Had one today. My STBX and I had last week begun discussing a separation agreement for the 12 months required before divorcing to include being paid spousal support by her (she is higher earner). The 12 month separation period was as far as we had gotten in our discussions but felt fair and amicable.

I am wanting to move out NOW and get an apartment but My potential attorney said it is best that the separation agreement include EVERYTHING including the stipulations for alimony for after the 12 month separation period ends. She suggested I not move out until it’s final.

I am sure that would take several months or more and I just can’t imagine living in the same household for that long. I do understand that by staying in the house the STBX will have more “motivation” to agree to stipulations and not “drag out the case”. But I don’t think either of us can begin to heal or move on until we are actually living in separate residences.

Is it possible to iron out a 12 month separation agreement FIRST so that I can move out while receiving spousal support and then during the 12 months initiate the negotiation for the actual divorce settlement for beyond the 12 months?