Your marriage is over and your divorce is underway. Divorce can take a long time and you have been lonely a long time, too. You met someone or you would like to meet someone — is it okay to date during your divorce? This can be a complex question, perhaps not surprisingly! The best thing to do is speak with a New York divorce lawyer, but in this post, we will give you some background on whether or not dating during divorce is appropriate or commonly done.
The answer depends on you, but there are some things you should know.
Our law firm has decades of experience providing matrimonial and divorce counsel to clients working through the frustrating and often painful process of divorce. We are sensitive to your personal issues and protective of your custodial and financial rights. Dating during divorce is as much a matter of the head as the heart. Consider these points:
- Divorce is exceptionally difficult for children, even during an amicable divorce. Introducing new partners or expecting your children to transition to your dating lifestyle during divorce could create lifetime resentment in your children — and that could affect your legal case for custody.
- A new relationship during this difficult time could ease some of your stress. Similarly, if your spouse begins dating during your divorce, it could be a positive change — a happy ex is much easier to negotiate with than an angry lonely ex.
- Some people are ready to start a new life, some people aren’t. Do not feel pressured to jump into the next relationship. You may need some time to heal before you bring another person into your life.
Despite the difficulty of divorce, the process demands restraint and civility. Do what makes you happy, but be mindful and respectful of the other people in your life. Divorce rarely terminates your relationship with your spouse – if you have children a shared business, or the same friends, you may still see each other. But if the right person comes along, conclusion of your divorce will promise a bright future. And whatever you do – do not post pictures or updates with your new partner on social media until the divorce is done!
With any aspect of matrimonial or divorce in New York, speak with our attorneys for experienced advice.