Divorce is a complex and emotionally draining process, often marked by uncertainty, sadness and loneliness. It can be tempting to start dating or enter a new relationship during your divorce to make yourself feel better or provide a welcome distraction.
Dating someone new may separate you from your divorce emotions for a while, but there are real consequences to consider. It can impact your relationships and even the outcome of your divorce.
Legal implications
Connecticut is a fault-based divorce state, meaning that marital misconduct, like adultery, can influence property and alimony decisions. If one spouse starts a relationship before the divorce concludes, the other may use this as evidence of infidelity, potentially affecting the financial settlement.
Emotional vulnerability
Divorce can leave you vulnerable and susceptible to rebound relationships. These hastily formed connections can provide short-term comfort but may lack the foundation for a long-term partnership. Rushing into a relationship before you process the turmoil of divorce can hinder emotional healing.
Child custody and visitation
Family court judges carefully consider the stability and well-being of children when determining custody and parenting time arrangements. Introducing a new partner too soon can raise concerns about your home environment, potentially impacting custody decisions.
The impact on kids
Are your children ready to deal with a new person in their lives so soon after your marriage fell apart? Kids need time to accept and adjust to the new family dynamics that govern their lives. Dating too soon could harm their sense of security and psychological health.
Every decision you make during your divorce can influence its outcome, but you need not make your choices alone. Consider obtaining legal guidance to ensure your decisions do nothing to jeopardize your rights.