Can you date while going through a divorce in Missouri?

Divorce can be one of the most legally complex, but also emotional situations in Missouri. While in the process of being in a divorce different situations can come crashing in. A common question that gets asked is if it’s ok in the state of Missouri to date another individual while going through the process of a divorce. The answer you are looking for is yes, but not always the best path to go down. Here’s why:

No Fault Divorce State

Missouri runs under what is called a No-Fault divorce system. This means that when a judge ultimately rules that the relationship between the two spouses are clearly broken, neither spouse needs to prove fault. Proving fault would be getting divorced by an example of abuse. However, even in a no fault state like Missouri, specific conduct during the relationship can alter some divorce changes and outcomes.

It’s not Illegal to Date, But Risky

There is no exact law limiting dating during a divorce, but in any divorce case, actions of this may alter some outcomes when the divorce is finalized.

• Property Division: If dating involves using assets from the marriage, say for dinner or even vacations. A court may look at it and use this as a dissipation of property. They then could adjust the compensation and alter the hearing.
• Alimony: The judge will oversee each of the spouses actions during the process of divorce. If one of the spouses is in another relationship this can show financial dependency. This would be if the spouse moved in with someone else. This could reflect on a maintenance claim.
• Child Custody: In every court, the top priority and always the top thing to consider is the child’s safety. A new partner’s record could be investigated and could alter the court’s decision. Bringing a new partner into the family could also make the child’s life very difficult to understand.

Practical Risks

Besides the legal justifications, the practical risks are:

• Costs and Time: In court, dating can prolong the disputes of getting to the final decision of the hearing. With prolonging the case, unwanted fees could also make an appearance.
• Stress: Divorce itself can be really hard on any spouse. An additional relationship can really make it hard for both spouses to communicate and make the divorce work smoothly. Minimizing this experience could relieve some weight on each of the spouses shoulders.
• Impact on Children: Most importantly it is crucial to keep the children first. Whether it’s a 6 year old or a 16 year old child, they should come first. Confusion can set in for the children and also favoritism could play a factor between the relationships.

When is it Safe to Date?

Again, While dating isn’t illegal there are two safe approaches to it. The first great approach is to start dating after the divorce has been finalized. This lets the finances and all of the criteria be finished. The other safe option that is a possibility is if needing to be dating before the final hearing. Make sure to have all major disputes to be over. This makes sure each of the spouses financial stability isn’t intertwined and will have the court hearing finish smoother. These two options can make it simpler and less stressful for both spouses. 

Columbia Family Law Group’s Thought

Here at Columbia Family Law Group, we advise a smart and informed approach to this situation. When working with us, we can help evaluate the impacts of the situation and also guide timing and boundaries to make the process of divorce easier. We understand the stressfulness of divorce and want to make sure your future is accounted for.

Thinking about dating while getting a divorce? Contact us today for a qualified representative of our firm to look over your case.