Seperation Agreements

In Maryland, whether or not a couple is separated is a question of fact. If husband and wife are not having sexual relations and are not sleeping under the same roof (in the same residence), then they are separated. People usually use the phrase "legal separation" to mean that they have signed a contract, called a separation agreement, which settles all of their marital property rights, alimony claims, and other issues, but they have not yet obtained a divorce. Separation agreements are favored in Maryland Courts as long as they are not contrary to public policy.