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Can I Date During the Divorce Process?

If you and your spouse are in the process dissolving your marriage, you are probably thinking about diving back into the dating pool. It is no surprise that divorce can be a difficult and lonesome experience. However, if you date before your divorce is finalized, this can actually end up costing you in more ways than one. With so much at stake, it would be unwise to risk the outcome of your divorce settlement just so you can find a new partner. Before you even consider hitting the dating scene, make sure you understand the potential ramifications of it.

Below is a list of some of the consequences you might experience if you date during your divorce:

  • The situation can get even messier: Even if your dating habits somehow do not harm you legally, they will very likely make the situation somewhat messier. Regardless of who initiated the divorce, you can still expect your spouse to be a little bitter if you end up finding a new special someone so soon, before the two of you have even officially divorced. This could lead to a bit of pushback during negotiations, which could result in a pricier and more stressful divorce process.
  • Err on the side of caution: You might feel ready to get back into dating, so you can embark on a new chapter in your romantic life, but there are many reasons why you should hold off on this until your divorce is finalized. One of the most important reasons is, of course, your mental wellbeing. Rushing into a new relationship so soon after the end of your marriage will make it difficult to process the emotions you are currently working through and might even ruin the makings of a relationship that might have been able to work had you not jumped the gun on re-entering the dating scene.
  • It could affect child custody: If you are fighting for custody of your children, you can bet that the people who are part of your life, such as a new love interest, will be scrutinized. If your new boyfriend or girlfriend has an unsavory past or a criminal record, this can completely derail your chances of obtaining the results you are seeking.
  • It could affect your relationship with your children: Your children are going through a hard enough time trying to cope with your divorce and getting used to the idea of mom and dad no longer being together, so the last thing they need is for you to make matters even more difficult and trying for them. If you start dating so early on, before the divorce is even finalized, they might end up resenting you for it. Moreover, dating or focusing on a new partner will take precious time away from them. You need to be there for your children to help them through this emotionally challenging time.

Essentially, the best thing you can do for yourself and for your children is to wait until after your divorce is finalized before you start a new relationship. This will allow you to focus on everything that is currently on your plate and give yourself and your family the time they need to adapt to these great changes.

Trusted Family Law Attorney in Louisville

If you and your spouse are unable to continue to make your marriage work and are headed for a divorce, you should not postpone obtaining skilled legal counsel to guide you through this difficult experience. At the Law Office of Todd K. Bolus, PLLC, our skilled family law attorney in Louisville is backed by over 20 years of legal experience that he will use to your advantage. You should not go through this process on your own.

Get started on your divorce case today and contact our legal team at (502) 272-9596 to request a confidential consultation today.