Any couple planning a divorce can file either formal or informal legal separation paperwork in advance of their court proceedings. This can be a part of their actual divorce process, or it can be something of a legal safety net put in place while one or both parties consider if they are really ready to end their marriage. Regardless of the formality or consequences of legal separation paperwork, however, it must always address several key issues if it is to be worth the time and trouble. First it must take into consideration all of the financial issues for the couple including debts, taxes and insurances. It must also establish child custody and visitation guidelines. Things like assets and real property must also be addressed in legal separation paperwork as well. Why so many details if it is only a separation? Although a husband and wife might not live in the same location, they will still have jointly held assets and responsibilities, and creating ways of dealing with them as individuals is a wise choice.