New Boyfriends and Girlfriends: The Legal Cost to You

New Boyfriends and Girlfriends:  Stay Out or Pay Out!

When it comes to custody, support, divorce and dissolution, new boyfriends and girlfriends only complicate and impede the legal process.  Many new significant others are ready to come to your defense and help you show your ex the big mistake they made, but this can cost you in the long run.

New boyfriends and girlfriends are not considered a party to the case by the court, no matter their outside court involvement.  They may not come into the courtroom, or participate in settlement conferences.  Your attorney must receive your decisions on your case from you, not from your new significant other.

When new boyfriends and girlfriends come to court with you, it usually only complicates the matter.  I have seen cases at the point of complete settlement, but when another party brings their new love interest to court, the other party decides they want to litigate the entire matter.  Litigating a divorce without prior settlement can cause your legal costs to skyrocket.  A final divorce hearing, without prior settlement can last up to a day or more, with you paying your attorney their hourly fee.

Remember to thank new boyfriends and girlfriends for their support, but ask them to stay at home for the best outcome in your case.  If you are considering divorce, contact me to schedule a free in-office or telephone consultation today!  Attorney Jamie L. Anderson, the Ohio Divorce Attorney at (937)897-9542.