Gelman Family Law Lawyers

Over 200+ 5-Star Google Reviews

Book Consult

My Ex Started Dating, But We’re Living in the Same House

Published: July 12, 2013

Book Consult1-844-736-0200

Table of Contents

My Ex Started Dating, But We’re Living in the Same House

If you’re still living with your ex, whether you’re still navigating the separation process with the help of a Mississauga divorce lawyer or you’ve already completed your divorce and share the same roof for financial reasons, you’re bound to face some sticky situations. But what happens when another adult is thrown into the mix—like when your ex starts dating someone new?

Keep Your Mississauga Divorce Lawyer in the Loop

While you’re still married, dating shouldn’t be on your “To Do” list. Your Mississauga divorce lawyer probably already warned you about the perils of seeing someone before your divorce is finalized—but your ex might not have gotten the memo. Tell your lawyer right away if your ex is seeing someone, even if you don’t live together; it might affect your case.

Divorced but Cohabitating

There are many factors that can lead to a divorced couple sharing space. From financial constraints to sharing time with the kids, it happens more often than you might think. When one of you starts dating, which you’re free to do as long as your Mississauga divorce lawyer has given you the green light, things can get tense.

When you cohabitate with your ex, it’s hard to break the habit of seeing him or her as an attachment figure, according to Samantha Joel, a Ph.D. student at the University of Toronto. Seeing a new flame come into the picture, even if you think your relationship is completely over, can be pretty painful. At the very least, you’ll feel a little weird knowing your ex is with someone else; that’s okay. In fact, it’s completely normal.

The best way to deal with a situation like this is head-on. Lay a few ground rules with your ex so you can preserve your sanity and keep your personal space. You might ask your ex to keep his or her dating relationships out of the house, or you might even decide it’s time for one of you to go; whatever you choose, make sure it’s realistic.

If you seem to be caught in an inescapable situation, such as being forced to stay in the same house because you can’t afford to move (or you can’t get your ex to leave), call your Mississauga divorce lawyer. He or she might be able to provide some fresh insight or strategies that can help you deal with your ex’s exploits.

Written by Lisa Gelman

Senior Lawyer

Senior Lawyer Lisa Gelman has over 25 years of family law experience and founded Gelman & Associates to provide strategic legal counsel in family law matters concerning divorce, parenting, separation, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions - divorce & separation

If you are litigating your matter, social media posts made by your spouse or partner may be relevant, especially if they contradict what your spouse is claiming in his or her pleadings.

For example, if a spouse is claiming financial hardship, a Facebook post that shows that spouse going on an expensive trip or posing with an expensive car can undermine such claim  and, potentially affect that party’s credibility in court if presented as evidence on a motion or at trial.

Further to photograph-based posts, statements that are made on social media by one party can be relevant if said posts (i) are related to the litigation, to issues of parenting  and/or (b) they contradict statements that were made by the party in his or her pleadings. For example, if a party who is attempting to establish that he or she is an appropriate custodial parent, then recent social media posts about extensive partying and drug use made by that party may be relevant in court, as they may speak to that party’s fitness when it comes to appropriate supervision of a child in his or her care.

The Ontario Attorney General’s website estimates that divorce proceedings can take approximately four to six months to complete, provided that all documents have been appropriately accomplished and submitted on time.

No. The law does not favour mothers over fathers in divorce proceedings. The judge will base his decision on the evidence laid out by both parties.

The main distinction between divorce and separation is that divorce ends your marriage formally. You and your partner are no longer married.
If you’re separated, you’re still legally married to each other even if you receive a formal separation, and you must continue to record that you’re married on documents.

No. You are not required to get a lawyer for a divorce. However, it is best if you retain one to ensure that you fully understand all your rights and obligations.

A joint divorce application occurs when you and your spouse both agree to a divorce and on all other family law matters such as parenting, spousal support, or division of property.

Yes, it is different. Family law problems are addressed mainly by provincial laws in Ontario. Divorce law, on the other hand, is controlled by federal legislation in the form of the Divorce Act, which applies uniformly across the country.

Divorce can be a difficult decision to make, especially if you’re unsure if your partner will sign the petition. However, a divorce does not require your partner’s consent. Although it may be a long process if your partner doesn’t comply, they will not be able to stop you indefinitely.

Locations We Serve

Multiple offices to help serve you better

With numerous offices across Ontario, we make it easier for our clients to have access to our lawyers. Please note that offices marked with an (**) are satellite offices and require a consultation booked in advance. We are not able to accommodate walk-in appointments at these locations. Call us to book a free consultation today.

Still have family law questions?

Speak to a lawyer

If you need legal advice regarding divorce & separation matters in Ontario, contact our Toronto family law lawyers for a free consultation. Some conditions may apply.

Book Your Consult