A Rhode Island Divorce isn't Over until it's OVER!
August 30, 2013
Authored By: Christopher Pearsall, RI Divorce Attorney
a.k.a. " The Rhode Island Divorce Coach ℠ "
I can't tell you how many Rhode Island divorce clients that I've had to instruct NOT to begin dating during their divorce proceeding.
Though each person is different and it may well be a personal choice that the client makes at that point, it isn't advisable to date, particularly if you have children.
Just the mention of a girlfriend or boyfriend in a divorce proceeding can wreak havoc in your divorce proceeding depending upon the judge and depending upon how hard the opposing party works to emphasize the existence of a person who may be cast as a "home wrecker".
Though your feelings may be gone for your spouse or you may have found that new person who sparks your interest and makes you feel "in love again", you are still married to your spouse until that final decree of divorce is signed by the judge.
As long as you remain legally married to your spouse, the Rhode Island family court judge assigned to hear your divorce may consider your conduct during the course of the marriage. I can honestly say that no judge will look favorably on the fact that you have a new girlfriend or boyfriend in the picture before you've properly settled your affairs with your current spouse.
If you don't want to risk losing a portion of your assets or call into question your fitness as a parent, then it is best NOT to date as long as you are legally married to your spouse.
Remember, it's not over . . . until it's OVER! When your Rhode Island Final Decree of Divorce has been signed by the judge and sealed by the court, then you can breathe a small sigh of relief that your divorce is over.