In Canada, separation occurs when a married couple decides to live apart while remaining legally married. It serves as a legal marital status after living separate lives for at least one year.

No, divorce is not the only option. Many couples consider legal separation before making the final decision to divorce. Separation can be a stepping stone or an alternative to divorce.

Whether it's better to separate or divorce depends on various factors, including emotional readiness, financial implications, and the potential for reconciliation. Separation allows you time to think, whereas divorce is a final legal action.