When Your Spouse Moves Out: Our Fort Lauderdale Divorce Lawyer Explains What To Do Next
Despite ongoing trouble in a marriage, it can still be devastating when your spouse moves out. One day, you’re sharing a home; the next, you’re facing new bills, an uncertain routine, and difficult questions about what comes next.
A spouse leaving the home doesn’t automatically mean the marriage is over, but it can create serious financial and legal challenges. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer explains common issues that often arise and the steps you should take immediately to protect your rights.
Common Issues That Often Arise After a Spouse Moves Out of Your Fort Lauderdale Home
Whether you and your spouse are just going through a rough patch or you are ready to file for a Fort Lauderdale divorce, dealing with the initial separation is rarely easy. In addition to any unresolved conflicts about ending your marriage, a spouse leaving the marital home can trigger confusion about finances, child-rearing, and legal obligations. Common issues that often arise include:
- Who pays the bills? Mortgage, rent, and utilities still need to be covered, even if one person leaves.
- What happens to the children? If you have children from the marriage, the absence of a clear time-sharing schedule can cause tension.
- How is personal property handled? Disputes often emerge over furniture, vehicles
Leaving the marital home doesn’t relinquish ownership. Under Section 61.075 of the Florida Statutes, each spouse has the right to their fair share of property and assets acquired during the marriage, including the marital home. Moving out doesn’t affect ownership rights, but it can impact future divorce settlements.
Protective Steps to Take Immediately When Your Spouse Moves Out
Are you separating with the hope of eventual reconciliation, or do you anticipate having to file for divorce in Broward County Family Court? In either case, take these steps to protect your rights and your financial interests in the marital home:
- Document everything. Record the date your spouse left, what property they took, and any financial changes that followed.
- Secure the home. Change passwords, gather important paperwork, and safeguard joint accounts.
- Create a temporary budget. Track expenses and note who’s paying what, as this information can help determine support.
- Establish parenting routines in writing. Even informal agreements about visits or overnights can prevent conflict later.
An experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer can help by requesting temporary orders for exclusive use of the family home, as well as for child time-sharing, child support, and alimony.
Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Divorce Lawyer To Discuss Your Next Steps
A separation brings uncertainty, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Vanessa L. Prieto Law Offices, we can help you understand your rights and prevent costly mistakes. To discuss your next steps, call or contact our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer online and request a confidential consultation today.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/0061.html
browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family
