What Not To Do During Separation in North Carolina?
When you first married, you likely never envisioned facing the emotional and logistical challenges of ending your relationship. The feelings surrounding a couple’s separation can range from sorrow to anger, often influencing behavior in detrimental ways—both financially and emotionally. This impact is not only felt by the couple but can also have lasting effects on the children involved in the situation, adding another layer of complexity.
If you are contemplating a separation in North Carolina, following a set of do’s and don’ts can help you navigate this difficult transition. The guidelines below provide clarity and support as you move forward during this challenging time.
Starting a New Relationship
Moving forward with a new relationship before formally separating from your spouse could expose you to serious legal ramifications. For instance, in North Carolina, the issue of infidelity plays a critical role in determining alimony. If the spouse providing financial support becomes unfaithful, the dependent spouse may be entitled to alimony. In comparison, if the dependent spouse engages in infidelity, this could disqualify them from receiving any alimony.
Moreover, entering into a new romantic relationship before the separation could also result in your spouse seeking legal action against your new partner. This opens the door to potential civil lawsuits based on the emotional or financial distress your spouse may experience as a result of your actions. For these reasons, it is wise to carefully consider the implications of your choices and seek professional legal guidance before proceeding.
Do Not Move Out of the Family Home
Moving out of the family home can be classified as abandonment, especially if your spouse depends on you for financial support. In such cases, a court may issue an order requiring you to pay spousal support or grant your spouse exclusive rights to the marital home. To navigate this challenging situation effectively, consider having an open and honest conversation with your spouse. Discuss who will be responsible for moving out and establish a plan to address your immediate financial obligations to ensure that both parties are supported during this transitional period.
While discussing these arrangements, focus on creating a temporary financial plan that outlines how living expenses and bills will be managed until a formal agreement is reached. Should your spouse refuse to cooperate or if you find it difficult to agree, seek legal guidance. Consulting an experienced North Carolina divorce lawyer can help you understand your rights and obligations, equipping you with the necessary tools to make informed decisions before proceeding with any actions that could further complicate your situation.
Do Not Use Your Children as Pawns
Children should never be treated as weapons in the complex emotional landscape of a divorce. The transition to splitting time between two homes can be a daunting experience for them, filled with feelings of uncertainty and worry. The last thing they need is to feel trapped in the middle of their parents’ disputes or to believe they are somehow responsible for the separation.
You also want to avoid using children as messengers between you and your spouse. If there is something important you need to discuss with your partner, take the adult approach and communicate directly. Children have a unique bond with both parents. Encouraging them to express their affection openly and to speak positively about their other parent fosters their emotional health and well-being. In addition, withholding visitation rights as a form of punishment is unacceptable and can be deeply damaging. If you have legitimate concerns about your child’s safety or emotional well-being while they are in the care of your spouse, it is crucial to seek legal advice. A skilled divorce attorney can guide you on the best steps to safeguard your children’s welfare while navigating this challenging period.
Contact Stephen E. Robertson Law Office Today To Learn More
If you want further information about separating or obtaining a divorce in North Carolina, contact Stephen E. Robertson Law Office today and speak with an experienced North Carolina divorce attorney.