The period between when you and your spouse decide to end your marriage and when you finally sign those dotted lines can be extremely stressful, emotional and financially draining. The decisions you make during this period can greatly impact the outcome of your divorce.
If you have ruled out leaving the marital home during the divorce process, it is important that you avoid mistakes that can hurt your case and post-divorce life. Here are important tips you need to keep in mind while living with your soon-to-be ex under the same roof during the divorce process.
1. Sever financial ties
When you are married, you legally become one. This means that all assets and debts acquired while in marriage belong to both of you. While you are working on your divorce, it is important that you begin separating your finances.
Even if you seem to be on the same page as far as household expenditures go, it is important that you are clear on how you are going to share certain household bills during the divorce period. And if you have joint credit cards, this is the time to terminate them.
2. Set physical boundaries
Intimacy with your spouse during this time can complicate things. Firstly, you might conceive, and that could delay your divorce. Secondly, this could ruin the boundaries you set. Finally, this is bad for your mental health and judgment going forward.
As soon as you agree to divorce, you need to sleep in separate bedrooms. You can even schedule how you will share common places like the living room, kitchen and bathroom.
3. Avoid fighting in front of the kids
Your soon-to-be ex might no longer be your best friend. However, no matter how upset or emotional you are, do not fight in front of your children. Likewise, avoid the temptation to use children as pawns in your fights.
Divorce can be a difficult undertaking no matter the circumstances. Find out how you can safeguard your rights and interests while sharing a home with your soon-to-be ex during the divorce process.
