Separated but Under the Same Roof

Some couples who’ve ended their marriages are finding common ground right at home. Being apart together.

Unusual, perhaps, but not unique. Out of concern for the well-being of their children, the well-being of their finances or both, an increasing number of couples are continuing to share an address for a considerable period after they split up. Though not, presumably, until death do them part.

I have worked with couples in this situation a few times over the years. As described in this excellent article by Joanne Kaufman in the New York Times, usually it corresponds to economic difficulties — either in the greater economy or the parties’ personal economy.