Dating During Divorce

In Chicago divorces typically take from 6 months to 3 years to resolve. There is a lot of stress and loneliness for the parties involved. A new “significant other” can often provide you the emotional support you need. If you find yourself falling in love with someone new, there are some precautions you need to take.

Flaunting your significant other to your spouse, or introducing them to your children before they are ready is unwise. Your spouse may not be ready to see you move on with your life. Similarly, your children might be resentful of a new person taking the place of the other parent. Either situation could result in unnecessary conflict.

Also, if you are spending money on your new love, the court could find that you are dissipating marital assets and may deduct this from your marital settlement. Similarly, dating before you are divorced is technically “infidelity” and – if you are untactful – it could make you look like a bad person in front of the judge.

It is natural and healthy to want to move on with your life. Finding a new love is part of the process. The key to dating during a divorce is to be tactful, discreet and respectful of the feelings of everyone involved.

Advice: Use common sense.

Marie Fahnert is a Chicago divorce attorney. Her practice is focused exclusively on family law. Marie is available to speak with you at 312.235.2352. Her office address is:

Fahnert, LLC
25 East Washington Street, Suite 1732
Chicago, Illinois 60602