When your relationship is broken beyond repair and you decide to divorce, one of the questions you are likely to grapple with is whether you should leave the marital home before finalizing the divorce or not. And this is understandable, especially if the divorce is contested.
Living together with someone you no longer love is no walk in the park. If you decide to live together during the divorce – due to financial constraints or the desire to maintain contact with the children – it is important that you come up with a survival plan.
Here are three tips that could help while living together during the divorce process:
Define each party’s space in the home
Some couples are fortunate to have large homes where each party can have their own private space. Having your own space enhances privacy. It also allows you to keep your possessions without having to cross paths with your soon-to-be ex more often.
Be clear about each party’s financial obligations
While things were normal, you probably had a joint household budget. With divorce underway, however, chances are you have severed your financial ties with your spouse. But since you will be sharing the home, you need to figure out how to share expenses like utility bills, rent or mortgage as well as grocery bills. Keep in mind that the overall goal is to get along in the least dramatic manner possible, especially if you have kids.
Be respectful of each other
Speaking of kids, one of the most important rules you need to observe while living together is to avoid fights in front of your children. This is only possible when there is mutual respect. No matter how you feel about your spouse, do not disparage them, especially in the presence of the children. This could amount to parental alienation and they can use it against you when litigation child custody.
Divorce can be difficult on every level –emotionally, financially and spiritually. Learning more about Georgia divorce laws can help you safeguard your rights and interests during the process.