Navigating Separation in North Dakota: Understanding Your Options Beyond "Legal Separation" Many individuals contemplating a split from their spouse without immediately pursuing divorce often inquire about "legal separation." It's a common term in family law discussions, and in many states, it allows couples to formalize terms of their separation – such as child custody, support, and property division – through a court order, while remaining legally married. However, when it comes to North Dakota, the landscape is a bit different. This article aims to clarify what "legal separation" means (or doesn't mean) in North Dakota and to explore the practical alternatives available to you. The North Dakota Reality: "Legal Separation" as a Statutory Concept Here’s the critical point upfront: North Dakota does not have a statutory provision for "legal separation" in the same way many other states do. You cannot simp...