Chapter 4 The Hardest Part: Is My Marriage Really Over?

• Library: Divorce & Money (Nolo) (2020 Ed.)

CHAPTER 4: The Hardest Part: Is My Marriage Really Over?

Legally, a final decree from the court marks the termination of your married life.

Emotionally, it may be years before you feel complete peace of mind about the end of your marriage. But from a strictly financial standpoint, the marriage ends when you or your spouse begin to take unilateral actions without considering the effect on the other person.

It's that moment when one spouse stops acting like a trusted friend or partner and starts putting the other spouse in economic jeopardy. One spouse might empty a bank account, leaving the other with nothing to pay the bills or hire an attorney. Or a soon-to-be ex might run up joint debts unbeknownst to the other.

A great deal of financial damage can take place in the early stages of divorce. You must protect your interests whether or not you feel sure the marriage is over.

Couples often go through several phases of splitting up and getting back together before the final break. While you are going through this push and pull of separation, you may find yourself walking a tightrope between conflicting demands and emotions—watching out for your personal property without antagonizing your spouse, or taking care of your individual needs while not...