6 Reason Not to Date While Going Through a Divorce~ 2 min read

So, you might be wondering, can you start dating while you’re in the middle of a divorce? Well, technically, you can. But let’s talk about why you might want to think twice about it.

First off, it’s important to realize that dating during a divorce can make an already tough situation even tougher. Here’s why:

1. Hurting Feelings: Jumping into a new relationship too soon can hurt your soon-to-be-ex-spouse’s feelings. It might seem like you’re moving on too quickly, which can reopen emotional wounds and make the divorce process more painful for everyone involved.
2. Confusion for Kids: If there are children in the picture, dating during a divorce can be confusing and upsetting for them. Children may feel betrayed or abandoned if they perceive that you’re replacing their other parent or entire family. It’s essential to prioritize your children’s emotional well-being and proceed with caution when it comes to introducing them to new romantic interests.
3. Financial Problems: Dating can also bring up financial issues. Any money you spend on your new partner could be seen as a misuse of marital assets, which could complicate the divorce proceedings. Financial transparency is crucial during divorce proceedings, so it’s wise to avoid any unnecessary expenditures that could raise eyebrows.
4. Misconduct Concerns: Even if you didn’t cheat on your spouse, dating during a divorce can raise suspicions of misconduct or infidelity, which may impact issues such as child custody, spousal maintenance, and the division of assets. Your ex might assume that you were seeing someone else before the separation, which can lead to anger and resentment. Even if you haven’t engaged in any misconduct, the mere perception of dating too soon could complicate matters and prolong the divorce process.
5. Privacy Matters: If you do decide to date, it’s essential to keep it discreet, especially if you have children. Bringing a new partner into the picture too soon can be confusing and upsetting for kids. It’s essential to be mindful of the timing and the potential impact on yourself and others.  You do not want to advertise your new relationship across social media, where anyone could see it or it could be used against you in court.
6. Financial Transparency: Be careful about spending money on your new relationship. Every charge on your credit card could be scrutinized during the divorce process, so it’s best to avoid any unnecessary expenses.

In conclusion, while it might be tempting to jump back into the dating pool during your divorce, but it’s essential to consider the potential consequences. Take your time to focus on yourself and your family during this challenging time and save the dating adventures for later.

Contact Family Ally

If you have questions or need legal assistance regarding divorce or any other family law matter, please contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to schedule a consultation. Family Ally is located at 130 S. Bemiston Ave., Suite 608, St. Louis, MO 63105.