Although
it may be tempting to begin a new relationship while you are going through
a
divorce. It would be best to hold off
until your divorce is finalized for a myriad of reasons; such as the increase
in cost and stress of the divorce.
Dating a new person during an already stress-filled tumultuous time,
could cause more tension between you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse; resulting
in your spouse becoming angry and vindictive, lengthening the process and raising
legal fees.
In many cases the interaction and
interrelationship of a child, with any person who may significantly affect the
child’s best interests, is a determining factor that is considered in
determining the allocation of parental rights and responsibilities of
children. If you have a new girlfriend
or boyfriend so soon after separation, or during the pendency of your divorce
proceedings, you may be seen as unstable and that your priorities are
misaligned. If you decide to introduce
the significant other to your children before the divorce is over or very soon
thereafter, you look self-centered and like you aren’t putting your children’s
best interests first. The way you are
perceived by the court is very important.
A domestic relations court, most
likely, will not penalize someone who begins dating before the divorce is
finalized; however, your new “friend” could be subject to deposition by
opposing counsel as well as subpoenaed to testify at trial. This conduct could
result in a lot of unnecessary aggravation and costs. Further, the conduct of the parties during
the marriage, as well as actions during the pendency of the case may be used to
determine maintenance and awarding of attorney fees.
For more information regarding this
topic, or to schedule an appointment with Joseph Stafford, call 216-241-1074.
