Couples who are not legally married or who are married but not yet ready to file for a divorce often separate. The separation can be as informal as moving to another room within a shared residence or as serious as moving out of the house entirely. This period of uncertainty is stressful as both partners are unsure about what the future may hold financially or emotionally. Worry and frustration may lead to your partner making threats that are hard to ignore. Being aware of common threats made during separation makes it easier to cope with conflict in a situation that is already tense.

Financial Threats

Partners who provides most of the income in the household will often start making threats about money and finances. They may threaten to quit their job rather than pay alimony or say that they would prefer going to jail instead of paying child support. In some situations, they will even say that they will not give you any money unless you agree to do everything on their terms. These threats have a great deal of impact when their partners already unsure of how they will be able to afford groceries, pay utilities, or continue to live in their current homes after divorce.

Eviction Threats

Control over marital or shared property often becomes an issue during separations when neither partner wants to move. One party may begin making threats to evict the other, claiming that they will put their partner’s belongings outside, change the locks on the house, or get a security system. If only one person is on the lease or mortgage, that may encourage him or her to be even more forceful regarding threats to remove the other party from the home.

Physical Threats

Domestic violence is sometimes a catalyst for divorce, but there are times when physical violence does not occur until after the relationship has deteriorated to the point at which separation has occurred. An angry spouse or partner may use physical intimidation or abuse to force the other party to agree to demands or terms. In some cases, harassment in the form of social media threats or humiliation may occur. Obtaining an order of protection is an option that can keep you and your children safe from immediate harm by preventing further contact with an abusive spouse.

Protecting Yourself

Making sure you are legally and financially protected is vital during a serious dispute between yourself and your partner. A qualified family law attorney is able to provide you with advice and direction during this difficult period. An attorney can discuss the possibility and advisability of divorce with you, whether or not you will be able to obtain (or have to pay) alimony, and what to expect regarding child support obligations. The compassionate and aggressive attorneys at Vayman & Teitelbaum are able to provide you with the legal representation you need to protect your rights. Our attorneys understand the importance of having a dedicated advocate in your corner. Contact us today and schedule a consultation at one of our four Atlanta area offices so that we can begin discussing your unique situation.