There are few stronger feelings that one can experience than that of betrayal caused by an unfaithful spouse. Infidelity has always been a problem for married couples, and there seems to be no indication that things will ever really change. In fact, as technology continues to advance, new avenues and opportunities to cheat may only be making the situation worse for many couples. When you are faced with the reality of a cheating spouse, you will need to make some very difficult decisions. Ultimately, you will be forced to decide whether to try to overcome the infidelity or to cut your losses and pursue a divorce.

Repairing the Relationship

A growing number of marriage and relationship experts believe that cheating is typically more of a symptom than the cause of marital problems. Such beliefs are not meant to condone the unfaithful behavior, but merely to recognize that cheaters are often to trying to fill a need that is not being met in the marriage. If you have caught your spouse cheating, are you willing to work on finding the root of the problem and addressing it together? The road ahead will not be easy and, as you might expect, rebuilding your trust will take time, but anything less than full commitment to change by both spouses will probably not result in success.

Moving On

Depending on a number of other circumstantial variables, your spouse’s cheating may be the last straw, cementing your desire to end the marriage. Of course, you probably still love your spouse, but remaining married to him or her may not be beneficial to your long-term happiness or health. Divorce, while never easy, may be your only realistic option.

Cheating and Divorce

In Illinois, cheating is no longer considered grounds for divorce, as all fault-related divorce grounds were eliminated at the beginning of 2016. You may only file for divorce on the basis of irreconcilable differences, to which infidelity can certainly contribute. While a no-fault divorce does not assign responsibility or blame for the divorce, it also means you will not need to provide definitive proof of your spouse’s illicit activities. His or her behavior also cannot be considered by the court when dividing property, awarding spousal maintenance, or making arrangements for your children—unless the children are found to be in danger.

Talk to a Lawyer

If your spouse has cheated on you and you would like to know more about a divorce may affect your life and your children, contact an experienced Orland Park family law attorney. We will help you fully understand the possible implications of your decision, and will work closely with you in building the future you deserve. Call 708-518-8200 today for your free consultation.

Sources:

http://psychologytomorrowmagazine.com/alyssa-siegel-my-cheating-heart/

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+IV&ActID=2086&ChapterID=0&SeqStart=3800000&SeqEnd=5300000