Should You Move Out of Your Home During a Divorce?

There are a lot of potentially stressful issues that you will encounter during your divorce, not the least of which is the choice of whether you should move out of your home during the process. Your home could possibly be your most valuable asset, and you have likely built up a lot of sentimental attachment to it as well.

So what are some things that you should consider when deciding whether to move out?

• Your personal comfort and safety. If you believe that you would be in any danger by staying in your home, the choice is a no-brainer — get out as soon as you can, and take your children with you. If you are concerned about domestic violence, there is also the option to ask a judge to order your abusive spouse to move away. If the issue is simply that you are uncomfortable and that continuing to live together with your spouse would pose some challenges, then you need to consider potential custody and property arrangements.
• Child custody. The primary custody-related dilemma is that if you move out without your children, your ex could portray the situation as you causing a disruption in their lives. You can avoid potentially being penalized by writing down a parenting agreement before either parent moves out, with a clear-cut schedule and an agreement that neither parent is giving up custody rights. You can also ask the courts to create such a schedule if you and your spouse cannot come to an agreement.
• Property concerns. Who will get the house after the divorce? As soon as you leave, your chances of keeping the property significantly decline. However, another major factor in determining who gets the house is the financial standing of each spouse. Higher-earning spouses that move out will still be expected to pay some household expenses, but even then, the lesser-earning spouse may not have enough money to hang on to the home.

For more information and guidance on what you should expect if you were to move out of your home during the divorce process, contact the experienced family law attorneys at Bryan L. Salamone & Associates.