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.