Dishonesty that is discovered during a marriage is one of the leading causes for divorce cited by those participating in post-divorce research studies. A spouse who has lied either verbally or through an action makes it difficult for some to continue with a relationship. Lack of trust makes it impossible for some to live with, work with, and raise children with a person whom they feel is unreliable. Depending on the type or timing of the lie, it is possible that dishonesty can negatively impact children, other relatives, and legal aspects of the marriage. If you or someone close to you has caught a spouse in one or more lies, being aware of options for those who marry a dishonest spouse can aid your attempts to move forward.

Revise or Discard Prenuptial Agreements

Marriages in the United States are taking place later in life for the average adult. After establishing a career or starting a business, an adult may decide to utilize a prenuptial agreement in order to protect current or future assets. Dishonesty that occurs prior to the marriage involving financial assets can affect the legality of your prenuptial agreement. A spouse who fails to completely disclose income, liabilities, and assets may find an agreement rendered invalid because of those actions. Once dishonesty is discovered, you can consider discarding the agreement (after consulting with an attorney) or discuss revising it should the marriage continue.

Mediation and Counseling

Counseling during marriage provides both parties with a way to discuss their feelings about a perceived betrayal and determine how best to move forward. The assistance of a trained mediator increases your chances of having a conversation that stays on track instead of devolving into an argument. A mediator is especially useful in situations where one or both partners have difficulty expressing their feelings or emotions verbally without becoming frustrated. Dishonesty in a relationship impacts both parties and without clear communication that acknowledges the seriousness of the situation, it is difficult for the relationship to recover fully.

Separation

Taking a break after discovering dishonesty is something a large percentage of married couples admit to doing at some point in their relationships. A physical separation could be as formal as one party vacating the marital home or as simple as one party moving to another room within the couple’s home. The period of part gives both adults a chance to decide what choice is best for them and it may eventually lead to an annulment or divorce. Remember, as long as a couple is legally married, neither party can remarry, and if your spouse obtains new debt while still married, you may be held accountable for paying that debt by the creditor.

Deciding What is Best

The choice that you make ultimately depends on your legal and financial needs. Talking to a family law attorney about your marital problem is the best way to decide how to proceed. An attorney can explain the legal ramifications of your choices, allowing you to make a decision that most benefits you in the long term. Contact the attorneys at Vayman & Teitelbaum today to schedule a consultation to discuss your options. Located throughout the Atlanta metro area we are ready to give you legal advice that focuses on your unique situation.