US Legal Forms
Legal Resources
Questions & Answers
Divorce
Can we date other people during our separation in Virginia?

Can we date other people during our separation in Virginia?

Q: What happens if you apply for an apartment and change your mind?

If you change your mind after applying for an apartment, you should inform the landlord immediately. Depending on the timing and the lease terms, you may lose any application fees or deposits. It's important to check the rental agreement for specific policies regarding cancellations.

Q: Can you decline an apartment after being approved?

Yes, you can decline an apartment after being approved. However, you should communicate your decision to the landlord promptly. Be aware that you may forfeit any application fees or deposits, depending on the terms of your agreement.

Q: What is abandonment in rental?

Abandonment in rental occurs when a tenant leaves the rental property without notice and with no intention of returning. In Virginia, if a tenant abandons the property, the landlord may have the right to terminate the lease and re-rent the unit. It's important to follow legal procedures for eviction if necessary.

Q: What makes a rental agreement void?

A rental agreement can be void if it involves illegal terms, such as prohibiting tenants from exercising their legal rights or if it was signed under duress or fraud. Additionally, if the property is uninhabitable or violates local housing codes, the agreement may also be considered void.

Full question:

After trying counseling, etc. We decided to separate. I moved into a Virginia rental apt. ( signed lease) and my two teenage sons live with their dad in another Va community nearby. I see the boys frequently and our separation is very amicable. We have a signed, notarized PSA . In Va., it was explained that we need to be separated one year before filing for divorce. Are 'Sam' and I allowed to date other people until that year is up and divorce filing can occur? (Also- FYI...I am paying spousal support to him in addition to paying my own rent b/c my name is still on the mortgage associated with the property where he and our sons live and he cannot manage that without my contribution.)

Category: Divorce
Subcategory: Legal Separation
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Virginia

Answer:

If you are legally separated in Virginia, you are still married and can technically date other people. However, dating could be considered adultery, which is a ground for divorce in Virginia. Adultery can impact alimony and the division of marital property during divorce proceedings.

According to Virginia law, the court will consider several factors when determining property division and alimony, including the circumstances leading to the divorce and any contributions made by each party. It is essential to be aware that any actions taken during the separation period could influence these decisions.

For more specific legal advice tailored to your situation, consider consulting with a family law attorney.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Can you change your mind if you get approved for an apartment?

Yes, you can change your mind after being approved for an apartment. However, it's essential to notify the landlord or property management as soon as possible. Depending on the lease agreement, you may be responsible for any fees or deposits already paid. Always review the terms of your application to understand any potential financial implications.

What are the Virginia tenant rights?

In Virginia, tenants have several rights, including the right to a habitable living environment, the right to privacy, and protection against retaliatory eviction. Landlords must provide proper notice before entering the property and cannot evict tenants without following legal procedures. Tenants also have the right to withhold rent if the landlord fails to make necessary repairs.