San Diego, CA – There were news reports about a reality TV couple that filed for a legal separation, but later withdrew those documents to preserve their marriage.
Celebrity couple files for divorce then later reconciled
The couple, married since June 2017, experienced a private marital crisis that led to formal legal actions in early 2025 [1]. Court records show the wife filed for legal separation in California on March 4, 2025, citing the date of separation as the same day. She listed irreconcilable differences as the reason and sought spousal support along with attorneys’ fees, while specifying that her husband should not receive spousal support. Details regarding assets and debts were to be addressed later.Just six days afterward, on March 10, 2025, the husband filed for divorce in Florida. His petition stated the marriage occurred on June 28, 2018, in Malibu, California, and described the union as irretrievably broken. He claimed his wife had resided permanently in Florida since 2021 and asserted that their last shared residence as spouses was in that state. In his filing, he requested an equitable distribution of marital assets with an unequal split favoring him, emphasizing the marriage’s duration and his claimed significant contributions to acquiring and enhancing assets. He also sought coverage of attorneys’ fees and costs, particularly if the proceedings became contentious.In April 2025, both parties agreed to pause their respective cases. Documents indicate they chose this step to pursue a dignified, private, and cooperative resolution without immediate court intervention, aiming for a mutually acceptable outcome on all issues.Nearly one year after the initial filings, on March 27, 2026, the couple voluntarily requested dismissal of both the separation and divorce petitions. This effectively ended the legal actions. The following day, the wife publicly shared images from a romantic tropical getaway with her husband, signaling renewed harmony.The developments remained largely out of public view until court documents surfaced. Representatives for the couple have declined to comment on the matter. The situation highlights how even high-profile couples can navigate serious marital challenges discreetly before choosing reconciliation over dissolution.
Is it possible to salvage a marriage after filing for a legal separation under California law?
Legal separation in California does not end the marriage. Unlike a divorce (dissolution), which terminates marital status after a six-month waiting period, a legal separation allows couples to live apart, divide property and debts, and obtain court orders on child custody, support, and spousal support while remaining legally married. This status preserves the option for reconciliation more flexibly than a finalized divorce.
If both spouses decide to reconcile during the legal separation process—before any final judgment is entered—they can simply dismiss the case. California courts provide a straightforward mechanism for this through a Request for Dismissal (form CIV-110). Both parties typically need to agree and sign the dismissal if a response has been filed. Once approved by the court, the case is closed, and the couple resumes their marriage as if the proceeding had never advanced to judgment. No remarriage is required because the marital bond was never dissolved.
Even after a judgment of legal separation has been entered, reconciliation remains possible. The couple can resume living together as spouses. However, existing court orders (on property, support, or custody) may still apply unless formally modified or terminated by the court. In such cases, filing a new action or stipulation to set aside relevant portions of the judgment may be necessary to fully restore the pre-separation legal framework.
Many couples use the legal separation period as a structured “trial” time apart to address issues through counseling, therapy, or mediation without the finality of divorce. Statistics suggest a portion of separated couples eventually reconcile, though most proceed toward divorce. The key advantage is that filing for legal separation keeps the door open—no six-month waiting period locks in the end of the marriage.Practical steps for reconciliation:
- Communicate clearly and consult attorneys to understand implications.
- File the dismissal promptly to avoid unnecessary court involvement.
- Address any temporary orders (support, parenting plans) through agreement or modification.
- Consider post-reconciliation agreements if trust or financial issues persist.
Consulting a family law attorney in California is highly recommended, as individual circumstances involving children, significant assets, or prior agreements can add complexity. California law prioritizes giving couples space to repair their relationship, making salvage not only possible but actively supported by the legal framework. With mutual commitment and professional guidance, many marriages can be successfully rebuilt after initiating legal separation.
Family attorneys are available in the San Diego area
Smith Family Law is available to help local clients with issues such as divorces, child custody, alimony, domestic violence, and settlements. Their attorneys can provide more information about any of these issues.
Firm contact info:
225 Broadway, Suite 2220, San Diego, CA 92101
619-431-3131
https://www.smithfamilylaw.com/
Sources:
- https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/dina-manzo-and-husband-david-cantin-call-off-divorce/