How to Date While Going Through a Divorce
You're going through a divorce, but you feel the need to date. This can turn into a very complicated situation, due to factors such as legal proceedings and potentially hurting the feelings of your children or spouse. Because you are still legally married in the eyes of the law, you are not technically free to date, although the worst-case consequence, according to the Divorce Law Firms website, is being charged with a misdemeanor for adultery, which can happen in North Carolina. Considering all possible effects of dating while going through a divorce, such as explaining the situation to your children or the person you want to date, will help you make the best decision.
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Instructions
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Think carefully about your situation before deciding to date, regardless if you've met someone. Will your dating be used against you by your spouse during divorce proceedings? Could it possibly affect child custody rights or your children's feelings toward you in general, if applicable? Do you still have feelings for your spouse and think reconciliation might occur? These are some of the questions that you must ask yourself before considering dating while going through a divorce.
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Consult with your attorney about your decision and discuss any possible ramifications, if any. Inform the court where your divorce proceedings are taking place of your decision to date, noting that the decision came after the breakdown of your marriage and that you were not seeing other people while still living with your spouse.
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Be prepared to deal with the reaction of your soon-to-be-ex-spouse and children when you break the news. You might want to consider in depth how you will explain your decision to them and why you feel this is necessary for you at this time.
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Discuss your situation with the person you wish to date before getting too heavily involved. Informing someone that you are still legally married and are going through a divorce several dates in can come as a shock, and the person can feel lied to by omission. If you are still in something of a fragile state but still feel like dating is the right thing for you, mention this to the person.
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Tips & Warnings
Dating while going through a divorce is often less difficult if you have been separated for years or your divorce is uncontested.
Dating while going through a divorce can be problematic if divorce proceedings are not going smoothly and you do not inform your attorney of your decision.
References
Resources
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