Is Financial Irresponsibility Grounds for Divorce in New York?

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When you and your spouse get married, you may be excited to start this new chapter in your life. However, you may be displeased to find that you and your spouse are not on the same page financially. Whether they spend on pricey hobbies they quickly abandon or do not use judgment when it comes to making big-ticket purchases, this can cause significant issues. Despite doing everything possible to change their ways, their financial irresponsibility has grown too severe, and now they are considering divorce. The following blog explores what you must know about these circumstances and how divorce attorneys in Nassau County can assist you through these challenging times.

How Can Financial Irresponsibility Impact a Marriage?

Unfortunately, financial issues and differences between spouses can cause a number of problems between spouses. Generally, when one spouse racks up debt or constantly spends while the other is more focused on saving, this can cause resentment and tension.

For example, if you and your spouse are attempting to save for a home, but they are constantly going out to gamble or spending money on expensive vacations without discussing you at first, it can be the catalyst for the breakdown of your marriage.

Is This Grounds for Divorce in New York?

In general, you cannot cite”financial irresponsibility” as the grounds for divorce when you file. In New York, there are only certain behaviors and reasons that constitute a “fault-based” divorce, such as adultery, inhumane treatment, and imprisonment. However, this does not mean you must remain in an unhappy marriage with your spouse.

When financial issues are the cause of your divorce, you can file on the grounds of an irretrievable breakdown of your marriage. Generally, this means you are unable to repair your relationship, and it has suffered immensely. This is the reason most people provide when separating from their spouse.

How Can an Attorney Assist Me During This Process?

If you are considering a divorce due to your spouse’s financial irresponsibility, it’s vital to have an attorney to help you through this process.

When going through a divorce with your spouse, you may want to hide assets or limit your spouse’s access. However, you must understand that hiding marital assets during a divorce can be held against you during this time. As such, your attorney can assist you through this process to help you receive compensation for the assets your spouse took in the months leading up to your divorce.

At Barrows Levy PLLC, our team is committed to helping you through the complexities of divorce. Our firm is dedicated to helping you through this process to fight for the best possible outcome for your circumstances. Contact our office today to learn how we can assist you.

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