What is the difference between desertion of a spouse and abandonment of a spouse?

Answer 1

There is for the most part no difference in the terms. Although how either is defined is determined by the laws of the state where the couple resided at the time the act occurred. Desertion or abandonment is not simply defined as a spouse living the marital residence. It is defined by the circumstances in which the absentee spouse left and the consequences resulting in the act.