The divorce process in Tennessee can take longer than you may hope. In the meantime, you may wonder what to do about your living situation. To make the best decision for you and your family, there are a few factors to consider before deciding whether to leave the marital home.
Think about your finances
Divorce is often expensive enough without having to pay for a second home. Consider your financial resources and how much you would need to spend if you moved out of the house.
If finances are tight, it may be best to stay in the same house until the divorce is finalized. This allows you to save money or improve your career prospects while waiting for the divorce to finalize, which can be particularly helpful if you previously left the workforce to care for your family.
Consider the legal ramifications
During the divorce process, major assets like a house will be divided between you and your former spouse. This aspect of your divorce could be more complicated if you choose to move out before your divorce is finalized.
Likewise, if you have children with your spouse, moving out without an existing child custody agreement can be risky. It is important to understand the potential legal implications of any significant decisions you make during the divorce process, especially if it concerns custody of your children.
Understand the emotional implications
In many cases, moving out can provide both physical and emotional distance from a tumultuous situation. Doing so could give you space to focus on self-care and rebuilding your life.
On the other hand, a move could also be emotionally draining for you and any other affected family members, only adding to the stress of the divorce. In some cases, staying in the home can provide some emotional comfort during an otherwise difficult transition period.
No matter your circumstances, deciding to move out during a divorce is complex and deeply personal. However, weighing the financial, legal and emotional implications of a move can help give you the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.