Divorcing clients are often lonely and frustrated, waiting for the opportunity
to rediscover love. But as much as you might think that you are ready
to move one, dating during
divorce can have serious consequences. There is a chance that a new relationship
may harm both parties legally and financially.
The following are several reasons why you might want to wait on dating
until you have put your divorce behind you:
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Emotions are still fresh – Divorce is emotionally and psychologically traumatic, even if
you’re looking forward to a new start in life. As you rediscover
yourself, you will go through various emotional stages and changes. Although
this may seem exciting, it may not be fair to start a relationship with
someone new when you’re still going through an emotional rollercoaster.
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Dating can have a negative impact on
child custody and visitation – If you date during divorce, your spouse may want to prevent the
children from having constant contact with the new lover. In addition,
your children may not wish to spend time with you if your new flame is
around and can have a psychological impact on their wellbeing.
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Dating can affect
alimony – Although dating will not impact child support and alimony, it
may if you decide to move in with your new beau. If you and the new significant
other go on expensive shopping sprees or luxurious vacations, the court
may believe that you have enough money to pay for alimony . By contrast,
if you are the individual who is likely to receive alimony, living with
someone new means that you do not need as much spousal support.
-
Dating can impact
property division
– As we mentioned above, cohabitating can have an impact on alimony.
Since living with someone and sharing expenses is a significant help financially,
in comparison to living on your own and paying all of your expenses, a
court may determine that your spouse will need more share of the assets.
If you are interested in filing for divorce in Florida,
contact our Daytona Beach divorce attorney at
Law Offices of Robert Stepniak today.