As much as you might think that you are ready to move on, dating during divorce can have serious implications. It can hurt you both legally and financially. It is also not likely to do you any long-term good emotionally, either. Yes divorce can be a lonely, depressing, and stressful process, which is why many people take this opportunity to reenter the dating scene. It is wise to refrain form dating until your divorce has been finalized. You may think you are ready to move on and falling in love again can spark happiness and optimism for the future, but dating during a divorce can have a serious impact on the end result. We would like to outline several reason why it is a bad idea…
Dating During Divorce Can Negatively Affect Spousal Support
Under the law, you are considered to be legally married until a judge officially divorces you. If you are having sex with someone else before you are divorced, you may technically be committing adultery. If you live in a state that still recognizes fault in divorce, then your “adultery” may affect your ability to receive spousal support. It may also reduce the amount of spousal support you receive. What’s more, if you are not just dating, but are living with your new love, you might as well kiss your chances of receiving spousal support good-bye.
Unstable Emotions
To truly move on from life after marriage, you need to confront your emotions. There is pain, sadness, and anger associated with divorce and you need to let yourself feel those emotions. The problem is that, no matter how long you may have been thinking about divorce, while you are going through a divorce you are still not at your best. You’re not truly yourself. While hiding your pain in a new romance may suffice, for the time being, it will be nothing more than temporary in most cases.
Possible Negative Impact on Your Children and Child-related Issues
If you have children, then you also need to realize that it’s in your best interest to try to keep a cordial relationship with your spouse. You will most likely have ongoing contact with your spouse after the divorce because of the children. Dating during divorce can poison the spirit of cooperation and affect your life for a long time after the divorce is final. The non-dating spouse may be worried about how the new lover will affect the kids and how much time he/she will spend with them which can make reaching an agreement much more difficult.
Can Negatively Affect Your Finances
Any money you receive as spousal support is generally taxable income to you. Any money you receive in a property settlement is not. For that reason, you might want to give up your right to spousal support in exchange for receiving more money now. However, if you are already dating someone, your spouse may be much less likely to agree to give you more marital property in exchange for your waiving your right to support. That way, your spouse won’t have to give up any extra marital property. Then, as soon as you and your new love start living together, your spouse can stop paying spousal support, too. And all of this can make your soon to be ex-spouse feel jealous and seek revenge by turning the divorce process into a hotly contested dispute.
We would seriously recommend talking with your lawyer. Even though it may seem like your divorce is taking forever, you owe it to yourself to not stir up the dust.
We are committed to helping families resolve legal challenges and get back to their lives. We offer the guidance and support that you will need when you are involved with the legal system.
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About Helmer Somers Law
About Helmer Somers LawHelmer Somers Law helps individuals and businesses navigate the complex system of rules that accompany all legal situations. We are licensed to practice in both Kentucky and Ohio and offers flexible, affordable payment terms for our services. We welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and become your lawyer for life! It’s a fact of life in the modern world. There comes a time for virtually every adult American when the services of a competent, dedicated lawyer are required. Circumstances such as divorce, bankruptcy, estate planning or an income tax audit demand that your rights be protected, and your long-term interests advocated for with diligence and perseverance. When you call Helmer & Somers Law, you can rest assured that they will be.