Labre Law Office | Family Law & Criminal Defense Lawyer | Edwardsburg, MI

Can You Date During a Divorce in Michigan?

February 1, 2025 – Rob LaBre

Are you in the middle of a divorce in Michigan? You might be wondering, “Can you date during a divorce?” Maybe you have separated for a while or feel ready to move on. Before you start dating, there are a few things to know.

Dating during a divorce can be tricky, both legally and emotionally. In this blog, our divorce lawyers in Michigan will break down everything you need to consider about dating while going through a divorce in Michigan. Whether you’re eager to move forward or just curious about the risks, keep reading to learn how your choices could impact your divorce case and future.

Understanding the Divorce Process

Divorce proceedings can be complex and emotionally challenging. Understanding the stages involved is essential. In Michigan, the divorce process begins with one spouse filing a petition for divorce, which must be served to the other spouse. The responding spouse then has a certain amount of time to respond to the petition. The divorce process can be contested or uncontested, depending on whether both spouses agree on the terms of the divorce.

During the divorce process, several issues must be resolved, including child custody, property division, and spousal support. A qualified divorce attorney will help guide you through the process and protect your rights.

Michigan is a No-Fault State

Michigan is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you don’t need to prove cheating or other misconduct to obtain a divorce. But even if fault isn’t required to file for divorce, your behavior during the divorce process can still influence key aspects of your case. While the law doesn’t outright forbid you to begin dating, it’s not always a good idea.

How Dating Can Impact Your Divorce

Dating during divorce and entering new relationships might feel like freedom, but it can have some messy consequences.

1. Custody Battles: The Best Interests of Your Kids

In Michigan, child custody decisions are based on what’s in the best interests of the child. If your spouse finds out you’re dating, they might argue that your new relationship is bad for the kids. Especially if your partner has a shady background or if you’re spending less time focusing on your children.

Considering the emotional toll on children when planning future relationships should be at the forefront. Think about this: Will introducing a new partner into your kids’ lives make them feel more stable or stressed? The court’s primary goal is to protect the kids. Any new relationship that causes drama or instability could potentially harm your custody case.

2. Alimony and Financial Fallout

Michigan courts usually do not consider fault when awarding spousal support. However, they might take a closer look at your finances if you are in a new relationship. For example, if your new partner helps you financially, your soon-to-be ex might say you need less alimony. And if you’re spending marital assets on a new partner, that could come back to bite you when it’s time to divide property.

3. Emotional Turbulence and Lengthy Divorce

Let’s face it: Divorce is already emotionally charged, and new relationships can further complicate matters. If you start dating, your ex might feel angry, betrayed, or vengeful. This could lead to more arguments, drawn-out negotiations, and a longer divorce process. Sometimes, waiting to date until the ink is dry on your divorce papers can save you a lot of headaches (and legal fees).

Timing Is Everything

Divorce is a rollercoaster of emotions, and jumping into a new relationship too soon might complicate your healing process. Taking the time to reflect and focus on yourself can make your next relationship stronger and healthier.

When Can You Start Dating?

The question of when you can start dating during a divorce is complex. While no specific rule prohibits dating during a divorce, you should consider potential consequences.

Generally, we recommend waiting until the divorce is finalized before starting to date to help avoid any potential complications or conflicts that may arise during the divorce process. However, if you do decide to date during a divorce, it’s important to be discreet and respectful of your soon-to-be ex-spouse’s feelings.

FAQs About Dating During a Divorce in Michigan

Can I introduce my new partner to my children?

Introducing a new partner too early may confuse or upset your children. This is especially true if they are already struggling with the divorce. Courts often frown on anything that disrupts a child’s stability. It’s usually best to wait and avoid dating until after the divorce is finalized (or until your relationship is more serious).

Will dating affect property division?

Michigan follows the rule of equitable distribution, meaning that the state divides marital property fairly, though not necessarily equally. If your former spouse claims you wasted marital funds on a new partner or new relationships, the court could adjust the property distribution to make things “fair.”

Can my spouse use my dating life against me?

If your dating impacts your kids or finances, your ex’s attorney could use that to argue against your interests. It’s critical to tread carefully and consult your divorce lawyer before taking any big steps.

When in Doubt, Ask a Michigan Family Law Attorney at LaBre Law Office

Divorce is hard enough without adding extra drama. If you’re unsure how dating might affect your case, seeking legal advice is always better. At LaBre Law Office, excellence is our standard. Our divorce lawyers in Michigan give you honest, straightforward guidance so you can make smart decisions for your future.

Are you ready to talk? Contact us at (269) 431-2058 or complete our confidential online form to schedule your consultation. We’re here to help you navigate this challenging time and protect what matters most—your kids, assets, and peace of mind.

Copyright © 2025. LaBre Law Office. All rights reserved.

The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

LaBre Law Office
68897 Cass St,
Edwardsburg, MI 49112
(269) 431-2058
https://labrelaw.com/

Edwardsburg, MI divorce lawyers answer, "Can you date during a divorce?" Call (269) 431-2058 to schedule a consultation if you are contemplating divorce.

Contact Us

Every situation is different and requires personalized legal strategy and attention. Tell us about your current situation and we would be happy to discuss your legal options. We have the skills, experience and resources needed to provide you with compassionate legal service.

Contact Form

* Required Fields

We respect your privacy. The information you provide will be used to answer your question or to schedule an Appointment if requested.

Related Blog Posts

Please Enter Your Number For Callback

Request Callback