When your ex-spouse decides to re-marry, it can be challenging, to say the least. This is especially true if you share children or are/were providing financial support.
Facing these issues in Roanoke, or elsewhere in Virginia? Our family lawyers at Slovensky Law have you covered.
Here’s what you can do to handle your ex’s remarriage, both emotionally and logistically.
1.) Cut emotional ties and accept your new place in your ex-spouse’s life.
While it may be difficult to do, it is important to cut emotional ties with your ex.
Recognize what you once shared, accept what went wrong, and move forward from a positive place.
This is especially important if you share children or run a business together.
Choosing happiness for your ex’s new life is always best, and, believe it or not, it will allow you to continue to pursue happiness in yours.
To stay in this positive place, make sure your attorney handles all communications regarding any matters about support to keep the personal and professional aspects of your past lives separate.
2.) Maintain a positive co-parenting relationship for the sake of your children.
No matter what, your children and the responsibility you and your ex have to them come first.
As such, you must maintain a good working relationship with your ex for the sake of being able to manage the care and upbringing of your children. This means helping to view the re-marriage as a positive – and working with your children to foster a sense of family.
Some exes choose to meet with and develop a cordial relationship with the new spouse, while some surprisingly find ways to become good friends.
This all benefits the children, and their happiness and well-being is the ultimate goal.
3.) Determine if any changes need to be made to your custody agreement or child support arrangement.
Remarriage in and of itself does not mean that a custody agreement or child support arrangement needs to change. However, if other circumstances have changed due to the marriage, you can file a motion to modify your current agreement.
In Roanoke, Virginia, you can change your custody or support agreement if material circumstances change, such as the relocation of your ex-spouse.
It’s important to know, if you are receiving child support, your spouse may also request adjustments if there is a new child.
Income sources that are considered include:
- Salaries, wages, and commissions
- Dividends, interest, and capital gains
- Pensions and annuities
- Spousal support
- Gifts, prizes, or awards, and
- Social Security benefits, unemployment insurance, disability payments, and workers’ compensation
Slovensky Law is experienced in helping divorced couples handle these matters and can advise you.
4.) Speak with your attorney about monthly and periodic alimony payment arrangements.
More often than not, monthly and periodic alimony (or spousal support) payments end once an ex-spouse remarries.
Lump sum payments, however, that you and your ex agreed to within the divorce settlement, are still required to be paid.
If you live in Roanoke, Virginia, Slovensky Law can help you navigate this process to ensure your interests – and your children’s interests – are protected once your ex-spouse remarries.
