When you and your spouse decide to divorce, you might assume that one of you will be moving out of your shared home. However, that’s not always possible. Whether you decide to continue living together for financial reasons, childcare arrangements, or any other purpose, the situation can be challenging for everyone involved. To prevent misunderstandings and conflict, set some ground rules with the help of your lawyer.

How to Successfully Cohabitate During Divorce

1. Make a Financial Plan

Deciding who pays for what, and how bills will be paid, is one of the first steps. Financial disagreements are likely to be a significant source of tension, so work with your lawyer to come up with a written plan. This could mean splitting certain expenses 50-50, or one spouse paying a larger share with the understanding that it'll be taken into account when assets are later distributed.

2. Set Romantic Ground Rules

Moving on after a divorce means dating and new relationships. However, bringing a new person home while you're still living with your former spouse can be awkward. Agree that neither of you will bring romantic partners home during the duration of your living arrangement.

3. Create a Calendar of Responsibilities

Determining who will be responsible for certain activities, such as making dinner or putting the kids to bed, can eliminate conflict. Setting and keeping a schedule helps your children maintain a sense of normalcy and stability. Even if you don't have kids, establishing a routine will prevent you from feeling like you don't have any personal space.

4. Be Considerate

Even if you're angry or hurt about the divorce, be considerate and respectful of your former spouse. It sets a good example for your children, and can also prevent disagreements and frustrations about little annoyances that could evolve into huge blowups. 

5. Communicate

Successful cohabitation during divorce requires communication. Set expectations about how you'll communicate, and commit to being polite, direct, and non-emotional in your discussions. Communicating with respect and congeniality sets a good example for your kids, and reduces conflict that'll make your arrangement more difficult.

Cohabitating during or after a divorce is challenging, but with the help of an experienced lawyer, you can make it work. For over 20 years, The Law Office and Mediation Center of Jeannine M. Talbot has helped couples in the Torrington, CT, area reach mutually acceptable agreements. Visit her online to learn more about her services, or call (860) 482-9004 to schedule an initial consultation.