Why would someone want to file a legal separation instead of a divorce?

My guess is that the person is hoping that in Separation, there won't be child support and/or alimony or other issues brought up. My suggestion is that if there is to be a separation, you have a Post-Nuptial Separation Agreement prepared by a professional so that all your rights are protected. Good luck.

The only difference in the two procedures is that the parties remain married. This fact then requires a new case to be filed in the future to dissolve the marriage.