Covenant Marriage and Separation
Covenant marriage and separation present unique challenges and considerations due to the strict requirements and limitations imposed on couples who choose this type of marital commitment.
Only three states in the United States—Louisas, Arizona, and Arkansas—allow covenant marriages, which are a special kind of union. Covenant marriages include more stringent conditions and restrictions than ordinary marriages, especially with regard to divorce1. Covenant couples can only file for divorce for specific circumstances, such as adultery, abandonment, or physical or emotional abuse, and are required to seek counselling if marital issues emerge.
One of the key aspects of covenant marriage is the requirement for couples to live apart for a certain period before they can file for divorce. This period, typically one year, is intended to give couples time to reflect on their relationship and consider reconciliation1. However, this requirement can also make it challenging for couples who are seeking a temporary separation to take a break and reassess their relationship.
The idea behind covenant marriage is to strengthen the commitment between partners and reduce the divorce rate by making it more difficult to end a marriage. Supporters argue that this approach encourages couples to work through their issues and prioritize their relationship1. Critics, on the other hand, believe that it can trap couples in unhappy marriages and prolong the emotional distress for both partners and their children.
So, can couples in a covenant marriage take a break? Technically, yes, but it comes with significant legal and emotional hurdles. The requirement to live apart for a year before filing for divorce means that couples must navigate a complex process if they decide to separate temporarily. This can be particularly challenging for those who are already struggling with marital issues.
Ultimately, the decision to enter into a covenant marriage should be made with careful consideration of the potential challenges and benefits. It’s important for couples to understand the legal implications and to be prepared to seek counseling and support if they encounter difficulties in their relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions on Covenant Marriage and Separation
1. Can couples in a covenant marriage legally separate?
Yes, couples in a covenant marriage can legally separate, but they must meet specific criteria set by their state’s laws, such as proof of misconduct or incompatibility, and often need to undergo counseling.
2. What are the acceptable grounds for separation in a covenant marriage?
Grounds for separation may include adultery, abuse, abandonment, substance addiction, or other severe marital issues as defined by the laws of the state offering covenant marriages.
3. Is counseling mandatory before separating in a covenant marriage?
Yes, many states require counseling before a couple in a covenant marriage can separate, aiming to address and possibly resolve the underlying conflicts.
4. How does separation differ from divorce in a covenant marriage?
Separation allows the couple to live apart without legally dissolving the marriage, while divorce formally ends the marital relationship, requiring additional legal steps and stricter grounds in a covenant marriage.
5. Can a separation in a covenant marriage lead to reconciliation?
Yes, the structured counseling and reflection period during separation often encourage reconciliation, aligning with the covenant marriage’s intent to preserve the marital bond.
6. What happens if one spouse wants a separation but the other does not?
If one spouse seeks separation, they must still meet the state’s legal requirements for separation in a covenant marriage, which may include proving acceptable grounds and attending mandatory counseling.
