Heidi Montag: Files for legal separation from Spencer Pratt

Heidi Montag: Files for legal separation from Spencer Pratt

Reality star Heidi Montag has filed papers to officially separate from husband Spencer Pratt.

on Tuesday, Montag filed for a legal separation from her husband of just over a year, according to court papers obtained by Access Hollywood.

The Hills star filed the papers in Los Angeles Superior Court, citing irreconcilable differences as the reason for the split.

Spencer Pratt has 30 days to file a response (from when he is served) to Montag's petition for separation.

Although, a separation is not final and a couple can always choose to not proceed with a divorce. A separation, however, can stop the clock on community property the couple earned or acquired during the course of their marriage. Interestingly, Montag checked off a box that may indicate the couple never shared community property at all.

While filing, Montag checked off the box, which indicates there is no community assets for the court to consider in future proceedings related to the separation. Checking off that box, according to legal experts, may mean a couple signed a pre-nuptial agreement prior to getting married. If that's the case, Montag's separation may merely be an option for her to consider whether she wants to get a divorce.

Just a few days ago, in related Montag-Pratt news, Montag appeared to engage in a Twitter battle with her estranged husband. "I can't believe Heidi hacked into my Twitter and made you think I like the Shannon Twins. Those bad influences are Heidi's friends, not mine," he Tweeted.

Heidi replied with: "@spencerpratt - Get over it! @karissashannon1 & @Kristinashn1 are way cooler than you are!"

The filing comes just days after Montag reportedly moved out of the home she shared with her husband, whom she married in an elaborate Pasadena church wedding, taped for "The Hills" in April 2009.

"Heidi appreciates all the support and concern, we hope everyone will respect their privacy during this difficult time," Heidi's rep previously told AccessHollywood.com following initial reports of the couple's split. Montag is now reportedly living in Malibu with her friend, Jennifer Bunney. The two are reportedly filming their time as housemates for an upcoming reality show.