Document background
The Agreement of Separation (Trennungsvereinbarung) is a vital legal document used in Germany when married couples decide to separate but have not yet initiated or are not ready for divorce proceedings. It becomes particularly relevant during the mandatory separation period (typically one year) required under German law before a divorce can be granted. This document outlines crucial arrangements including financial obligations, property usage, custody arrangements if children are involved, and interim measures for asset management. The agreement must align with German Civil Code requirements and can be modified if circumstances change. It serves multiple purposes: documenting the official start of separation, establishing clear guidelines for the separation period, protecting both parties' interests, and potentially simplifying subsequent divorce proceedings. Legal counsel is often recommended when drafting this agreement to ensure compliance with German family law and to protect both parties' rights.
