Divorce can be a lonely journey. Reminding you that there is light on the other side of the tunnel is what your new partner can do during the tough times. Moreover, it is a good feeling to have a shoulder to lean on when you almost feel alone.
By the time someone files for a divorce, the marriage may have been broken quite some time ago. The divorce may seem nothing more than a legal formality. But, no matter how long ago the spouses have been separated, dating new people and moving on with their lives can be thorny. The Knoxville divorce attorney is the best person to tell you how to go about dating during your divorce. For now, we are giving you some guidelines to consider if you’re dating someone while navigating your divorce.
If you ask the divorce lawyers in Knoxville TN, dating is not ideal when you are going through a divorce. It simply adds stress and aggravation to an already sensitive process. But, if you are already seeing someone while your divorce is getting processed, keep in mind the below-given dos and don’ts.
We shall have a look at the don’ts of the divorce first
Do not date before physically separating from your spouse –
Such a situation tends to increase the cost and makes the case more complex than it already is. From a legal standpoint, the judge might see infidelity as the reason for the separation and divorce. This has the potential to negatively impact your divorce agreement and custody right if you have children. Hence, the Knoxville attorney suggests the clients not date before physical separation.
Do not date openly during divorce –
If you date openly, it can cause your ex-spouse to turn their back on the previously accepted agreement. This gives the opposite party the chance to say you were having an extramarital affair. In addition to this, your new partner could be called in court to testify under oath in a deposition about the relationship and when it began and key details.
Stay away from dating apps –
We do know they have made finding companions easy, but they will make your divorce process difficult. You may think all your information is anonymous, but this is not true. Any information you decide to put on the internet is wide and open to the public. This can be used against you if your ex discovers it. At the very least, be very careful what your dating profile reads and how it would look to the judge.
Don’t introduce your children to the new love interest –
The divorce process is a lot for the children to process and accept. It creates confusion and havoc in their lives. On top of this, if you introduce your children to a new person, it can worsen their state of mind and cause more pain and confusion.
Do not get pregnant or impregnate someone –
Pregnancy will delay the process of divorce until the baby is born. This is to verify the paternity and also decide things like custody and child support. This will significantly increase the time and expense of the process.
Don’t think you are alone in this divorce process –
You are not alone, you have your family and friends and also your Knoxville lawyer who will let you vent out on your difficult days. Your friends are there to make you laugh. Remember, life will get better.
Now let’s look at the do’s
Reach out for support during divorce –
There are many support groups to help you and your children get through the tough days of your life. Keep an eye for signs that you are experiencing Post-traumatic growth. This is a realization that there can be a positive aspect to a life crisis.
Do socialize and network in groups –
Stay in groups with friends. Hanging out more with opposite sex person can give an impression of an extramarital affair. Avoid this if you are still not separated from your spouse.
Be careful when your children are around –
If you are already in a romantic relationship, be careful of your words and actions when you are around your children. The things you say can come back and haunt you in court. If there is something you would hesitate to speak about in front of the judge, you shouldn’t say that in front of your children as well. This will keep you safe and keep your case stronger.
Be honest with your potential new romantic partner –
If you meet someone and want a future with them, share your situation with them and explain to them why it is a good idea to not start dating until the divorce is final. We are sure he/she would appreciate your honesty. Keep in mind, as hard as it may seem, it is only a phase that will pass with time. The simpler you keep everything, the faster the process will move and you will be free. After which you can live your life on your terms and conditions.
The Knoxville lawyers will help you understand your option if you wish to complete your divorce without having to go to court.
Conclusion –
Dating a new person can bring back the happiness and excitement of a new relationship. But, when it happens before your divorce is final, it can bring in a lot of problems, disputes and issues. Respecting the legal process and avoiding things that will worsen your case will help you protect yourself, your children and your life after divorce. Moreover, it will keep you in a strong position and you won’t have to compromise on what you deserve. If you want to know more about dating before divorce, the Knoxville divorce attorney at the Volunteer law firm will help you out.
