Document background
The Non-Legal Separation Agreement serves as a formal documentation of voluntary separation arrangements between married couples in the Philippines who choose to live apart without pursuing legal separation through the courts. This document becomes relevant when couples need to formalize their separation arrangements while maintaining their legal marriage status, as divorce is not recognized in the Philippines except for Filipino Muslims under the Code of Muslim Personal Laws. The agreement typically covers crucial aspects such as living arrangements, financial responsibilities, property management, and child care if applicable. While a Non-Legal Separation Agreement cannot dissolve the marriage or override fundamental marital obligations under Philippine law, it provides a clear framework for managing day-to-day arrangements during separation. The document should align with the Family Code of the Philippines and relevant civil laws while remaining within the bounds of what can be privately agreed upon by married couples.
