The Pros and Cons of Cohabitation After Divorce in Florida

Cohabitating is a natural choice for many spouses after divorce. From a purely economic standpoint, living alongside someone else lowers your financial burden – a key concern for post-divorce stability. Cohabitation also occurs naturally as people explore new relationships and move on from failed marriages. With that being said, there are several pros and cons of cohabitation that spouses in Florida should become aware of as they approach post-divorce life – especially with the passing of a new divorce bill in the Sunshine State.

 What Is Cohabitation? 

Cohabitation is a fancy legal term that refers to two people living together. This might include someone living with:

• Parents
• Roommates
• Siblings
• Grandparents
• New romantic partners

In the context of divorce, cohabitation refers almost exclusively to new romantic partners. After a marriage ends, divorced spouses and new partners typically become financially codependent. This means that they may both contribute to the new household’s income, assets, and general upkeep.

 Pros of Cohabitation 

Cohabitation may be a smart choice after divorce, mostly because of the cost-sharing benefits. Statistics show that spouses (especially women) who cohabitate with new partners tend to experience better financial outcomes and overall stability. This makes sense, as those who cohabitate can share the cost of rent, groceries, fuel, and so on. From a purely emotional standpoint, cohabitation may also provide a sense of well-being and satisfaction after the turmoil of a divorce.

 Cons of Cohabitation 

Spouses must be aware of the downsides of cohabitation following divorce, especially after the passing of a new bill in Florida. Simply put, cohabitation may end alimony payments. The entire purpose of alimony is to provide financial support for spouses who find themselves alone and in dire economic straits following divorce. When a spouse cohabitates with someone new, these factors no longer exist.

If you begin cohabitating after your divorce, your spouse may immediately gather proof of this development and file a petition for the modification of the alimony agreement. Therefore, you must do the math and determine whether cohabitation is truly in your financial best interests. If the cost of losing alimony outweighs the cost of living alone, you may wish to maintain a separate residence from your new partner to continue receiving alimony.

 Speak with a Qualified Divorce Attorney in Florida Today 

If you’ve been searching for a qualified, experienced Orlando divorce attorney, look no further than Steve Marsee, P.A. We are well aware of the implications associated with cohabitation, especially given Florida’s new divorce bill. The specific effects of cohabitation may vary depending on your unique circumstances, and it makes sense to discuss these circumstances alongside a divorce attorney. Book your consultation today to determine the most appropriate course of legal action.

Sources: 

floridabar.org/the-florida-bar-news/gov-desantis-signs-alimony-reform-measure/

pewresearch.org/social-trends/2019/11/06/marriage-and-cohabitation-in-the-u-s/