Divorce is emotionally and mentally draining. The process is filled with tough decisions and major life changes. It’s tempting to find comfort in relationships at this time. For some, this includes new romantic relationships. But are there risks to thinking about long-term commitments and a future with someone new before your divorce is finalized? Here’s what you should know.
No Legal Restrictions
Florida has no legal restrictions preventing you from getting engaged before your divorce is finalized. However, there are some important factors to consider before taking this step.
Engagement, unlike marriage, is not a legal status in Florida. It’s simply a personal promise between two people to marry at some point in the future. Therefore, no laws stop you from getting engaged during a divorce. If you feel ready to make a commitment to a new partner during this difficult time, you are legally allowed to do so.
Unlike engagement, you cannot legally remarry in Florida until your divorce is finalized. This means that even if you get engaged during the divorce process, you must wait for your current marriage to be legally dissolved before you can walk down the aisle again. The finalization of a divorce includes the signing of a judgment by the court, which can sometimes take months or even years depending on the complexity of the case and any disputes between the parties.
Why It Might Be Better to Wait
No laws prevent you from getting engaged before your divorce is final. However, there are several reasons why it might be wise to wait until the divorce process is over before making this significant life decision.
- Emotional clarity: Divorce is an emotionally challenging time. It can be difficult to have full clarity about your future while still processing the end of a marriage. Rushing into an engagement during this period may lead to decisions that are based more on emotion than on careful consideration. Taking time to heal from the divorce and reflect on your past relationship can provide more insight into what you truly want moving forward.
- Impact on the divorce proceedings: Getting engaged during a divorce rarely affects the legal outcome. But it could complicate things emotionally. If your soon-to-be ex-spouse finds out that you are engaged, it could lead to resentment. This could create problems during negotiations about things like asset division, child custody, and spousal support more contentious. A smooth divorce process can be difficult enough without adding additional emotional strain.
- Consideration for children: If you have children, getting engaged during a divorce might confuse or upset them. Divorce is already a difficult transition for kids, and introducing a new significant other into their lives during this time can make things even more complex. Waiting until after the divorce is finalized to announce an engagement may help ease this transition for your children.
It’s a Personal Choice
Ultimately, whether you decide to get engaged before your divorce is finalized is a personal decision. Some people find that moving forward with a new relationship brings them joy and stability during a challenging time. Others prefer to wait until their divorce is fully behind them. Whatever you decide, it’s important to consider the emotional, legal, and financial implications of your decision and to prioritize your well-being during the divorce process.
If you’re unsure about how an engagement might affect your divorce, it’s always a good idea to consult with a Florida divorce attorney who can offer guidance based on your specific circumstances. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact the Geller Law Firm.
