In Nevada, individuals contemplating the dissolution of a marriage have options beyond a final decree ending the union. One such option provides a means to live apart while remaining legally married. It establishes rights and responsibilities regarding property, debt, child custody, and support, similar to a divorce decree, but without terminating the marital status. This differs from a divorce, which legally dissolves the marriage, allowing each party to remarry.
This alternative may be pursued for various reasons. Some couples may have religious or personal objections to divorce. Others might require maintaining marital status for financial or insurance benefits. Furthermore, it offers a period of separation to assess the viability of reconciliation without the finality of a divorce judgment. Its historical roots lie in addressing situations where divorce was either legally restricted or socially unacceptable.