Crystal Wright | November 22, 2024 | Divorce
An affair is a significant breach of trust that can lead some couples to divorce. Studies suggest that anywhere between 20% and 40% of divorces happen because of one spouse’s cheating. Even for those couples who remain married after infidelity, the discovery of an affair often marks a significant turning point in the relationship that changes the marriage’s dynamic.
Learning that your partner is cheating on you is a traumatic experience for most people. However, knowing how to deal with a cheating partner appropriately can not only help you navigate this difficult time but also protect your legal interests.
3 Key Steps For Handling an Unfaithful Spouse
You may feel confused, hurt, and lost if you suspect your spouse is cheating on you. Following these three crucial steps can help you make better sense of your situation and safeguard your well-being.
1. Listen To Your Instincts
In the beginning, all you may have to suggest that your partner is being unfaithful is a feeling that something is “off” in your marriage. While it’s important not to jump to conclusions or accusations, consider whether your instincts may be telling you that looking into the matter could be worth your time.
2. Find Tangible Evidence That Your Spouse Is Cheating
The next step is to confirm or deny your suspicions by looking for evidence of infidelity.
Some common indications that your spouse may be unfaithful include:
- New or deepening emotional distance between you and your spouse
- Your spouse taking a new interest in their appearance
- New secretive behavior, such as not taking calls in your presence or hiding text messages from you
- Unexplained purchases and new spending behavior
It can be tempting to confront your spouse immediately upon discovering any objective evidence that supports your instincts. However, try to ensure that any signs you notice are not attributed to other causes first.
3. Speak With a Family Lawyer
After confirming your suspicions, you will want to discuss your legal options with an experienced family law attorney. Some people choose to confront their spouse directly, but this course of action can lead to negative consequences.
For example, your spouse could:
- Further conceal their activities, making it difficult to substantiate their activities
- Abscond with marital property or block you from accessing joint accounts
- File for divorce and obtain temporary child custody and other orders
- Become violent toward you or destructive toward marital property
Time is of the essence if you have reason to believe your spouse is cheating on you. You must be prepared that your spouse may file for divorce, even if you decide to try to work on your marriage. Your attorney can review these possibilities with you, help you identify your goals and priorities, and take legal action to protect you.
Moving Forward After Infidelity in Your Marriage
If you notice signs suggesting your spouse is unfaithful, it’s essential not to ignore them. Doing so can leave you at a disadvantage if your partner suddenly leaves you or files for divorce. Going over your fears, feelings, and evidence with an experienced Lawrenceville divorce lawyer can give you a valuable and objective perspective.
Trust your intuition, and if you suspect there is cheating, look for some of the telltale signs of infidelity. If you still believe your partner is cheating after further consideration, visiting with a knowledgeable and qualified divorce attorney to discuss your options may be worth your time. With a skilled legal advocate in your corner, you can find the best path forward after infidelity.
Contact an Experienced Georgia Divorce Attorney To Discuss Your Case
The duration of a family law matter in Georgia depends on various factors, including the type of case, the level of agreement between the parties, and court schedules. While some cases may resolve in a matter of weeks, others can take many months or even longer.
An experienced family lawyer can provide you with a more accurate timeline based on your specific situation.
We serve all through Lawrenceville, Georgia in Gwinnett County and its surrounding areas. Visit our law firm today at
Crystal Wright Law Lawrenceville
440 S. Perry Street, Suite 105
Lawrenceville, GA 30046
(404) 891-0134