Divorcing While Pregnant

Divorce is never easy—but it can be exponentially more difficult if one party is pregnant. How can women survive this period of vast physical and emotional change with the added impacts of divorce? It may not be easy, but it is, indeed, possible.

Why Couples Choose this Time to Divorce 

For many couples, pregnancy is a time to draw closer together as they anticipate a new little person in their lives.  Why would anyone want to divorce at this special time? The issues are as varied as the couples themselves:

• A discovery of infidelity;
• Domestic abuse;
• A rape that resulted in pregnancy made healing difficult;
• One partner did not want the baby in the first place;
• One partner believes the other tricked them into getting pregnant;
• Financial or other difficulties caused an escalation in fighting.

Is Divorce Legal During Pregnancy? 

In Florida, couples may file for divorce even if one person is pregnant, although it will not be finalized until after the birth of the baby. After the birth, a paternity test will likely be given in order to make custody and support determinations. There is one exception to this rule: when the father of the baby is identified by the mother as someone other than the husband, and that man commits to supporting the unborn child in an affidavit.

How to Prepare? 

For mothers whose marriages are falling apart, it may be necessary to accept the fact that some days are simply going to be difficult.  What can you do to make things easier for yourself?

• Lean on friends and family as much as possible;
• Ensure safety for yourself and your child, especially if you have been a victim of domestic violence. Get the resources and legal advice you need;
• If you want to improve your relationship with your spouse, consider couple’s counseling, even if your goal is not necessarily to reunite. Remember, this person will likely be involved in your and your child’s life for a long time ahead;
• Join a support group, or read a self-help book to stay focused on the positive;
• Find a way to manage your stress, like journaling, walking, water aerobics, singing, knitting or whatever floats your boat;
• Make plans to handle the financial status of being a single parent;
• Work with your ex to create a parenting plan that benefits your child;
• Give yourself permission to move on without guilt. This may be difficult, but if it’s good for you, it’s good for the baby. Hold your head high and go forward.

Get the Legal Help You Need 

Now, more than ever, it is essential to have an empathetic, but experienced and knowledgeable Boca Raton divorce attorney providing the legal guidance and support you need. At WiseLieberman, you can count on the professional help you need when you need it most. Contact our office for a confidential consultation today.