Most couples who pursue divorce have been emotionally detached for a while, and since it can take months to finalize a divorce, it is not surprising that people often start dating before their marriage has legally ended. Dating during divorce proceedings can hurt you in the long run, though, especially if you have children and are currently fighting for custody.
According to Forbes, the mere act of joining an online dating site can jeopardize your case during divorce proceedings, and it is common for family court to admit evidence from social media sites and texting conversations. Many divorcing individuals pull evidence of their spouse’s indiscretions from Facebook, but sites like Twitter and Instagram are also fair game.
If you want to start dating but you are in the middle of a contentious custody battle, contact Behrens Law Firm, LLC to determine the best way to proceed. Barbara L. Behrens has peen representing clients with children for more than three decades, and she will help you avoid making costly mistakes during the custody proceedings. Call 314-499-6999 to schedule a consultation with a child custody lawyer in St. Louis.
Will My Dating Life Affect the Custody Arrangement?
Family law judges consider a variety of factors when determining custody and visitation. These include each parent’s ability to provide a stable, loving home.
Although your dating life may not necessarily affect your ability to provide a stable home, the court may see it differently, especially if you introduce your children to a new partner fairly early in the relationship. Adjusting to life with divorced parents is challenging for children, and they need time to transition from a two-parent household to two one-parent households.
The court wants to see that both you and your ex-spouse will facilitate this transition by remaining on good terms with each other. If one or both of you starts dating during the proceedings, it could cause additional tension because emotions are probably still running high.
The court is also going to consider the safety of your children when determining custody, and your ex may try to argue that your current partner poses a risk. If you do intend on dating during divorce proceedings, it is essential that you know as much as possible about any individuals you introduce to your children.
If it turns out you are dating someone with a criminal record, a history of addiction, or limitations on contact with his or her own biological children, your ex can and probably will use it against you during the custody hearing. Likewise, you should learn as much as possible about anyone whom your ex brings around your children to ensure their safety.
In general, it is best to avoid dating during divorce proceedings. If you have found someone whom you connect with, though, consider limiting his or her contact with your children until the custody arrangement is finalized.
If you are considering divorce, turn to Behrens Law Firm, LLC for quality legal counsel during every step of the proceedings. Call 314-499-6999 to schedule a consultation with a divorce attorney in St. Louis. You can learn more about child custody in Missouri by visiting the USAttorneys website.
