Make no mistake, divorce is tough on all levels – financially, spiritually and emotionally. If you and your spouse have decided to call it quits on your marriage, one of the most important decisions you will need to make is whether to continue living together under the same roof or not while working on your divorce.
If you decide to live together during the divorce process, it is important that you avoid costly mistakes that can complicate or hurt your case down the road. Here are three important tips that can help you get through while sharing a living space with your soon-to-be ex.
1. Set and maintain clear physical boundaries
Sharing a living space with the person you no longer love can be awkward, to say the least. You want to start by having separate bedrooms. As a rule of thumb, avoid any situations that can lead to intimacy with your spouse. Besides having separate bedrooms, you can also schedule how you will share common places like the kitchen, the living room and the bathroom.
2. Cut any financial ties
Money matters can be a big problem during a divorce. If you operated joint checking and credit card accounts, now is the time to sever financial ties. Close any credit cards you shared even as you notify the bank to freeze any joint accounts you may have while awaiting property division judgment. Work out a shared budget and pay your half of the bills promptly.
3. Mind the kids
No matter what the situation, never let your emotions get the better of you, especially in the presence of the kids. In simple English, do not fight in front of the kids. Do not disparage your spouse in front of the kids, either. These kinds of actions will only complicate your child custody case.
Protecting your rights
The decision to live together while your divorce is underway is entirely yours to make. If you choose to stay, it is important that you know your legal rights and obligations during the divorce process.