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Consequences of Entering a Second Marriage


People always say we learn from our mistakes. It makes us wiser, stronger, or can also make us scared of certain consequences. Matters like divorce, which involve legal consequences will make us think twice again before considering another marriage. 

In the Texas Family Code, the first marriage is the only valid marriage. Any succeeding marriages are void unless the first one will be terminated by divorce.

Financial Pros and Cons

Pros: 

Life is easier when you share with someone your expenses. Investing seems to be not so difficult. Having a partner, especially when you have kids, will lighten your worries. Moreover, you become financially sensitive. You’ve learned from your previous relationship what has gone wrong and you apply it in your current situation. You learn to consider the financial needs of your partner and you also start to plan your finances together with him or her.

Cons:

One of the top factors affecting divorce is financial incapacity. Rising family expenses are usually the primary cause of misunderstandings of couples. Married life is a long process of adapting to the financial needs of each other. 

In Texas law, alimony is being given by one spouse to the supported spouse after divorce as ruled by the court. Do note, however, that the Texas Family Code provides that alimony will not continue if the supported spouse will remarry or even when that spouse cohabits with his or her new partner. 

Emotional Aspect

Pros: 

The experience that you have encountered in the past will give you emotional maturity. You will be able to understand what your partner needs. In addition, having a companion and building a family with someone you love lessens the burden that you feel. 

Cons: 

Your first divorce may have stressed you out. In some ways, this may have an effect on you. Trust Issues may occur. 

When you have children from the first marriage

Pros: 

The benefit of having a second partner when you already have kids is, first of all, financial stability. Although Texas Law states that child support should be provided by both parents, the support coming from your current partner is can sustain more effective. In addition, his or her physical presence makes you feel secure and motivated.

Cons:

The problem comes when your child does not cultivate a good relationship with your partner or vice versa. Several children tend to gradually move away from their parents when a 2nd family comes into the picture. Conflicts may arise between you and your ex-spouse involving your child.

What to do?

Prior to entering a new relationship, it is best to consult with your child first or even your ex-partner. Avoid misunderstanding that might result from miscommunication.

Know your new partner well. Talk to each other and apply the lessons from your past. Try your best to work it out with your second partner.

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Mr. Hutton is a Divorce and Custody Lawyer based out of Round Rock, TX. His background is with child psychology at Arizona State University where he received a B.S. in 2006, and he continued this by working with the Children’s Right’s Clinic at the University of Texas School of Law where he received his J.D. in 2009. Throughout his practice, he has been a strong proponent of utilizing modern technology to improve his practice and the representation of his clients. He currently is the technology chair of CAFA of Travis County and is committed to improving and modernizing the practice of law in Texas. If you have any questions you can contact him at timothy.hutton@austintexaslegal.com

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