favor, what was expected of me, my rights as a spouse, and generally what I could expect from the court. This was extremely helpful because it disabused me of any preconceived notions and enabled me to refocus my energy on what was possible. I did not always like the legal realities Sheraz explained, but accepted them, which enabled me to have realistic expectations and to focus on an equitable divorce agreement. Again, Sheraz is extremely knowledgeable, professional, and effective. I am very appreciative of his services, and would hire him again without hesitation.
  
 
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   Tyrus Chisley 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend! I’ve had several attorneys dealing with my family court case and Sheraz was by far the best attorney that I had. From the very first day that I entered his office, he made sure that he did everything he could to get my case resolved. I felt heard every step of the way and he did everything in his power to make sure that I got what I needed. Sheraz took his time to explain every proceeding and answer all questions that I had. He made sure that I knew all of my options and understood each of them. His communication is top notch, whenever I needed to reach him he was always available. If he needed to he would even correspond with me while he was out of the office. This meant a lot to me as there were issues that needed to be resolved at that moment. If you are looking for a great attorney then I definitely suggest you retain this one! I couldn’t be more pleased with the representation that I received. Thank you again Sheraz you are the best!
  
 
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   Chris Coleman 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I attained Mr Barkat for a child custody case and he has exceptional knowledge of the law. He listens to his client and makes sure that they get the best outcome. I recommend him unequivocally!
  
 
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   Meg Dailey 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Sheraz Barkat is not only good at what he does, he is also a very thoughtful and kind person. He took the time to explain each step of the proceedings, each item in every document, and was always available to answer my questions whenever needed. He was also very on top of everything, which really helped to ease my mind. 11/10 would recommend.
  
 
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   Dawn Howell 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very nice to deal with.