Some clients ask, “When can I start dating during my divorce process?” While you certainly can start dating, the better question is, should I start dating during the divorce process and how could it affect my case? Dating during a divorce can affect a case both emotionally as well as financially. However, certainly there are instances in which dating has not affected the case’s outcome. Although each case is unique, below are some ways dating can affect your divorce that you may want to consider before making your new relationship public knowledge.
First, dating could seriously affect your spouse emotionally and can greatly impact settlement possibilities. Your spouse may become a lot less cooperative and settlement may become much harder. Often times, if your spouse finds out you are dating, it can lead to bitterness and less concessions.
Dating or moving in with your new partner during the divorce process could, in some cases, affect your case financially. While dating would not impact equitable distribution, in some instances your extramarital relationship and cohabitation could affect support.
In addition, dating during your divorce could affect your children emotionally and may in certain instances impact custody. Often children have a hard time with the divorce process and may feel abandoned and hurt. Adding a new relationship into the mix could further alienate and confuse your children.
As mentioned previously, in many cases in which one of the spouses was in a new relationship, the case still resolved without, at times, affecting the settlements negatively. In some cases, however, particularly when someone was left for someone else, dating and finding other outlets to focus your attention can be a great distraction and can help minimize the emotional rollercoaster of the divorce process.
Ultimately, the decision is yours and you have to do what is best for you and your family. However, if this is a concern and you question the impact it could have on your case you should speak with your attorney about your specific concerns.
