Going through a divorce in Michigan is tough, and it’s understandable that you can’t wait to move on with your new life. For many people, moving on after a divorce means dating a new significant other. But before you start making plans with your new partner, you should consider how dating will affect your divorce.
Dating a new partner can complicate an ongoing divorce
Dating before your divorce is finalized could be fine if you keep the romance very low-key. However, there is a good chance that it will complicate your divorce and add unnecessary drama to the situation. Your soon-to-be ex-spouse could use your dating life against you in court. Here are some ways that dating could complicate your ongoing divorce:
• You could be accused of adultery.
• Marital funds spent on your new partner will be questioned.
• Your new relationship could be blamed for the breakup.
• Child custody decisions could be affected by the new relationship.
Because of all of these potential problems, it is much more advisable to refrain from dating until after your divorce is finalized. If you are already in a new relationship, spending money on your new partner or having your new partner around your children could be used against you in divorce court. It is also important to be aware that adultery is still a felony charge in Michigan.
Dating is much less complicated after a divorce is finalized
Once your marital assets have been divided and a custody agreement has been reached, dating should be much less of a problem. After your divorce is finalized, you will own your portion of the marital assets and be free to spend them how you wish. If you have a shared custody agreement, your ex-spouse would only be able to interfere with your new relationship if your partner was abusive towards the children.
