New York Legal Separation is a legal process by which married couples can dissolve their marriage without filing for a divorce. It is a way for couples to live apart while still maintaining the legal status of a married couple. It does not require a court hearing or a court judgment, and it does not grant either party the same rights as a divorce. There are two types of New York Legal Separation: 1) voluntary separation and 2) legal separation. Voluntary separation is when the two parties mutually agree to separate and live apart without any court involvement. Legal separation is when one or both parties file a petition in court for a court order to separate. The court order will establish the rights and responsibilities of each spouse during the separation. In both cases, the court may order one or both parties to pay child support, alimony, and/or division of assets. The court may also set visitation and custody arrangements for any minor children. The court may also determine whether either spouse is entitled to receive spousal support. In New York, legal separation is a viable alternative to divorce and can be more beneficial for couples who are not ready to end their marriage.