Would getting engaged while separated mess up my divorce filing?

Hey everyone, I’ve been separated for about 6 months and I’m thinking about getting engaged. Just wondering if that might mess with my divorce filing at all? I’m still in the middle of it, probably filing next week. Anyone have any idea if it could cause any issues legally? Thanks!

I don’t think it’ll directly affect your divorce filing, but it might make things a bit trickier with your spouse. If things are already tense, it could cause more issues with negotiation. Just something to keep in mind.

@Rowan
Yeah, I agree. If you’re already in a bad spot with your spouse, it could make everything more complicated. Maybe better to wait until it’s fully finalized?

@Rowan
Could also impact things like asset division or alimony if you’re mixing finances before everything’s settled. Not sure how it works in all states though.

I’m no lawyer, but I think as long as you’re legally separated and not doing anything illegal, an engagement itself shouldn’t cause trouble. But yeah, emotionally it could make things more heated.

Amelia said:
I’m no lawyer, but I think as long as you’re legally separated and not doing anything illegal, an engagement itself shouldn’t cause trouble. But yeah, emotionally it could make things more heated.

Exactly, that’s what I was thinking. Legally, no issue, but emotionally it could blow up. Especially if there’s already bad blood.

I had a similar situation, and honestly, the engagement didn’t impact my divorce. But like others said, it could make negotiating harder.

Tabbisons said:
I had a similar situation, and honestly, the engagement didn’t impact my divorce. But like others said, it could make negotiating harder.

I agree. My ex didn’t like me moving on, and it made everything a lot messier. But in the end, it didn’t affect the filing process, just made things more stressful.

It seems like as long as you’re legally separated, your engagement won’t be a legal issue. It could complicate negotiations though, depending on your spouse’s reaction.

Brynn said:
It seems like as long as you’re legally separated, your engagement won’t be a legal issue. It could complicate negotiations though, depending on your spouse’s reaction.

Right, but if you’re already dealing with a restraining order, it sounds like your spouse isn’t going to be reasonable anyway. So it might not even matter.

Just make sure your separation agreement lets you date if you’re concerned about potential legal problems. Otherwise, I don’t see any reason to worry.

Day said:
Just make sure your separation agreement lets you date if you’re concerned about potential legal problems. Otherwise, I don’t see any reason to worry.

Yeah, exactly. A clear separation agreement should cover you legally, so your engagement won’t be an issue.