Should You Move Out During Divorce? What to Know Before Leaving the House

In this episode of Irretrievable Breakdown: All Things Divorce, Matt Dolan and Nicole Bikakis of Dolan Divorce Lawyers, PLLC discuss one of the most common questions people face during a Connecticut divorce: Should you stay in the house or move out while your divorce is pending?Moving out during divorce can feel like the easiest way to reduce stress, avoid conflict, or create space. But before leaving the marital home, it is important to understand how that decision may affect custody, parenting time, marital home equity, property division, financial obligations, temporary orders, and your ability to keep the house after divorce.Matt and Nicole explain why both spouses generally have the right to remain in the marital home while a divorce is pending unless there is a court order saying otherwise. They also discuss why changing the locks, forcing a spouse out, or making the home unbearable can create serious legal problems.This episode also covers how moving out may impact child custody in Connecticut, especially if there is no written parenting plan or court order in place. If you want shared parenting time, primary physical custody, or the ability to keep the marital home after divorce, moving out too soon can create a new status quo that may affect your case.Listeners will also learn about the financial side of leaving the house during divorce, including mortgage payments, utilities, household expenses, automatic orders, renting a second home, and why it is important to have a financial plan before moving out.Matt and Nicole also discuss important exceptions involving domestic violence, safety concerns, restraining orders, exclusive use of the marital home, and emotional well-being. In some cases, moving out may be the safest or healthiest option, but it should be done carefully and with legal advice.Whether you are considering divorce, already in the divorce process, worried about custody, or unsure whether to leave the marital home, this episode offers practical guidance on what to consider before making a major decision.Learn more about Dolan Divorce Lawyers, PLLC:Website: https://dolanfamilylaw.com/Contact: https://dolanfamilylaw.com/contact-us/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dolandivorcelawyerspllc7203Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dolanfamilylaw/This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Listening to this podcast does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, contact a qualified family law attorney.