Can I Date While Getting Divorced in New York?

Divorce is often an emotionally draining process, and many people understandably want to move forward with their lives as soon as possible. As a Syracuse divorce attorney, one of the most common questions I get asked is: “Can I start dating before my divorce is finalized?”

The short answer: Yes, you can date while your divorce is pending in New York, but you should proceed with caution. While there’s no law that prohibits you from entering into a new relationship before your divorce is complete, doing so can impact your case in several important ways.

1. Dating Won’t Affect Grounds for Divorce

New York is a “no-fault” divorce state, which means you don’t have to prove wrongdoing, such as adultery, to get divorced. Most divorces are filed on the grounds of an “irretrievable breakdown” of the marriage. So, simply beginning a new relationship while your divorce is pending will not stop your divorce from going forward.

2. Financial Issues Could Be Complicated

While dating itself won’t change how marital assets are divided, spending marital funds on a new partner could raise concerns. If you use joint money for gifts, trips, or living expenses with someone new, your spouse may claim “wasteful dissipation of assets.” A judge could require you to reimburse the marital estate, which may reduce your share of the property division.

3. Custody and Parenting Time Considerations

If children are involved, dating during divorce can raise sensitive issues:

• Children’s well-being: Introducing a new partner too soon may cause stress or confusion for children who are still adjusting to the separation.

• Court perception: Judges in New York are required to make custody decisions based on the “best interests of the child.” If dating creates instability, exposes children to conflict, or causes them distress, it could negatively influence custody and parenting time decisions.

4. Emotional and Practical Impact

Divorce is a legal process, but it’s also an emotional one. Dating too early may create unnecessary tension, increase conflict with your spouse, or even make settlement negotiations more difficult. Even if it’s not legally harmful, it can slow down the process and make it more stressful for everyone involved.

Contact a Syracuse Divorce Attorney Today

Before dating while your divorce is still pending, it’s wise to consult with an experienced Syracuse family law attorney who can help you understand how your choices may affect your specific situation. Contact us today for personalized advice about your unique situation.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and guidelines can change, so always verify with current statutes or a professional.