3 Things to Consider Before Getting Remarried in Illinois

 Posted on January 07, 2021 in Divorce

Finding a new romantic partner and planning a future together is an important step for many people after the stresses of a divorce, and it has the potential to enrich your life in many ways. However, a remarriage is usually not as simple as a first marriage, and there are important matters that you will need to consider before making the decision to move forward. Your remarriage will not only affect your life, but also the lives of your children and even your ex-spouse.

Important Considerations for a Remarriage

The choice to remarry after divorce is personal, and you and your new partner will certainly have your own considerations that factor into your decision. That said, the following three issues are likely to arise in many remarriages, so it is wise to keep them in mind.

1. The effects on spousal maintenance. In Illinois, spousal maintenance payments terminate if the receiving party gets remarried or starts living with a new partner. If you have been receiving spousal support, you should prepare for the effects on your finances when those payments are no longer available. If you are the paying party, however, you should be aware that you may still be expected to pay spousal support even after remarrying. 

2. The potential benefits of a prenuptial agreement. A prenuptial agreement may not have made sense for your first marriage, but as you prepare to remarry, you may have significantly greater assets accumulated throughout the course of your life and career. A prenuptial agreement can help you protect these assets during your next marriage, and it may help you to avoid some of the most difficult challenges you experienced during your divorce.

3. The impact on your children. Your children may take some time to warm up to the presence of a new partner in your life, and they may even resent the time and attention that you devote to your new spouse instead of them. Remarriage can also affect your children’s living arrangements and routine, which may necessitate an update to your parenting plan. In any case, it is important that you continue to prioritize your relationship with your children, and strive to foster a positive relationship between your children and their step-parent and any step-siblings.

Contact a Wheaton Family Law Attorney

As you prepare for your remarriage in Illinois, there are several issues that are worth careful consideration. The knowledgeable and dedicated DuPage County family lawyers at A. Traub & Associates can help you handle any legal matters, including a prenuptial agreement or parenting time modifications. Call us today at 630-426-0196 to learn more about what we can do for you and your family.

Sources:

https://www.verywellfamily.com/before-you-become-a-blended-family-2997577

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/075000050k510.htm

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2087&ChapterID=59