Compare divorce and living separately in Vietnam, including marital status, ongoing obligations and why separation alone does not legally end a marriage.
Definition of Divorce
Divorce refers to the termination of a lawful marital relationship between a husband and a wife pursuant to a legally effective judgment or decision issued by the Court. From the time a divorce takes legal effect, the spousal relationship no longer exists from a legal perspective. As a result, after divorce, when the parties wish to establish a new marital relationship with another person, such action is considered lawful and does not violate legal regulations.
Under current law, divorce is classified into two forms: unilateral divorce upon the request of one party and divorce by mutual consent. During divorce proceedings, issues such as child custody rights, child support obligations, division of common property, and settlement of common debts are reviewed and decided by the Court in accordance with legal provisions. After a divorce, each party is entitled to remarry if all statutory conditions are satisfied.
Definition of Legal Separation
Legal separation refers to a situation in which a husband and a wife no longer live together, while the marital relationship has not been legally terminated. Legal separation often arises from agreement between the spouses or from actual living circumstances, and does not require or result in an independent legal procedure.
During the period of legal separation, both parties are still regarded as lawful spouses. Accordingly, rights and obligations relating to personal relations, property, and children in principle remain in effect, unless otherwise agreed upon or unless a competent authority issues a decision providing otherwise.
Legal Regulations on Divorce and Legal Separation in Vietnam
Under current legal regulations, divorce is formally recognized and specifically governed by law in terms of conditions, procedures, processes, and legal consequences. Divorce only takes legal effect when resolved by the Court through a lawful judgment or decision.
When divorce procedures are initiated, in addition to resolving matters between spouses, the Court is also required to address issues related to child custody and division of marital property upon request of the parties.
In contrast, legal separation is not specifically regulated under legislation on marriage and family. The law does not recognize legal separation as a ground for termination of a marital relationship. Instead, legal separation is considered a factor for the assessment of marital life and emotional relations when divorce proceedings are conducted. Therefore, during the period of legal separation, if one party establishes a marital relationship with another person, such conduct may still be deemed a violation of the monogamous marriage regime and may result in criminal liability in accordance with Article 182 of the Criminal Code 2015.
In conclusion, it can be concluded that divorce and legal separation differ fundamentally in legal nature. Divorce results in the termination of the marital relationship, while legal separation merely reflects a factual situation of living apart. A clear understanding of this distinction enables the parties to choose an appropriate solution when a marriage encounters serious difficulties.
How legal support can help
Jurion & Partners offers comprehensive legal services designed to help clients achieve a fast divorce while safeguarding their rights and interests. Our services include:
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Consulting on mutual consent and unilateral divorce procedures;
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Reviewing, drafting, and organizing all required divorce documents;
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Representing clients during negotiations on property division and child custody;
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Advising on financial settlements, spousal support, and child support;
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Assisting with recognition and enforcement of foreign divorce judgments in Vietnam;
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Representing clients before the People Court in divorce proceedings;
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Supporting post-divorce procedures, such as civil status registration updates.
>>> Read more: Seeking Legal Assistance for Unilateral Divorce Services in Vietnam
>>> Read more: How to File a Unilateral Divorce in Accordance with Vietnamese Law?
Discuss your next steps
For advice on distinguishing divorce and legal separation, ask Jurion & Partners to review your circumstances and explain the appropriate legal options before you take the next step.
