When couples want to stay married but wish to live separate and apart, the parties can file a Complaint for Legal Separation with the Court. By definition, under the law, a legal separation does not legally terminate the marriage, but issues orders as to the division of property, custody and support issues. The date of separation can have a dramatic impact on the valuation of marital assets in certain circumstances. In some cases spouses decide to remain married to retain a spouses medical benefits and specifically medical insurance coverage.