Is It Okay to Date While My Illinois Divorce Is Pending?

The need for companionship is only human. For many, the end of marriage offers hope of a brighter future with a new romantic interest. If you are in the middle of a divorce or soon will be, you may wonder if it is okay to start dating while the divorce is still ongoing. You may even already have a boyfriend or girlfriend and you are wondering how this can influence your divorce. Only you can know if dating during divorce is right for you, but it is important to know how dating during divorce can affect your divorce proceedings.

Dating During Divorce May Have Personal and Emotional Implications

If you do decide to date during your divorce, you should know that this may increase the level of contention between you and your spouse. Divorces are already quite emotional. Dating someone new before the marriage is officially over may lead to anger and resentment. You and your spouse may have planned on an uncontested divorce, but your spouse suddenly changes his or her mind once he or she learns that you are dating someone new.

Dating During Divorce Can Lead to Financial and Child-Related Consequences

Dissipation of assets occurs when a spouse uses property and funds for a purpose not related to the marriage while the marriage is undergoing a breakdown. The most classic example of dissipation is using funds or property to finance an affair. Dating during a divorce may lead to accusations of infidelity and dissipation.

Dating during divorce also has the potential of influencing child custody issues. Your spouse may have concerns about your new dating partner being around your children. If your dating partner has previously been in trouble with the law or has a history of domestic violence, there may be safety concerns with the children. Illinois courts always make child-related determinations based on what is in the child’s best interests. If the court thinks that your new partner may negatively affect your child’s mental or physical well-being, you could be awarded a lesser share of the parenting time.

Contact a Cook County Divorce Lawyer

Dating during a divorce has the potential to influence several aspects of your divorce. For legal guidance regarding divorce issues such as property division, spousal maintenance, child custody, and more, turn to the trusted legal professionals at Botti Marinaccio, LTD. A knowledgeable Hinsdale divorce attorney from our firm can help you understand all of your legal rights and responsibilities during divorce and guide you through the process from beginning to end. Call our office today at 630-575-8585 to schedule a personalized case evaluation and consultation.

Sources:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/075000050k503.htm

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=6000000&SeqEnd=8300000

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/dating-during-divorce-not_b_1340242