Divorce and Pregnancy

Sometimes, in the midst of divorce, the unexpected can happen. Some couples find themselves having to deal with an unplanned pregnancy during a divorce. Although some couples may choose to terminate the pregnancy, others decide to continue with the pregnancy. Depending on the situation surrounding the divorce, the pregnancy, and the wants and needs of each partner, different divorcing couples take different actions in the event of a pregnancy.

• Some couples postpone the divorce until the baby is born. Some people decide that it is in the best interest of the child and the mother to withhold divorce proceedings until after the baby has been born. After this time, the couple continues with the divorce and discusses custody, child support, and visitation issues.
• Some couples reconsider divorce and choose to try to make their marriage work. The prospect of a new baby sometimes makes couples reconsider their divorce and take steps to work together for the benefit of the child. Often, these couples choose marriage counseling to help them solve their issues.
• Some couples continue with the divorce throughout the pregnancy and include child support and visitation issues in their final settlement. Sometimes, both parents want to be a part of the child's life, whereas in other situations, one parent may want only pay child support and separate themselves completely from the child's life.

No matter the final outcome, couples who discover that they are pregnant during divorce proceedings should seriously discuss their options and the effects of their decisions on the child's future.

Contact Us

If you become pregnant during divorce or decide to divorce during a pregnancy, a knowledgeable Raleigh divorce attorney can discuss with you your legal options and help you throughout this difficult time. To learn more, contact the offices of Marshall & Taylor, P.C. at 919-833-1040.