Yes – you could date.
The question is whether you should date.
I find that dating during a divorce can jam people up in three ways:
1. Custody. Sometimes a parent spends far too much time with the new flame and neglects their children in the process. Or the children are not ready to accept a “substitute” for their mother or father causing resentment and a rejection of that parent. Or the new beau has some “skeletons” such that judge would take issue with him/her being around the children.
2. Alimony and property division. Judges strive to be fair but they do carry a certain set of values or beliefs. (There is a person under that black robe). Judges have great discretion in deciding issues of spousal support and property distribution. It’s not wise to potentially give the judge a reason to not respect you or think you need less because you are involved in a blossoming long-term relationship.
3. Settlement. There’s always the possibility that your soon to be ex will be pissed off because you have moved on. In turn, they focus less on an amicable settlement and much more on retribution through litigation. Your legal fees and anxiety sky rocket.
My advice:
Wait to date – but if you meet be discreet.
I represent divorce clients throughout Fairfield County including Easton, Fairfield, Monroe, Trumbull, Stratford, Bridgeport, Westport, Weston, New Canaan, Wilton, Norwalk, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich.
Contact me online or call my Fairfield office at (203) 259-5251 or my Stamford office at (203) 356-1475 if you have questions about Connecticut divorce.