Temporary or Trial Separation
Working with the counsellor a couple can plan for a temporary or trial separation. Couples may want a try a trial separation to provide them with the time and space to decide whether a formal separation is the best course for them or not. For instance, with time apart, individuals may find that other factors (like financial or work pressures) are causing them the discomfort they had attributed to their partner.

Structured Separation
Working with the counsellor a couple can develop the steps for a permanent separation. By planning for a structured separation a lot of the pain, anger and aggravation can be avoided. The counsellor can guide the couple to structure arrangements to minimise the distress a separation can cause the individuals, their family and extended family. The negotiation skills the couple can develop during this process will be useful in a wide range of life situations.

Primary Dispute Resolution for Couples who want a Separation
Those couples who have decided to separate, and are unable to agree on a property settlement and/or parental rights, can work with a counsellor or mediator to come to joint agreements. Those agreements can then be used as information to fill out a Consent Order. Instead of arguing these issues in court, primary dispute resolution can help to identify issues and explore options for settlement, for far less money. The Family Court recommends that couples seek primary dispute resolution, to avoid court expenses and save time. Deputy Registrars can approve Consent Orders in chambers' (no fee), which will then become a legally binding Court Order.

If you have been married less than two years and want to apply for a divorce, you and your spouse must attend counselling with a certified counsellor or mediator to discuss the possibility of reconciliation. Then if you still decide to separate, the counsellor needs to complete and sign Part F of the Divorce Kit.

See www.familycourt.gov.au - Family Court - if you place the cursor over Step by Step Guide, a drop down menu will appear, click on Before You Begin, and then click on Before you file an Application.

See www.fmc.gov.au - Federal Magistrates Court of Australia - for information and forms for divorce etc.

Separation and Divorce
The Three Stages of Intimacy
Self Worth
Reclaiming Your Relationship Time
Understanding Sexual Feelings